Seminar: A citizen’s perspective on the rule of law - Democracy and elections in South Africa [21 February 2024]

The relationship between state institutions and citizens is under strain. Much has been written and said about ‘democratic backsliding’, the rise of populism, the tyranny of majorities, voter apathy, and other worrisome trends. Citizen confidence in democratic processes and the rule of law is declining globally and in Africa. At the same time, more than a third of the continent's countries, including South Africa, will hold national elections in 2024.

In this hybrid seminar, we examine democracy and the rule of law from a citizen’s perspective and explore the implications of the above-mentioned negative trends. We will discuss developments across the globe, and relate them to South Africa. The seminar brings together local and international experts, state institutions, civil society, and youth representatives to reimagine democracy and the rule of law from a citizen’s perspective.

Moderator:

• Prof Jaap de Visser: National Research Chair in Multilevel Government, Law & Development, Dullah Omar Institute

Speakers:

• Prof Henk Kummeling: Rector Magnificus, Distinguished University Professor, Utrecht University and Chairperson Staatscommissie Rechtsstaat (State Commission on the Rule of Law, Netherlands)
• Prof Cherrel Africa: Associate Professor, Department of Political Studies, UWC
• Mr Michael Hendrickse: Western Cape Provincial Electoral Officer, IEC

Click HERE to register for in-person participation (School of Public Health Room 1F, UWC)

Click HERE to register for virtual participation

Following registration, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the seminar online.