In this episode of Conversations with Gabriel, Gabriel speaks to Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein about a serious new threat to religious freedom in South Africa.

The discussion focuses on the CRL Rights Commission and its Section 22 process, which critics argue could open the door to the state regulation of religious leaders and faith communities. Rabbi Goldstein explains what the CRL is, why it was created as a constitutional body to protect religious, cultural and linguistic communities, and why its current direction has alarmed many religious leaders.

The conversation looks at the CRL’s argument that regulation is needed to deal with abuse, fraud, and exploitation committed under the cover of religion. Rabbi Goldstein responds that these abuses are already crimes under South African law and should be dealt with by SAPS, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the courts. He argues that forcing religious leaders into a registration or approval system would threaten the freedom that allows churches, synagogues, mosques, and other faith communities to flourish. For Warren, religious leaders must be free to speak truth, morality, and conscience without needing permission from the state.

Gabriel and Rabbi Goldstein also discuss why South Africa’s strong faith communities are one of the country’s great sources of social strength, why freedom of religion must be protected, and why religious leaders across all traditions should speak out before this process gains momentum.