An investigation into the impact of the Zimbabwe Special Permit on migrant Zimbabwean workers’ access to decent work in South Africa

Abstract: The introduction of the Zimbabwe Special Dispensation Permit (ZSP) was met with enthusiasm as migrant Zimbabwean workers anticipated further progress in their economic lives. The (ZSP) is the successor to a permit issued by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) named the Dispensation of Zimbabweans Project (DZP), which was implemented in April 2009. The ZSP was introduced in 2014 after the expiry of the (DZP). It is illegal in South Africa for employers to employ individuals without proper documentation. Some employers have taken advantage of the illegality of some of the Zimbabwean migrants by paying them lower wages since these workers cannot negotiate for better working conditions and remuneration for fear of being exposed to authorities. This study investigates the impact of the ZSP on migrant Zimbabwean workers through the lens of decent work. In examining the impact of the ZSP on attainment of decent work by migrant Zimbabwean workers, this study uses Harvey’s theory of “the logic of territory and the logic of capital”. The study also uses Standing’s notion of “the precariat”, to explain the working conditions of the Zimbabwean migrant workers. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. A total of eight migrant Zimbabwean workers were interviewed. Five of the participants were waitrons, one uber driver, one salon assistant and one social researcher. The findings of this study were that despite obtaining the ZSP, migrants still find their working conditions precarious. The study argues that the temporary measure by the South African government to regulate the stay of migrant Zimbabweans creates a docile workforce continually engaged in precarious work. The territorial logic covertly supports the capital by creating this compliant class. Conditions on the ZSP were fashioned in such a way that migrants are allowed to work and stay in South Africa but would never be able to obtain permanent citizenship. In this way, they are excluded from participating in some economic activities reserved for permanent residents.M.A. (Social Impact Assessment