Building Democracy: An Examination of Religious Associations in South Africa and Zimbabwe

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Periodical article

Title:	Building Democracy: An Examination of Religious Associations in South Africa and Zimbabwe
Author:	Kuperus, Tracy
Year:	1999
Periodical:	Journal of Modern African Studies
Volume:	37
Issue:	4
Period:	December
Pages:	643-668
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	South Africa Zimbabwe
Subjects:	religion political systems Religion and Witchcraft Politics and Government
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/161430
Abstract:	This paper explores the dynamics of regime change in South Africa since 1990 and Zimbabwe since 1980 through an examination of the role of civil society in both countries. More particularly, it analyses the role of mainline Christian religious associations in building and consolidating democracy. After surveying State-civil society debates, the paper examines the nature and purpose of civil society in South Africa and Zimbabwe. It appears that in both countries, a vibrant, diverse civil society exists that builds or strengthens democratic possibilities; however, Zimbabwean civil society is weaker for reasons that include regime type, the particularities of the liberation struggle, and constitutional limitations. The paper concludes with prescriptions for strengthening civil society in South Africa based on lessons learned from Zimbabwe. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum.