Reflecting on the past three decades and reclaiming a democracy from below

This year marks 30 years since the formalisation of South Africa’s democracy. A moment that was brought forth by popular and democratic forms of organisation in communities and workplaces. It was catalysed by the formation of student movements, the trade union movement, civic and faith-based organisations and communities that directly confronted the apartheid state.

The moment is remembered by our first democratic election in 1994 where political power was transitioned from one elite to another. The dawn of democracy brought the promise of a more just and equal society.

30 years later, millions are excluded from employment, housing, safe communities, access to water and electricity, quality education and health care, and enough food to live a decent life.

Our tradition of popular and democratic organisation evolved in various ways after 1994. Significant segments of the Black trade union movement were integrated into the governing ANC, while many social movements emerged to demand their constitutional rights.

However, as the social crises deepened and the state deepened its commitment to a failed economic project, society became largely demobilised. Further, many have abandoned trust in democratic institutions and have retreated to forms of narrow nationalism.

But, is the escalating social crises and the demobilisation of society a failure of the democratic system?

Is our democracy one that can work to benefit everyone, especially the excluded?

How do we use democracy to build on our tradition of popular and democratic forms of organisation effectively?

How can people use the next phase of our democracy effectively?

What are the possibilities of reclaiming democracy?

How do we reimagine a democracy from below?

To collectively discuss these and other questions, we will gather in October at the Women’s Jail to discuss this and other questions.

The Gathering

The Gathering will host members of social movements, trade unions, activists and academics at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg. The 2.5 day programme will include plenary sessions, workshops and roundtables where we will reflect on the past three decades and a reclaiming of a democracy from below.

Objectives

  • To critically reflect on the past 30 years of democracy
  • To facilitate how we think about democracy and power
  • To develop an understanding of the tools that democracy gives us to build people’s power
  • To bring together activists, social movements, trade unions and academics

Details

Dates: 1-3 October 2024

Venue: Women’s Jail, ConHill, Johannesburg