These are among the key findings of Freedom House's study of South African democracy, conducted through 27 moderated focus groups convened between June and October 2013 that included South Africans from all racial and income groups and from rural as well as urban areas.
South Africans take their human rights for granted and retain faith in the democratic system, with strong support for voting.
The ANC maintains strong voter support, despite considerable public cynicism about government and politicians.
Citizens expect the government to build on the substantial amount it delivered during the first two decades of democracy, even if they distrust many state institutions.
Citizens see legislative institutions as weak, unresponsive and corrupt.
There is an extreme lack of confidence in the police, fuelled by rampant crime and the belief that lawlessness prevails.
Although there are exceptions, most South Africans consign the experience of pervasive racism to history, and young people have moved beyond thinking along racial lines.
Section 1: Introduction: Objectives, Methodology, Analysis and Political Context
Section 2: Human Rights, Change and Daily Life in Communities Across South Africa
Section 3: Political System, Leaders and the Institutions of South African Democracy
Section 4: Public Participation, Engagement with the System and the Media
Section 5: Voting and party Political Choice
Appendix A: Synopsis of the Discussion Guide
Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Distribution of Focus Groups by Province
Freedom House - Democratic Governance