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.
