Democracy Unplugged

Democracy Unplugged brings together thought leaders, activists and influencers to untangle the threads of democratic principles, dissect current challenges, and envision what our future could hold.

In this episode we bring together political leaders and commentators for an unfiltered discussion on one of South Africa’s most…

As South Africa reflects on five decades since the Soweto Uprising, a critical question remains: have young people inherited freedom,…

South Africa’s informal economy is everywhere – from taxi ranks and pavement stalls to township salons and spaza shops. But…

What happens when one of the world’s most progressive constitutions collides with corruption, inequality and political dysfunction? In this week’s…

Following our previous education discussion, a clearer picture begins to emerge: one defined not just by underperformance, but by mounting…

South Africa is a young democracy, yet its voters are ageing while optimism continues to fade. Every election cycle raises…

What has 30 years of education reform in South Africa actually produced? For more than three decades, James Urdang has…

Who is responsible when service delivery stops working, and how do we fix it? Phumi Mashigo moderates this timely conversation…

Why are so many South Africans feeling politically disconnected right now? Lorato Tshenkeng joins Phumi Mashigo to explore the growing…

Nearly 30 years into democracy, why are housing rights still being fought for in court? Housing is a constitutional right…

South Africa’s proposed Tobacco Bill is meant to protect public health — but critics argue it could do the exact…

What do young South Africans really want from politics today? Recorded live at University of Johannesburg, Phumi Mashigo places students…