South Africa

Currently, over a third (35%) of registered South African voters feel that no political party fully aligns with their views and opinions. This sentiment poses a significant challenge for voters as they grapple with their party choices in the upcoming national and provincial elections.

Looking at possible turnout scenarios, a lower voter turnout is definitely to the benefit of the ANC, as reported in previous Ipsos press releases about this topic. In fact, turnout will probably be the key variable in the election on 29 May 2024.

As South Africa approaches the 2024 national and provincial elections, the nation finds itself at a crossroads. With voter discontent on the rise, shifting political alliances, and the historic inclusion of independent candidates, the uncertainty and desire for change that define the current landscape harken back to the pivotal 1994 elections, making this a crucial moment for South Africans to shape their country's future yet again.

The year 2024 is notable for the large number of national elections planned worldwide. Seven out of the ten most populous countries will go to the polls during this year, namely Bangladesh, India, United States of America, Indonesia, Pakistan, Russia, and Mexico, with the result that almost half of the world’s inhabitants will have the opportunity to play a role in selecting the leadership of their countries going forward.

Young South African adults do very well when it comes to being able to understand different languages, especially English that is seen as a lingua franca among them – no doubt fuelled by the important role played by English in using either a mobile phone or the internet.