Digital platforms and political communication: the South African laboratory

Abstract

Digital platforms and political communication: the South African laboratory – This essay examines the regulation of political communication on digital platforms within the South African constitutional framework. It analyses the interplay between freedom of expression, privacy, access to information and electoral integrity, with particular attention to social media, digital campaigning and the conduct of public office-holders online. By assessing constitutional provisions, statutory instruments and emerging practices of co-regulation, the paper highlights the opportunities and risks posed by digital technologies for democratic governance. The South African experience is ultimately framed as a constitutional laboratory, seeking to reconcile technological innovation with fundamental rights and the rule of law in a post-apartheid democracy.

Keywords: BRICS; South Africa; Political communication; Social media; Electoral campaigns