"No happiness without liberty, no liberty without self-government, no self-government without constitutionalism, no constitutionalism without morality – and none of these great goods without stability and order" – Clinton Rossitor.

This is how Professor Clinton Rossitor, a leading constitutional authority, described The Federalist Papers which provided the intellectual basis and moral justification for the American Constitution and American Democracy. It is a famous work in political science because it mixes candour and hope, realism and idealism, in a message to all friends of liberty wherever they apply their honorable trade. That message is as set out above.

The American Constitution was adopted in 1787 and has accommodated many social and political changes – no less in race relations.

The South African Constitution was adopted in 1994 and was and is described as one of the most modern constitutions in the world. Its adoption reflects the same commitment and values as the US Constitution. How has it fared in the 16 years it has been in operation? How has it responded to the social and political pressures of this transforming country? Does it need revising? And, if so, in what ways?

These are the issues this workshop is responding to. With wide-ranging and challenging themes, and an impressive line-up of South Africa's top constitutional experts, it raises matters of enormous importance not just to constitutional lawyers but every citizen in all walks of life.

Contact:

T: +27 (0)21 689 7881
Teresa Botha: teresab@omegainvest.co.za