Survey shows SA democracy slipping

2012-02-06 21:28

Johannesburg - Key indicators of democracy have slipped since 2008, according to the latest South Africa Survey, the SA Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) said on Monday.

The survey, which is based on assessment of three international indexes, found that civil liberties had decreased, researcher Georgina Alexander said in a statement.

The indicators of corruption control and the government's ability to provide quality public services were also cause for concern.

The World Bank Governance Indicator Report found that South Africa had improved in the areas of political stability and the rule of law.

However, in the categories of government effectiveness and voice and accountability, South Africa had slipped from the previous report of 2008.

The Rainbow Index, which was developed by the SAIRR, found a 6% decline in individual rights and responsibilities.

Alexander said the falling scores could be attributed to issues such as media freedom and accountability of public officials.

"Proposed legislation such as the protection of state information bill passed by the National Assembly may adversely affect South Africa’s democracy rankings in the future," she said.

- SAPA