South Africa’s Political Landscape to be Mapped by 2025 Pew Research Survey
Table of Contents
A comprehensive new survey from the Pew Research Center will delve into the ideological leanings of South African adults, providing critical insights into the nation’s evolving political landscape. The study, part of the Spring 2025 Global Attitudes Survey, will analyze responses from 1,570 adults across the country, gathered through face-to-face interviews conducted between February 21 and March 30, 2025.
Broad Representation Across South Africa
The Pew Research Center prioritized inclusivity in its methodology. Interviews were conducted in six of South Africa’s official languages – Afrikaans, English, North Sotho, South Sotho, Xhosa, and Zulu – ensuring broad representation across the diverse population. The survey is designed to be representative of all South African adults ages 18 and older, offering a statistically significant snapshot of public opinion. Detailed information regarding the international survey methodology and country-specific sample designs is available for review.
Examining Ideological Self-Placement
A key component of the research focuses on understanding how South Africans perceive their own place on the ideological spectrum. Researchers asked respondents to position themselves on a seven-point scale, ranging from “Extreme left” to “Extreme right.” This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of political attitudes beyond traditional party affiliations.
“This methodology allows us to move beyond simply identifying who people vote for, and begin to understand why they hold the beliefs they do,” a senior researcher explained.
Regional Context: Kenya and Nigeria
The Pew Research Center is also conducting similar surveys in other African nations. For more detailed information on the methodologies employed in Kenya and Nigeria, readers are directed to the center’s country-specific reports.
The findings from this South African survey, expected in late 2025, promise to be a valuable resource for policymakers, academics, and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of South African society. The data will undoubtedly contribute to a more informed discussion about the country’s future political trajectory and the forces shaping public opinion.
