The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), in collaboration with Vision for Empowering Democracies through Action (VEDA Global), cordially invites you to a webinar,

‘Digital Democracy in Africa: Learning from India’s E-Voting Experience and South Africa’s Policy Debates’.

Join us for an insightful discussion on how technology can strengthen democratic participation across the African continent.

This webinar will explore India’s experience as the world’s largest democracy, where electronic voting machines have been successfully deployed for over two decades. India’s journey offers valuable lessons on voter education, system reliability, transparency, and bridging the urban–rural digital divide. Robust policy frameworks, phased implementation, and strong public communication have been key to building trust and participation.

As African countries, including South Africa, consider innovations in governance, digital tools present both opportunities and challenges. Electronic voting, online civic engagement platforms, and digital inclusion are reshaping how citizens interact with democratic systems. Yet questions remain around trust, access, security, and inclusivity—especially in diverse socio-political contexts.

The webinar will also examine the prospects of implementing electronic voting in South Africa and will bring together election management bodies, policymakers, civil society organisations, technologists, ICT innovators, students, academics, and all those interested in shaping Africa’s democratic future.

Key discussion points:

• How African nations can adapt global best practices in digital democracy
• Key electronic voting insights from India and South Africa
• Risks of exclusion and strategies for equitable participation
• Pathways to build citizen trust in digital democratic systems

Date: 8 October 2025

Time: 14:00-16h00

Venue: Online

Registration link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/EvXQZkaER56hOUgKNwsofA