The NDP and the idea of South Africa

Abstract

This chapter contends that there can be no national social cohesion in South Africa without labour market inclusion, a sustained effort at poverty and inequality eradication (and not simply alleviation), the elimination of all forms of exclusions and in particular, dealing with the legacy of racial inequalities inherited from the apartheid era and the restoration of public trust in elected officials and public servants. It looks at social cohesion and social inclusion and the second will address whether the new National Development Plan can achieve greater cohesion and inclusion in South Africa. While there is an improving sense of an overarching identity, the persistence of racial profiles with regard to most of the macro-social indicators does illustrate the road yet to be traversed. The politics of difference is about an inclusive democracy that places issues of equality, inclusivity and social justice at the heart of the urban question.