UWC condemns hate speech against researcher
Professor Robert Balfour called on media platforms to scrutinise commentary by the public, which provided hate speech and defamatory comment.
Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) said it strongly condemns the hate speech, personal attacks, and defamatory commentary directed at Dr Jean Redpath, a researcher at our Dullah Omar Institute.
This follows her recent contributions to the national debate on policing and public accountability.
Gasant Abarder, UWC’s Manager: Media and Marketing confirmed that no formal action would be taken at this stage when queried by the Cape Argus.
“The utterances were made on online platforms in the comment sections of reputable media houses, one in particular which has the largest audience for a news site in South Africa,” he explained.
Professor Robert Balfour, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of UWC called on media platforms to scrutinise commentary by the public, which provided hate speech and defamatory comment.
“Dr Redpath is a respected academic whose work is grounded in evidence, integrity, and a commitment to strengthening democratic institutions,” he said.
“Her analysis, published in reputable media outlets and shared through public platforms, forms part of a robust and necessary discourse in South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
“UWC affirms the right of its academics to express informed views without fear or favour. Academic freedom is a cornerstone of our institution and of any society that values truth, justice, and progress. Attempts to intimidate or silence scholars through online abuse threaten not only individual safety and dignity, but the very principles of open debate and intellectual inquiry.”
He indicated that while the University respects freedom of expression, it draws a clear line at hate speech, racism, misogyny, and personal threats.
“These are not expressions of opinion, they are acts of harm. UWC calls on media platforms and social networks to take greater responsibility in moderating comment sections and removing content that incites hatred or undermines public discourse,” he added.
“We stand firmly behind Dr Redpath and all members of our academic community who contribute to public life with courage and clarity. The University will continue to support its scholars and uphold the values of ethical leadership, academic excellence, and social justice.”
Jean Redpath, admitted as an attorney in 1998, joined Africa Criminal Justice Reform (ACJR) in September 2012 and her expertise lies in measuring criminal justice processes and assessing the impact of policy and law using both qualitative and quantitative research methods.