South Africans, let’s shape our future together

The National Dialogue is a citizen-led, non-partisan process to listen, solve, and rebuild, from ward to nation, everyone has a say.

About the National Dialogue

Thirty years into democracy, South Africa faces urgent challenges that demand an honest, inclusive conversation — one that leads beyond talk to real action. The National Dialogue brings together citizens, communities, sectors, and government in a people-centred, solutions-oriented process designed to create a shared vision and practical plan for the next three decades.

What this delivers

 A shared national vision and values

A People’s Compact and Plan of Action with clear responsibilities across society

Accountability and follow-through, not talk for its own sake

The process

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Convention Launch
Local and Sectoral Dialogues
Second Convention

How it unfolds

15–16 Aug 2025
Convention
First National Dialogue Convention

Agenda-setting, rules of engagement, and structure handovers.

To be confirmed
Dialogues
Ward & Sector

Thousands of local conversations, facilitated with toolkits and trauma-aware practice — in person and online.

To be confirmed
Dialogues
Nationwide input

In-room, radio, and via a dedicated app for digital submissions.

To be confirmed
Dialogues
Second National Dialogue Convention

Consolidation into a People’s Compact and implementation plan.

The purpose

We’re building a credible pathway to solve urgent problems, renew trust, and set out the South Africa we want — with all South Africans taking responsibility and ensuring accountability shared across government, business, labour, civil society, and communities. Outcomes feed a People’s Compact with citizen oversight.

Themes

career

Jobs & Dignity

A dynamic, inclusive economy with opportunities for youth, township enterprise, and decent work for all.

Crime & Corruption

Safer communities through practical solutions, accountability, and zero tolerance for corruption.

Education & Health

Quality learning, mental health support, and clinics that deliver real care.

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Fixing the State

Capable, transparent institutions with strong constitutional safeguards.

climate

Climate & Environment

Protecting natural resources, adapting to climate change, and ensuring environmental justice

Gender Equality

Equal rights, safety, and opportunity for women, men, and non-binary people.

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Innovation & Future Readiness

Technology, skills, and forward-looking policies to win the future.

core-values

Values & Social Fabric

Cohesion, healing, and shared ethics to strengthen the social fabric.

Get involved

Volunteer to run a dialogue


Contact us

Secretariat (NEDLAC): nationaldialogue@nedlac.org.za

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