FOR SA stopped 'spy bill' threats to religious freedom!

Facts

‍The initial draft of the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill—dubbed the 'Spy Bill'—presented a severe threat to religious freedom in South Africa. Its vague and broad language left it wide open to potential misuse, even suggesting that religious institutions and leaders would require security vetting and clearance certificates to operate.

FOR SA worked tirelessly to prevent this overreach. We proposed critical amendments, engaged directly with the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee, and assisted thousands of concerned citizens in voicing their objections.

As a result of these efforts, many of FOR SA’s recommendations were accepted. The amended Bill now limits its focus to individuals and institutions that present genuine security risks, ensuring it no longer threatens religious freedom. Parliament has since passed the revised Bill, and it now awaits the President’s signature.

Without FOR SA's Involvement

‍Religious organisations could have been subject to invasive state monitoring, with religious leaders forced to undergo security vetting. This would have enabled the government to monitor their calls, finances, and social media activity. Those who did not pass the vetting process risked being shut down. This win shows the power of public involvement in shaping just laws.