“This first report focuses on South Africa. It begins with a brief history of
South African democracy, describing how the core features of South Africa’s
democratic system were established following the transition from apartheid.
The report then examines South Africa’s particular democratic institutions—
political pacts, elections, parliament, courts, and civil society—and their
impact, both positive and negative, on the country’s attempts to promote growth, reduce poverty, stimulate innovation and keep corruption in check. This report outlines many of the achievements and the challenges facing South Africa after nearly 20 years of democratic governance. The conclusion is that more democracy in South Africa, including a more effective ‘voice’ for the unemployed—and certainly not more authoritarianism—could,
under the right circumstances, promote growth. There does not have to be a
trade-off between open politics and successful economics. On the contrary,
by strengthening both democracy and growth, South Africa could become a
wealthier, more stable and a much more inclusive society.”
