Cool Politics Café on Political Polarisation in South Africa

Описание: Polarisation is often described as a “hyper-problem” because once it takes hold, it makes resolving social conflict far more difficult. It splits society into opposing camps whose growing hostility can destabilise democracy itself. When division becomes so deep that compromise, legal resolution, or peaceful political transition are no longer acceptable, the consequences are severe. Political violence, loss of trust in public institutions, and declining support for democratic norms often follow. Research shows that toxic polarisation fuels government dysfunction, democratic erosion, and even gradual autocratization.

In South Africa, polarisation is rooted in the legacy of colonialism and apartheid, which entrenched racial hierarchies and social divides. More than 35 years into democracy, and despite significant efforts at redress, the country continues to face deep social, economic, and spatial inequalities. These unresolved structural challenges make reconciliation and inclusive development an ongoing struggle.

Watch this powerful conversation, moderated by Tsholofelo Nakedi, featuring an intergenerational panel of political actors and civil society leaders, including Mbali Ntuli, Zulaikha Patel, and Mavuso Msimang.

The Cool Politics Café is hosted by Democracy Works Foundation, in collaboration with Y20 South Africa.