A Systematic Review of the Barriers to the Adoption of Digital Tools Used to Support Democratic Participation in South Africa

Abstract

This systematic review examined the barriers to the adoption of digital tools designed to facilitate citizens’ democratic participation in South Africa. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the study systematically synthesised evidence from 48 studies and reports published between 2012 and 2025. The findings revealed that the effective adoption of digital tools is hindered by interconnected structural barriers, including persistent limited access to digital infrastructure, unfavourable regulatory and policy frameworks, coalition-driven political instability, bureaucratic inefficiencies within the government, and limited awareness, as well as a widespread lack of digital literacy among citizens. To address these challenges, there is a need for integrated reforms that recognise broadband access as a human right or a democratic public good, institutionalise digital literacy and skills as a civic competence, and incorporate feedback accountability approaches in governance structures. The study conceptually clarifies the position of digital democracy tools within broader digital-governance theory, distinguishing them from conventional ICT interventions. In practice, it provides policymakers and practitioners with insights to enhance citizen-centred digital governance.