South Africa’s enabling environment for civil society remains under strain despite strong constitutional protections. The formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) in 2024 raised concerns over participation, transparency and civil society engagement. Human rights defenders (HRDs) and whistleblowers have faced harassment, intimidation, reprisals, violence, surveillance and legal threats, while thousands of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) risk deregistration under the NPO Act.

Peaceful protests are frequently met with excessive force and online spaces are increasingly hostile due to infiltration by state and non-state actors. Despite these challenges, civil society continues to play a vital role in advancing social justice, with opportunities emerging through the National Dialogue and global platforms like the G20 and C20 taking place in South Africa in 2025.

Network Member:
Human Rights Institute of South Africa (HURISA)