Master of Laws (LLM) graduate Ms Fathima Docrat has been awarded her degree cum laude for a dissertation that critically examines the socio-economic implications of South Africa’s refugee policies – research hailed for its academic rigour and real-world impact.
Docrat’s dissertation, titled: “Analysing the Socio-Economic Implications of State Failure to Deliver on its Legal Obligations Towards Refugees: A Constitutional and International Law Perspective”, explores the intersection of South Africa’s constitutional obligations and international refugee law. Her work highlights the state’s systemic shortcomings in upholding the socio-economic rights of refugees – a vulnerable group often left without adequate legal protection or support structures.
‘My passion for this topic stems from a deep interest in the intersection of law, justice, and the protection of fundamental rights,’ she said. ‘Refugees arrive in South Africa facing enormous challenges, yet our legal framework often fails to treat them with the dignity and equality our Constitution promises.’
Supervised by Dr Janine Hicks and Ms Simone Gray, the research interrogates the broader implications of governmental inaction and its contribution to inequality and marginalisation. Chapter four of the dissertation explores innovative policy alternatives grounded in principles of dignity, equality, and access to justice, calling for a paradigm shift in the perception of refugees – from burden to rights-bearing individuals.
Docrat said her journey to academic success was inspired by a long-held dream of transitioning her legal career into academia. ‘I’ve always been drawn to the power of research to influence meaningful change, particularly in the field of human rights. This qualification offered the ideal platform to engage with critical legal issues and contribute to shaping future legal minds.’
Completing her LLM in a condensed one-year period, she made the deliberate decision to forego full-time employment in order to dedicate herself fully to her studies. ‘It was a challenging year filled with intensive coursework and many late nights, but it taught me resilience, focus and the value of sacrifice.’
The degree has already had a transformative effect on her career. She now lectures in Law and collaborates with volunteer and refugee organisations to support advocacy and research initiatives. She is also co-authoring academic papers in the field of Human Rights Law.
‘This qualification deepened my legal knowledge and sharpened my analytical skills. More importantly, it reminded me why I chose this path: to stand alongside marginalised communities and to contribute meaningfully to legal development and social justice.’
Her family, she says, has been an unwavering pillar of support. ‘They’ve stood by me throughout my journey and continue to be proud of everything I’ve achieved. Their belief in me is one of my greatest motivators.’ She is equally grateful to her supervisors; whose guidance and encouragement were instrumental to the success of her study. ‘This journey would not have been possible without their support and expertise,’ she added.
Docrat hopes to continue her work in public interest law, contributing to the advancement of refugee rights and constitutional accountability in South Africa.
Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
