APRM and the Media: Getting the Story Right
The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) is a voluntary scheme established in 2003 to improve member states’ governance collectively and individually through following best practices and examples set by others.
New research collection: The Political Economy of Regional Integration in Africa
SAIIA and the European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM) have released a new set of short case studies that shed light on regional integration in Southern Africa – where it has worked well, where new thinking is underway, and what and who can drive concrete regional cooperation.
Peer Review Mechanism Gets Back to Business, But Stronger Participation at Heads of State Level Needed
The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), a voluntary African governance promotion tool, now boasts an unprecedented 34 member states, 17 of which have completed their first reviews. But a lack of political enthusiasm for it – especially by heads of state – is endangering its relevance and impact on governance.
The Green Economy and the BRICS Countries: Bringing Them Together
The ‘green economy’ has been around as a concept since the 1970s but gained relevance again in the wake of the global economic recession in 2009 as government leaders looked towards new economic opportunities through sustainable, equitable and resilient economic growth.
2014 African Mining Indaba: Address three key pressure points to improve mining outlook
The increasingly adversarial nature of labour relations is having a dampening effect on South Africa’s mining investment prospects. On the eve of the 2014 African Mining Indaba (3 to 6 February 2014), observers worried about the persistent labour crisis and its likely long-term effect on investor sentiment should pay attention to three key pressure points. In conjunction, they will determine the future viability of South Africa’s mining industry.
The OAU/AU at 50: Democratic Governance as a Precondition for a Sustainable African Future
The 50th anniversary of the African Union (AU), previously the Organisation for African Unity (OAU), in May 2013 provided a fitting moment for the continental body to reflect on its achievements, challenges and the way forward.
What will it take to break the impasse in mining strikes?
South Africans appear to have become accustomed to perpetual strike action, especially in the mining industry. It is an unhealthy sign of succumbing to the status quo, having relinquished faith that a solution is in fact possible.
BRICS’ Public Diplomacy and the Nuances of Soft Power
How effective are the BRICS in inspiring confidence in their public diplomacy? This question lies at the heart of their soft power.
Releasing the Prisoners from their Dilemma: How to Resolve Labour Tensions in South Africa’s Mining Sector
On 16 August 2012 South Africa was thrown into tumult as police opened fire with live ammunition on a crowd of striking mineworkers at Lonmin’s Marikana platinum mine, killing 34 people.
Ukraine: Choosing between the EU and Russia
On New Year’s Eve 2014 over 100,000 Ukrainians attempted to set the Guinness World Record for the largest number of people simultaneously singing their national anthem. While such activities normally symbolise national unity, Ukraine remains as divided as ever.