Abstract
LL.M. (Labour Law)
South Africa has made notable progress in broadening social assistance and expanding health care and social insurance since 1994. However, there is still more to be done if the social security system is to fully achieve its Constitutional requirements. The right of access to social security is entrenched as a fundamental right in the South African Constitution. A well-designed social security system diminishes risks associated with economic change or loss of work, and contributes to household income security and social cohesion. Whether funded by the voluntary or mandatory contributions, it shares risk amongst the vulnerable and the not so vulnerable workers, offering utmost protection to those that need it most and encouraging social solidarity. It also advocates for and complements employment objectives, labour market institutions and collective bargaining arrangements. Notable gaps in our social security system became conspicuous in the midst of the novel COVID-19 pandemic, as a number of discrepancies and shortfalls came into light as the provision of adequate social security to its citizens is a core function of the state. This minor dissertation is going to focus on the critical analysis of social insurance protection in South Africa during COVID-19. Further, the study will expatiate on the Unemployment Insurance Act, the Disaster Management Relief, social security and social assistance. The Corona virus has had an adverse impact on employment in South Africa. Most employers in SA, amid COVID-19, have been forced to shut down or dismiss employees. This had a negative bearing in the lives of employees both in the formal and informal sector which resulted to, amongst other problems, job losses, poverty and the disturbance in economic activities. Thus citizens had to turn to social insurance aid as recourse. This study will consider the position of social insurance and it efficacy to provide adequate protection to workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.