South Africa’s Support for Democracy Hits Record Low of 36% – HSRC Study

A new study by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), commissioned by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), shows demand for democracy in South Africa has hit an all-time low of 36%. This comes from face-to-face interviews with citizens aged 16 and older across all provinces. The drop signals falling public confidence, driven by issues like corruption and unemployment, with 26% now open to non-democratic options—the highest in 25 years.

The HSRC study confirms a sharp decline in support for democracy. In the mid-2000s, 65% of South Africans backed it. Now, that figure stands at just 36% in 2026.

Researchers gathered data through in-person talks with people aged 16 and up in every province. This method helps capture real views from a wide group.

Dr. Ben Roberts, HSRC research director, highlighted a key concern.

Slightly over one in four people or 26% see non-democratic alternatives as acceptable in our country. This is the highest recorded level of the particular preference we’ve seen over the last quarter of a century.

These facts come straight from the HSRC and IEC reports.

The survey aims to track public confidence in democracy and voter turnout. It builds on past studies to spot trends over time.

Corruption and unemployment stand out as top issues eroding trust, as the survey notes. Back in the mid-2000s, support levels were much higher at 65%.

This context shows a steady slide in faith in democratic systems, all backed by HSRC data.

The findings point to real risks for South Africa’s democracy. A 26% openness to non-democratic paths marks the peak in 25 years of tracking.

Eroded trust from corruption and joblessness plays a big role. Here are key implications:

• Lower voter turnout could weaken elections and representation.
• Leaders may face harder times passing reforms amid public doubt.
• Rising frustration might fuel support for extreme political shifts.
• Long-term stability could suffer without steps to rebuild trust.

The study suggests these trends, based on verified data.

Near-term developments stay tied to ongoing monitoring. The HSRC and IEC plan to keep running voter surveys.

No major elections loom right away, but trends like these could shape future turnout. Any projections remain potential, drawn from current patterns.