Racism and classism in post-apartheid South Africa: Ethnic dilemmas in a democratic society

Abstract

This paper interrogates the intersections between race, class and ethnicity in contemporary South African society, highlighting how economic exclusion, unequal access to opportunities and ethnic tensions undermine democratic ideals. Since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has grappled with the enduring legacies of apartheid and colonialism where racial and class divisions continue to shape social, political and economic life. While democracy promised inclusivity and equality, the persistence of racism and classism reveals deep structural inequalities that complicate nation-building and social cohesion. By examining the lived experiences of marginalised groups and the privileges retained by elites the paper demonstrates how class stratification intersects with racial identity to reproduce old hierarchies in new forms. Ultimately, the paper concludes that addressing these dilemmas requires transformative policies that move beyond symbolic reconciliation towards substantive equality, economic justice and the dismantling of systemic barriers that sustain exclusion.

Keywords: {'name': 'racism,'}, {'name': 'classim'}, {'name': 'gender discrimination, society'}

Authors & affiliations

Malesela Masenya
University of Limpopo

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