Enhancing active citizenry engagement in South Africa

Abstract

The government of South Africa acknowledges that active citizen participation is a prerequisite for democracy and transformation. A core component of South Africa's Constitution is the commitment to ensure public participation in governance, aimed at giving effect to the principle of a representative and participatory democratic state, with Sections 59, 72 and 118 of the Constitution calling for public involvement in legislative processes. Central to the constitution are values of non-racialism, equality and protection of individual and societal rights. Significant evidence exists to suggest that there are substantial development gains to be achieved through enhancing active citizenship, foremost of which is its contribution to deepening democracy.