Developments in labour relations in South Africa : ten years of democracy (1994-2004)

Abstract

South Africa's labour legislation framework, promulgated during the past decade (1994-2004), is regarded as some of the most comprehensive in the world. It has done much to redress the imbalances of the past. With four significant Acts promulgated to regulate andmanage labour relations in the country, there are still areas lagging behind that have a profound influence on the country's economic performance. This article provides an introduction to the realities of South Africa after its first democratic election in 1994, before moving on to discuss labour legislation briefly. It then identifies specific challenges that face the country in the near future, not least the requirement to provide greater balance in the employee-employer relationship.