Today marks 30 years since South Africa adopted its Constitution — a document born out of intense negotiations, compromise, and the dream of a democratic future.

About this episode

The episode discusses the 30th anniversary of South Africa's Constitution and its significance in shaping democracy and protecting rights.

Today marks 30 years since South Africa adopted its Constitution — a document born out of intense negotiations, compromise, and the dream of a democratic future. Anchored by the Bill of Rights and inspired by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Constitution was crafted by the Constitutional Assembly under the leadership of Cyril Ramaphosa, years before he became President. Three decades later, it remains widely regarded as one of the most progressive constitutions in the world — protecting freedoms, shaping democracy, and defining the values of the nation. As South Africa reflects on this historic milestone, Speaker of Parliament Thoko Didiza joins us to unpack its legacy, relevance, and the challenges facing constitutional democracy today. Guest: Thoko Didiza: Speaker of Parliament  

People in this episode

Guest: Thoko Didiza

Topics covered

• South Africa
• Constitution
• democracy
• Bill of Rights
• human rights
• political history

Keywords

• Constitution
• South Africa
• democracy
• Bill of Rights
• Cyril Ramaphosa
• Thoko Didiza
• human rights
• political history

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Constitutional Assembly

Places: South Africa

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