Democracy & Citizenship

Democracy is a pillar of South African society, reflecting a powerful legacy of human rights, and citizen-led transformation. Yet, as seen globally, its strength is in its practice—not merely its structure. PUG believes that to understand democracy’s real impact, especially in South Africa’s urban spaces inhabited by extreme inequalities – from wealthy elites to  low-income communities, we need to examine both local and comparative practices of participatory democracy and participatory governance. By exploring democratic practices across diverse contexts, we can uncover new strategies to amplify citizens’ voices and promote governance models that prioritise dignity and social equity. In a country known for its Constitutional commitment to equality, we must continue to evaluate and refine our democratic practices, ensuring that all South Africans can experience the promise of democracy in both policy and daily life.