Understanding Defamation Laws in South Africa

When applied legitimately, defamation laws are intended to protect individuals and businesses against false statements that are harmful to their reputation. Yet both civil and criminal defamation laws have the potential to be misused to prevent open public debate.

This Guide provides journalists with a practical understanding of defamation laws and the steps they can take to mitigate defamation liability in South Africa. This awareness will empower journalists to understand their legal rights and obligations and continue to report on issues of vital public interest. The Guide covers the scope of defamation law, the criminal and civil process of cases in courts, the defences against defamation, sanctions against defamation, and practical steps to mitigate defamation liability. This was produced by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, with pro bono legal research provided by Bowmans South Africa.