Cairns, Murray2024-07-262024-07-262023Cairns, Murray. (2023). Challenges to inclusive public participation in the development of the national security strategy [Master’s dissertation, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg]. WireDSpace. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/39870https://hdl.handle.net/10539/39870A research report submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Management (in the field of Security) to the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, Wits School of Governance, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023Public participation is a fundamental component of good Security Sector Governance (SSG), allowing those who are affected to participate in decision-making processes. Although inclusive participation is recognized as fundamental, this has not translated in its universal application, particularly when it relates to matters of national security. South Africa's 2013 National Security Strategy (NSS) has taken a similar approach, drawing criticism for its lack of inclusivity. In light of this, this research seeks to explore the challenges that exist within South Africa’ssecurity sector that limit inclusive public participation. The paper employed a qualitative case study and purposive sampling to collect textual data on challenges found in other contexts, and the perspectives of security experts familiar with practices in the country's security space. Findings from the research show that the country's historical legacies, as well as institutional practices and relationships among various stakeholders, limit public participation in South Africa's security sectoren© 2023 University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. All rights reserved. The copyright in this work vests in the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.Security Sector Governance (SSG)National Security Strategy (NSS)UCTDSDG-16: Peace, justice and strong institutionsDissertationUniversity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg