Publication

This paper explains that the policies relating to Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) in South Africa constitute a logical unfolding of a strategy which has been largely dictated by the history of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), the nature of the democratic settlement of 1994 and the structure of the South African economy. The author argues that some general perceptions that BEE policies have been inherently elitist are exaggerated and that the BEE has been more broad-based than is generally perceived. The author concludes that, while BEE or some BEE-style policies are necessary to overcome historical injustice and provide the basis for political stability, affirmative action in politics and the South African economy will only work to promote a better life for all if it is systematically combined with concerted anti-poverty strategies.