A broken promise? Evaluating South Africa’s reconciliation process twenty years on

Abstract

To help explain public sentiment about reconciliation among contemporary South Africans, two major issues are discussed. The first is how reconciliation was articulated and ‘performed’ by key leaders during the early transition. The second relates to factors shaping South Africans’ current perceptions of reconciliation. By recalling significant statements made by political leaders, and outlining the roles of the National Peace Accord and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, it is shown that reconciliation was initially accepted by South Africans when it was defined as an acceptance of their interdependence, and was seen as being based on a commitment to justice and inclusivity. The post-apartheid leadership was mandated to build on these commitments in order to create a more just society over time. However, data from various public opinion surveys reveal that, despite important achievements, the government’s failure to pay reparations, combined with state corruption and denial from the white community, have created increasing disillusionment with reconciliation.