The National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) is expected to be accessible to the public at the end of February. File Picture: Independent Newspapers Archives
The National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) is expected to be publicly accessible by the end of February, following years of advocacy from organisations working to combat gender-based violence and child abuse.
The announcement by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi has been received with both support and caution.
Kavya Swaminathan of the Tears Foundation acknowledged the potential benefits but also raised concerns.
“Public access to the NRSO could heighten general awareness of sexual offences and potentially encourage a greater sense of communal responsibility.”
“Despite the potential benefits, we do worry about the risk of misdirected ‘social justice’ being carried out against the wrong individuals, especially in cases where someone has been wrongfully accused or is in the process of appeal. Stigmatising listed offenders can also hinder rehabilitation efforts and complicate monitoring. In short, there is a fine line between public safety and unjust repercussions.”
She said the public has a right to know about potential threats, but offenders retain their rights, especially if they have served their sentences or are in rehabilitation.
She said rigorous checks before adding someone to the register and providing avenues for appeals are crucial for fairness and accuracy.
Sabrina Walter, founder of Women For Change, welcomed the public availability of the register, calling it a long-overdue step towards accountability.
“South Africa has struggled with accountability for too long; it’s one of the biggest challenges fuelling our GBVF pandemic. Perpetrators walk free; repeat offenders remain hidden, and survivors often feel silenced and powerless. The public availability of the register marks one of the most critical steps in protecting communities and strengthening accountability in South Africa.”
KZN Childline director Adeshini Naicker said that while it could help identify potential threats, it was insufficient as a standalone measure.
Naicker called for improved checks to prevent those with sexual offences convictions from holding positions that could endanger children.
“I also want to caution against any risk of people taking matters into their own hands or violating the privacy of those on the register.”
Action Society spokesperson Juanita du Preez said: “Until now, in South Africa, parents had no way to check if the people they trust with their children have a history of sexual crimes. That is going to change now. ”
“The publication of the register means that child predators, after their conviction, will be known to the public and will never again be in the position to work with children,” she said.