Social welfare in transition in South Africa: structures and processes.

The article discusses the transition of social welfare in South Africa. The draft White Paper has now made its way through the legislative process and has been accepted as a policy document for social welfare in South Africa. Developmental social welfare services will be guided by the following principles: securing basic welfare rights for all through a combination of private and public financing methods, equity, non-discrimination, democracy, respect for human rights, sustainability, ensuring quality services, transparency and accountability, accessibility, appropriateness and humanity in the delivery of services. The vision, mission and principles reflect the ideals articulated in the transitional constitution of the country. However, the challenge remains one of understanding the implications of this policy for specific achievable outcomes and priorities and translating the principles into practice, within the current financial and human resources constraints. To this end, a five-year strategic plan to implement the policy document will be worked out.