President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday issued a warning regarding the state of global affairs, stating that solidarity, cooperation and friendship are being challenged by the resurgence of narrow nationalism, prejudice and intolerance.

With South Africa preparing to celebrate Freedom Day on April 27, marking 30 years since the adoption of the democratic Constitution, Ramaphosa emphasised the need to defend democratic gains both domestically and internationally.

In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa notes that conflicts and wars – often linked to battles over resources – continue across the globe, as do others related to colonial-era divisions shaped by violent conquest.

In many places, democracy is under threat, he says, noting a decline in trust in democratic systems.

Ramaphosa notes the issues are a “serious challenge”, exacerbated by deep inequalities within and among nations, arguing that the rules and institutions that support democracy must work to improve people’s lives.

Last week Ramaphosa attended at the fourth meeting of the ‘In Defence of Democracy’ initiative in Barcelona, in Spain, where he addressed global leaders on the challenges.

During the visit, he stressed that South Africa will not be bullied into silence on human rights issues.

“We made a call for the United Nations to reassert itself in global affairs. For democratic values to thrive, all institutions of global governance need to be reformed so that all the countries and peoples of the world are represented,” he said.

Ramaphosa criticised bodies like the United Nations Security Council, stating that they have become powerless to intervene in conflicts and prevent genocide.

Ramaphosa further warned that the erosion of democracy in other parts of the world also affects South Africa.

“… our economy and society feel the effects of conflicts beyond borders, intensified geopolitical tensions and the weaponisation of trade, foreign direct investment and aid,” he said.

He reminds South Africans that the nation's 1996 Constitution remains a solid foundation for a society built on human rights, the rule of law, and the expression of the people’s will through regular elections.

“What we have built and continue to build in this country is distinct. This places a responsibility on South Africa as an active member of the international community to advance our constitutional values beyond our borders,” he said.

As South Africa marks three decades of constitutional democracy, Ramaphosa calls for a recommitment to defending these values and accelerating efforts to tackle poverty and inequality in the country.