Half-Hearted Reform

The greatest obstacle to the transition to a peaceful democracy in South Africa is the political violence that continues to rage in the black townships. The violence, which began in 1984 and gained greater momentum after reform initiatives were undertaken in 1990, has resulted in more than 14,000 deaths. This report analyzes the extent to which the South African government and security forces have implemented the recommendations previously made by Africa Watch and finds that some minor efforts have been taken, though these steps fall far short of a serious attempt to end the violence.