The right to protest is an essential part of any democracy. Sadly, protest action in South Africa is increasingly synonymous with acts of violence, intimidation and the destruction of property. Blame for this trend rests largely with the authorities, who tend to only react and act when protests turn to unrest. However, union, student and political leaders that organise and lead these activities are also culpable. Unless a new way of protest emerges, and soon, individual, business and investor confidence will continue to decline.