About the New South Institute
Our story
At the New South Institutes (NSI), we’ve seen firsthand the deep-rooted challenges that arise from weak and unaccountable institutions in South Africa. We recognised that these flaws were hindering the very promise of democracy — a promise that had sparked so much hope in 1994. Instead of simply observing the dysfunction, we chose to act.
Through evidence-based research and policy analysis, we’ve worked tirelessly to uncover the complexities of government in fragile democracies. Our approach is simple: by identifying the root causes of institutional failure, we provide actionable insights that drive reform. Our work seeks to build stronger, more accountable institutions that can restore the faith in democracy and deliver on its promises for all citizens.
Our Impact
NSI’s purpose is to provide evidence-based policy and applied research on complex problems of government in delicate democracies. We will judge our success on whether our insights and recommendations lead to actions by government to improve performance of state institutions and the other cornerstone institutions of democracy.
2016-2018 – Disrupted State Capture: NSI played a key role in interrupting state capture in South Africa by publishing an acclaimed report and book that identified key agents behind the silent coup in the civil service.
2016-2017 – Supported Civil Servants and Politicians: Helped civil servants and politicians resist illegal and unethical pressures, fostering a coalition dedicated to professionalism and transparency in government.
2016 – Parliamentary Inquiry: NSI was essential in establishing a parliamentary inquiry into state capture, which led to the judicial Zondo Commission.
2017-2021 – Research Collaboration: Continued partnership with the Anti-Corruption Coalition (ACC) at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), producing research to support efforts against corruption and state capture, laying the foundation for more transparent governance.
2021 – Civil Service Reform: Developed proposals to professionalise the civil service and shield officials from political interference. This resulted in Cabinet approving a Framework on Professionalising the Public Service.
MOU for Implementation: Signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Public Service Commission to assist with the implementation of the professionalisation framework. In 2024, we signed an MOU with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), granting us exclusive access to data unprecedented for any organisation.
Strategic Partnerships: Partnered with the Department of Public Service and Administration to drive the transformation of South Africa’s public service, as well as academic institutions such as GIBS, a leading business school in South Africa. We are also engaging with Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration, which will allow us to capitalise on opportunities for engagement with the committee.
Our People
Our Aim
At the New South Institute (NSI), we do more than research and advise on policy—though we excel at both. We believe that passionate people can transform the world by strengthening democracies and building capable, accountable governments.
Our focus is on the New South—fragile democracies grappling with state capture, social fragmentation, and the legacies of civil conflict.
We’ll know we’re successful when:
• Corruption is dismantled and public institutions work for the people.
• Policy is shaped by evidence, not private interests.
• Communities thrive under transparent and responsive governance.
We are not just studying change—we are driving it.
Partners
General Inquiries
If you have any questions or queries, please contact:
Media contact
To contact our communications and public relations officer, please contact us by e-mail or by telephone.
Vacancies
The NSI also recruits temporary staff to carry out its research and projects. If you are interested in working with us, please send an email with your CV, the project you would like to work on, and a brief description of your research interests. NSI also offers scholarship opportunities. Please visit our scholarships page for details. Temporary researcher vacancies are advertised on our LinkedIn page.