While 2024 was dubbed the “Year of Democracy” due to a record number of elections, true democracy extends far beyond the ballot box. This discussion will explore the rising threats to democracy in the SADC region, including shrinking civic space and human rights encroachments, as seen through the eyes of the youth. In March 2024, SAIIA consulted with young people aged 18-35 to capture their perspectives on the future of democracy, the role of civil society, and the state of human rights. The findings, which form the basis of a new SAIIA Special Report, reveal key concerns: a belief that governments need to do more to meet citizens’ needs, and an awareness of persistent human rights abuses in the region.
This webinar will present these insights and explore how greater solidarity between civil society organisations, coupled with the meaningful inclusion of youth in decision-making, can drive a more sustainable future for democratic governance. This event directly links to South Africa’s G20 presidency theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability, highlighting the crucial role of collaborative action in strengthening democracy across borders.
Speakers:
- Kristian Olsson Selerud, Deputy Head of Mission – Embassy of Sweden in Pretoria
- Isabel Bosman-Burnett, Researcher – SAIIA
- Nosipho Dube, Chatham House Common Futures Conversations member & Communications Officer – SAIIA
- Hope Dlamini, Youth & sustainable development advocate, Global Citizen Fellow and AU-EU chapter activist
- Ruth Kasanga, Youth Advisor – Embassy of Sweden in SA
- John P. Frinjuah, Programme Officer, Policy Influencing and Advocacy Unit – West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI)
#WeAskYOUth: Snippets from the democracy consultations
Watch the full series here.
We look forward to your attendance and participation in this webinar.