Following the recent closure of a prominent bar and eatery in central Cape Town, Richard Gardiner discusses the current dynamics driving extortion in the city’s hospitality industry, the tactics used by the extortionists and why it is unlikely to change any time soon.
In recent years, South African politics have been characterised by corruption scandals, poor service delivery, and a population disillusioned by the socioeconomic benefits democracy has offered thus far. With the country facing a pressing need to pivot from its trajectory, Zaynab Hoosen explores key actions necessary for the new administration to strengthen…
Global power balances are shifting, with consequences for both nation-states and businesses. Tamsin Hunt and Asees Bajaj explore the growing fractures in the geopolitical landscape, and assess the sources of disruption that may trigger long-term change.
While organised crime is often thought to occur on the fringes of society, a combination of shifting trafficking routes, migration, and socio-economic challenges are increasingly facilitating gang rivalries that have driven brazen, often indiscriminate violence in tourist hubs and major urban centres, writes Erin Drake.
The recent release of generative artificial intelligence tools, together with increased user engagement with a proliferation of digital dating and payment platforms, have enhanced criminal opportunities and capabilities to carry out virtual scams, including extortion and fake kidnappings, writes Shannon Lorimer.
While increased global engagement with combating climate change and other environmental issues has driven governments and organisations to adopt more responsible commercial practices, activists continue to target those falling short. Yet, the emerging conflict between competing environmental, community and industry goals is set to spur tensions and…
2024 will play host to some 40 national elections across the globe. In such a standout election year, S-RM’s Strategic Intelligence team delves into the trends shaping the world of politics and their impact on key ballots in the US, South Africa, India and elsewhere.
So-called ‘construction mafias’ have long held sway over South Africa’s construction industry, often demanding a cut of any development project. Tamsin Hunt looks at how these groups operate, and whether government efforts and other recourse are effective in combatting these groups.
Attacks on members of the LGBTQIA+ community in Serbia and South Africa in 2023, as well as increasing anti-homosexuality and transgender legislation internationally, have raised fears of an increased targeting of sexual minorities. Jervin Naidoo considers the impact of these incidents on travel security.
The escalating energy crisis in South Africa has far-reaching consequences beyond the lengthening daily power outages. Tamsin Hunt investigates how electricity shortages, coupled with tariff increases, will drive civil unrest risks over the coming year.
Saif Islam explores emerging kidnapping trends in South Africa, Lebanon, and the Philippines, and provides an outlook on how the threat is likely to manifest over the coming year.
Organised criminal groups have proven resilient to challenges affecting the global commercial environment since the Covid-19 pandemic and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war. Such groups have exploited evolving technologies and growing industries to tighten their grip over illicit and licit markets. Erin Drake explores these dynamics, and their potential…