CPD1501
Assignment 2
Unique No:
Due 17 September 2025
, CPD1501 – Assignment 2
Citizenship, Public Participation and Democracy
QUESTION 1 – Analyse a recent event or policy in South Africa where public
participation played a key role in shaping democratic outcomes. (15 marks)
Event Chosen: Public involvement in the development and adoption of the National
Health Insurance (NHI) Bill.
Background:
The NHI Bill was introduced to create a single, publicly funded health insurance system
aimed at ensuring universal access to quality healthcare. Its primary goal is to reduce
inequalities between the public and private healthcare sectors. The Bill underwent a
lengthy parliamentary process, culminating in its signing into law in 2024. Public
participation was a central feature of this legislative journey.
Forms of Public Participation Used:
1. Nationwide Parliamentary Hearings: Committees from both the National
Assembly and the National Council of Provinces conducted hearings in all nine
provinces. Citizens, civil society organisations, professional health associations,
and private sector representatives presented oral submissions.
2. Written Submissions: Thousands of individuals and institutions sent written
inputs to Parliament, expressing support, concerns, and proposals for
amendments.
3. Civil Society Campaigns: Advocacy groups, trade unions, and non-
governmental organisations ran awareness drives, prepared research briefs, and
mobilised communities to engage with the Bill.
4. Media Engagement: Television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms hosted
debates and panel discussions, which widened public understanding and
engagement.
Assignment 2
Unique No:
Due 17 September 2025
, CPD1501 – Assignment 2
Citizenship, Public Participation and Democracy
QUESTION 1 – Analyse a recent event or policy in South Africa where public
participation played a key role in shaping democratic outcomes. (15 marks)
Event Chosen: Public involvement in the development and adoption of the National
Health Insurance (NHI) Bill.
Background:
The NHI Bill was introduced to create a single, publicly funded health insurance system
aimed at ensuring universal access to quality healthcare. Its primary goal is to reduce
inequalities between the public and private healthcare sectors. The Bill underwent a
lengthy parliamentary process, culminating in its signing into law in 2024. Public
participation was a central feature of this legislative journey.
Forms of Public Participation Used:
1. Nationwide Parliamentary Hearings: Committees from both the National
Assembly and the National Council of Provinces conducted hearings in all nine
provinces. Citizens, civil society organisations, professional health associations,
and private sector representatives presented oral submissions.
2. Written Submissions: Thousands of individuals and institutions sent written
inputs to Parliament, expressing support, concerns, and proposals for
amendments.
3. Civil Society Campaigns: Advocacy groups, trade unions, and non-
governmental organisations ran awareness drives, prepared research briefs, and
mobilised communities to engage with the Bill.
4. Media Engagement: Television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms hosted
debates and panel discussions, which widened public understanding and
engagement.
