The extension of social protection to informal farm workers in South Africa

Abstract

Social protection is regarded as a means to alleviate poverty. It provides workers with protection against socio-economic risks. However, not all workers have access to social protection. An example is informal farm workers. These workers are prone to precarious working conditions which exposes them to hazardous chemicals, extreme weather conditions and intensive physical labour. However, many of these workers have limited access if any to social protection. This research paper explores the nature and characteristics of the informal economy within South Africa, with informal farm workers acting as reference for the research.