While it may be a developing country in the eyes of many, South Africa is a country that protects the rights of its people Photo Goldrestuarant
South Africa – When the world looks for examples of freedom they usually turn their attention to the West or Europe. Those developed (first world countries) are normally seen as the standard for how rights and freedom are protected. However, it seems that South Africa, which is considered a developing (third world country) may be practising protection of rights in a far better way.
During this week, Moeshfieka Botha, a Consumer Debt Expert, was called by eNCA to share her insights on how the food sector might handle stage 8 loadshedding. At the close of the interview the eNCA presenter, Dan Moyane, wished her well for Ramadan. Soon after she took to Instagram to talk about the incident, proclaiming her love for South Africa while pointing out France’s hypocricasy. A country that is seen as a leader of the free world but has banned the hijab.
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While some may say this was something incidental, Botha believes it is anything but that. It is a sign of our country’s uniqueness, its people and the democracy that we enjoy.
“I think we are very often overwhelmed by the negativity coming our way through the various types of media, specifically on social media. South Africa has faced its challenges and is currently facing more challenges than what most think we should be facing but that does not take away from the beauty of the people of this country. It does not take away from the fact that people sacrificed and died for the democracy we now enjoy. That democracy also gives us the platform as Muslims to proudly display our religion.”
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Taking what we have in South Africa for granted
We often take a lot of things for granted in this country. We are quick to name the countless things wrong about the country like our life depends on it but there are so many good things. If we look towards the developed countries in Asia, we will find China. A country that is trying to eradicate not just the Uyghur Muslims but Chinese Christians as well.
If we look towards Europe, you will find countries that have banned the hijab and have made it virtually impossible for their population to practise Islam. Countries like the ‘Land of Liberty’ France, Austria and Denmark are the most Islamaphobic countries in the region, according to a report on Islamophobia in Europe. Botha called out France particularly because of their Islamophobic laws and the way the world views them.
“The global space often looks to France and other European countries as first world countries and South Africa as a lesser version of that. On the other hand if I look at France, they have been infringing upon [the rights of Muslims]. Also the fact that France does its very best to stop women from wearing hijab. That’s your first world country. That is now supposedly the standard that we should all aspire to be. Very honestly I would rather be in my lesser level country, for want of a better phrase, facing the difficulties.”
It seems that countries who are so called ‘first world’ and ‘developed’ haven’t developed the ability to treat people equally and with respect. While many may look down on South Africa, this country has proven that no matter what your race, creed or religion is, you will be respected and shown love.
