The Konrad‑Adenauer‑Stiftung (KAS) South Africa successfully concluded the South African Parliamentary Delegation Visit to Germany, held from 21 to 26 September 2025. The delegation, consisting of an MP, senior parliamentary officials, and civil society experts engaged extensively with institutions in Berlin and Stuttgart to observe Germany’s parliamentary architecture at federal, state, and municipal levels
Through discussions with Bundestag members, parliamentary research services, political leaders, and KAS experts, the delegation explored best practices in legislative oversight, committee performance, evidence‑based lawmaking, and citizen‑centred governance. Emphasis was placed on Germany’s experience with coalition governance, which delegates found especially relevant to South Africa’s current political landscape, where national governance now depends on cooperation across ten political parties.
Participants expressed strong appreciation for the programme’s design and the opportunity for direct institutional engagement. Reflections highlighted the value of strengthening oversight systems, improving parliamentary transparency, and revitalising the culture of debate within South Africa’s legislative bodies. The visit also deepened mutual understanding between the two countries’ democratic institutions and reaffirmed the importance of sustained cooperation.
This initiative forms part of KAS South Africa’s broader commitment to building capable, collaborative, and forward‑looking parliamentary systems. Insights gathered during the visit will inform future cooperation and capacity‑building efforts in support of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
