The politics of social protection in South Africa: reflections on establishing a welfare state

The purpose of this article is to reflect on the advances made in the direction of a welfare state in South Africa, and the possibility of its establishment. In order to reflect on the question whether South Africa’s political economy is moving towards a welfare state, certain arguments are advanced. First, a brief comment on South Africa’s political economy is offered. Secondly, some key theories and actors that could influence the South African political economy’s movement towards a welfare state are identified. Thirdly, the author reflects on the question of whether such a movement is taking place as well as the likelihood of a welfare state’s developing in South Africa.