Transforming the public service to serve a diverse society : can representativeness be the most decisive criterion?
Loading...
Authors
Wessels, J.S.
Issue Date
2008
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Equal opportunities , Equality , Representativeness , South African public service , Transformation
Alternative Title
Abstract
The transformation of the South African public service to serve a diverse society
is a reality. One of the most important criteria used to measure progress with
the transformation process, is representativeness. This article investigates
whether representativeness is a sufficient condition for transforming the South
African public service to render the best possible service to a diverse South
African society. Consequently, this article presents a conceptual framework
as an instrument, first, to untangle the major transformation-related concepts
in the public service and, second, to determine whether equality and equal
opportunities can be achieved for all members of the diverse South African
society, if representativeness is the most decisive criterion for public service
employment. This framework distinguishes between the ends of transformation
(equality and equal opportunities), the various transformation interventions
(affirmative action and diversity management), the subjects of these
interventions (designated groups and previously disadvantaged individuals),
and the prerequisite conditions for these interventions (equity, justice, merit,
diversity and representativeness). The article concludes that equality and equal
opportunities cannot be achieved for all members of the diverse South African
society, should representativeness be regarded as a sufficient condition for
public service employment.
Description
Citation
Wessel, JS 2009,' Transforming the public service to serve a diverse society : can representativeness be the most decisive criterion?', Politeia, vol. 27, no. 3, pp. 21-36.
Publisher
Unisa Press
License
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
0256-8845