Youth Urged to Step Up as Leaders of Today to Shape South Africa’s Democracy

Young South Africans are being called upon to become active participants in the country’s democracy, not just as voters but as contributors to local governance and constitutional values. This call to action came during the Youth and the Constitution Dialogue, held at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Pretoria, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter under the theme: ‘Freedom in Our Hands: Youth Shaping Constitutional Democracy’.

The event brought together key voices from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), government, and civil society, all united in urging youth to take greater ownership of South Africa’s democratic future.

Youth Turnout Still Low, But Signs of Change

IEC Commissioner Janet Love acknowledged that while youth voter turnout has declined significantly since 1994, recent efforts to improve civic education and access have begun to bear fruit.

“There was a staggering rise of over 250% in voter registration among 18 to 19-year-olds for the 2024 elections,” Love said. “However, the base was low, and there’s still a long way to go.”

Love stressed that voting is just one part of a larger democratic picture. “You have to make your future. Otherwise, someone else will decide what it looks like.”

Participation Beyond the Ballot

Senzi Malaza, Senior Manager at the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, pointed out the limited youth involvement in Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) — a crucial avenue for influencing local government decisions.

“In rural areas especially, it’s mostly older people participating. Youth must bring their voices and ideas into these platforms to ensure their issues are addressed,” Malaza said.

When Protest Becomes the Only Voice

Chris Nissen from the South African Human Rights Commission highlighted that youth frustrations often result in protests rather than structured engagement.

“Many complaints we receive are driven by unemployment and poor service delivery,” said Nissen, referencing communities where untreated sewage floods the streets while authorities fund studies instead of solutions.

“It’s not normal to live like this — it degrades our people,” he said.

Young Leaders of Today, Not Tomorrow

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, closed the dialogue with a powerful reminder:

“Young leaders, you are not the leaders of tomorrow — you are the leaders of today. Your voice, your ideas, and your courage are needed now.”

He emphasized that progress depends on the collaboration between young people, government, and civil society.

“When youth engage, we ensure that South Africa’s future is built not just for them — but with them,” Nel said.

As the country reflects on 70 years since the Freedom Charter, it is clear that the next chapter of South Africa’s democracy depends heavily on the engagement, energy, and innovation of its young citizens.

{Source IOL}

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