This paper examines the economic and social underpinnings of rising political
instability in South Africa such as poverty, unemployment and inequality.
The paper then reviews the patterns of violence across different categories
before concluding with a brief analysis of the extent to which corruption, poor
governance and lacklustre leadership exacerbate social turbulence. In this
way, it presents the context for a separate paper, South African scenarios
2024, and a subsequent set of policy recommendations Rainbow at risk that
set out the prospects and requirements for change.