"A functioning democracy is built on dual foundation : a set of fair procedures for peacefully handling the issues that divide a society and a set of working relationships between the groups involved. And that is where reconciliation comes in....Reconciliation underpins democracy by developing the working relationships necessary for its successful implementation".        

David Bloomsfield, 2003

This section of the SA Monitor Project focuses on the obstacles and opportunities within the national reconciliation and nation-building process. It asks the questions:

Are South Africans learning to overcome their divisions and live together? How can reconciliation be advanced?

What are the consequences if South Africa fails to achieve reconciliation?