Professor Fiona Anciano, newly appointed Chair in Citizenship and Democracy at the University of the Western Cape. Image: Shelley Christians/UWCAt a time when democracy faces growing challenges both globally and in South Africa, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) has appointed Professor Fiona Anciano as the new Chair in Citizenship and Democracy.
Her appointment comes amid concerns over the health of South Africa’s democracy, especially after the lowest voter turnout since 1994, with a voter turnout rate of 58.6% in the 2024 general elections.
According to a well known academic in the research field of voter behaviour, elections and democratisation, Professor Collette Schulz-Herzenberg, “Voter turnout is regarded as a crucial indicator of the vitality and health of a democracy”.
And Prof Anciano agrees: “Democracy is in trouble.” Globally accepted norms of civic rights and participation are being challenged - not just in authoritarian states, but also in established democracies such as the United States.
Economic inequality, political polarisation, and misinformation are weakening trust in democratic institutions worldwide.
The newly appointed Chair shared her views with Institutional Advancement at UWC and believes that more civic engagement is crucial in improving the health of democracy.
What do you mean when you say democracy is in trouble?
“Democracy - as a belief system and as political practice - is not supported as strongly as it once was. People are disillusioned with it as a system of rule and as a way to address inequality. While South Africa too faces these challenges, it also has democratic strengths, an active civic culture, a world-renowned Constitution, and a history of democratic struggle. My goal is to explore how citizens (broadly conceived beyond legal categorisation) engage in democratic acts in everyday life, focusing on participation, social justice and accountability across society.”
How do we build democratic resilience amid growing disillusionment?
“Voting rates are falling globally and here at home. In the book Democracy Disconnected I co-authored, we argue, however, that the power of democracy extends beyond voting. Everyday acts, like following laws, paying taxes, participating in community meetings, or engaging respectfully in debate, are crucial. South Africans engage in many such acts - volunteering, mentoring, joining local committees. Both these ‘small acts’ and bigger actions like voting or protest are important to understanding democratic resilience.”
What role does UWC play in shaping democratic thinking in Africa and beyond?
“UWC has a proud history of not just studying democracy, but living it. From its activist roots to current initiatives like hosting a protective fellowship for Human Rights Defenders, the University contributes to important pan-African and global democratic conversations, especially as spaces for dissent shrink elsewhere.”
Why take on this role now?
“My career began in NGOs and has grown into academia. This Chair lets me combine teaching, research and practical impact. It’s also a chance to mentor future scholars and practitioners who will reflect on what democracy means today. The Chair supports postgraduate students and junior academics, building capacity for the future.”
UWC’s Research Chairs aim to create spaces for focused research, debate and mentorship. With Prof Anciano leading, the Chair in Citizenship and Democracy will examine critical questions about democratic resilience and nurture the next generation of leaders.
Her appointment signals UWC’s commitment to addressing democracy’s current challenges through research, teaching and encouraging everyday participation with citizens, students and community stakeholders.
Prof Anciano will hold the position until the end of May 2028.
