Written by: Michael Swain, FOR SA
Article source: Supplied

Dear Friend,

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is pushing through two major instruments — the Pandemic Agreement (often called the “Pandemic Treaty”) and amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR). These are due to take effect from September 2025 and could significantly impact South Africa.

Here are the facts you need to know:

  • Power Shift to Geneva – The WHO Director-General will be able to declare a global health emergency, even if South Africa objects. While “recommendations” are technically non-binding, the political and financial pressure to comply could leave Pretoria with little real choice.

  • Threats to Constitutional Rights – Lockdowns, mandatory vaccines, and digital health passports could be imposed without any explicit protections for freedom of religion, conscience, or bodily autonomy. Faith communities risk again being among the first to close and last to reopen.

  • Free Speech at Risk – The agreements target “misinformation,” but provide no safeguards to protect legitimate scientific debate or religious dissent. Critical sermons or alternative expert opinions could be silenced.

  • South Africa Must Decide – Parliament must debate and approve these agreements before they become law. Our Constitution requires full transparency, public hearings, and protection of rights.

What can you do?
Stay informed. Share this with others. Contact your MP and call for proper debate in Parliament. Support organisations like FOR SA that work to ensure South Africa’s sovereignty and freedoms are not signed away.

📺 Watch our video for a full breakdown here:

For faith & freedom!,
MICHAEL SWAIN
Executive Director, Freedom of Religion South Africa (FOR SA)

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Date published: 27/08/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.

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