Our work

South Africa has one of the world's great constitutions. The IGL exists to make sure it isn't just great on paper — but real, enforceable, and felt in the lives of ordinary people.

We do this through three areas of focused, practical work.

Public interest litigation

When government institutions or officials breach their obligations, we go to court. Not to make a point — to get a result.

This litigation is supported by research conducted by the IGL — research that may also be shared with the broader public where appropriate. Among the matters we consider urgent: the findings of the Zondo Commission, whose report we believe is at risk of being left unimplemented.

Parliamentary submissions

We engage with legislation and policy reviews before they become law — because the best time to fix bad law is before it's passed.

The IGL makes submissions to Parliament on a range of issues, including impending legislation and policy reviews, drawing on our research to put on record what the Constitution requires.

Public events & dialogue

We bring together voices committed to a South Africa where governance is honest, accountable, and worth trusting again.

The IGL hosts occasional events to promote the values of accountable, lawful governance — creating space for serious engagement with the state of the rule of law in South Africa.