CCMA Data Shows High Unfair Dismissal Rates and Unemployment Trends in South Africa
What happened
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) received nearly 200,000 referrals during the 2024/25 financial year, with unfair dismissals comprising 51% of all cases registered. Referrals rose by approximately 4,500 to 193,069 during the review period. The private security industry, which employs over 580,000 personnel, remains under scrutiny due to issues like the failure to remit provident fund, medical aid, and Unemployment Insurance Fund contributions.
From businessday.co.za
Why it matters
The high volume of referrals reflects widespread retrenchments driven by the low-growth economy and socioeconomic pressures. While 575 individuals were retrenched in the private security sector during the review period, the national unemployment rate remains high at 33.6%. This trend saw the number of unemployed people rise by 345,000 in the second quarter of 2026 to 8.5 million.
Labour Court reinforced a principle regarding dismissal on July 29, 2026.
From businessday.co.za
Who's involved
- Michael BagraimSouth African politician whose views on the labour market are discussed in the report.