Introduction

This study examines how racial isolation influences voting behavior.

New Data Shows

Drawing on novel evidence from contemporary South Africa, the research highlights a strong link between residential segregation and electoral choices along racial lines.

The Core Question

Why does racial voting persist despite policy changes aimed at reducing ethnic inequality?

Key Findings

* Segregation remains deeply entrenched in many urban areas of South Africa.

* Voters from different racial groups increasingly reside in separate, politically distinct neighborhoods.

* This geographic separation significantly shapes political identity and voting preferences.

How We Did It

Our analysis combines large-scale survey data with detailed neighborhood-level information on population demographics.

Implications

Racial segregation needs to be addressed if future democratic stability is to be achieved in the country.