The UN played a pivotal role in strengthening democratic governance by training 300 domestic observers and launching the #WeAreVoting campaign, which mobilized over 100,000 youth. In collaboration with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and media practitioners, the UN addressed mis- and disinformation in the electoral process and promoted civic engagement through a comprehensive legal assistance framework for asylum seekers, while also advancing social cohesion initiatives.

The UN played a pivotal role in strengthening democratic governance by accompanying closely the national elections of May 2024 with a bespoke team that provided, with increasing frequency, in-depth analysis of election-related political developments as election day approached and the formation of the GNU in the elections’ aftermath. This high-level activity was coupled with practical support on the ground to ensure greater voter’s participation and a peaceful and orderly process, by training and preparing over 600 domestic observers and implementing the #WeAreVoting campaign, which mobilized over 100,000 youth. In collaboration with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and media practitioners, the UN addressed mis- and disinformation in the electoral process and promoted civic engagement through a comprehensive legal assistance framework for asylum seekers, while also advancing social cohesion initiatives.

In partnership with the Department of Health, the UN supported planning for the Fourth South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS) using 2022 Census data. Collaboration with Statistics South Africa resulted in the completion of the e-Census Handbook and the Leaving No One Behind Framework, aimed at addressing disparities in SRHR, HIV, gender, and youth outcomes. To strengthen local governance, 152 public servants across 44 districts in Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo were trained in evidence-based planning for Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), with a focus on demographic dividend indicators to inform strategic decision-making.

Through a collaboration with the University of Cape Town, the UN launched the Senior Executive Leadership Programme, a year-long initiative enhancing the capacity, independence, and integrity of anti-corruption bodies. Key participants included the Public Protector, Director General of Public Service and Administration, and senior officials from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Public Service Commission, and Public Protector’s Office.

With technical and financial support from the UN, the Public Service Commission advanced the Professionalisation Framework, successfully embed ding it into the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP). This strategic integration aims to enhance public service efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs. 

The UN partnered with the National Prosecuting Authority to build the investigative and prosecutorial capacity of prosecutors addressing environ mental crimes. Tailored training sessions improved understanding of national legislation and contributed to better-quality dockets and improved court out comes. 

To combat crime in the fisheries sector, the UN conducted a comprehensive value chain analysis, mapping key actors and identifying vulnerabilities to inform targeted anti-crime interventions. This laid the foundation for a more coordinated, systemic response to illegal activities in the sector. 

The UN significantly supported the Refugee Appeals Authority of South Africa in addressing a backlog of 130,000 asylum appeals, funding 10 quasi-judicial staff and increasing productivity by 15% through improved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 

Additional efforts included advancing community communication, legal advocacy, and joint actions with the Minister of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority. These efforts have helped reduce litigation costs—currently at ZAR 500 million—and enhanced access to justice for refugees and asylum seekers, strengthening the asylum system amid a dynamic political context.