The 2025 South African Reconciliation Barometer reveals that public attitudes towards the government of national unity have stayed largely the same. Confidence in political leaders and institutions continues to be low, with poverty and inequality as persistent concerns. The South African Broadcasting Corporation emerges as the most trusted public institution.
The latest South African Reconciliation Barometer, released in 2025, tracks public opinion and attitudes in the post-apartheid era. It highlights that views on the government of national unity (GNU) have not shifted significantly since previous years. Despite ongoing efforts at reconciliation, major issues like poverty, inequality, and social exclusion dominate public concerns.
Few black South Africans report improvements in economic conditions, and the widening gap between rich and poor is viewed as the primary obstacle to national healing. Trust in public institutions remains subdued overall. The survey indicates low confidence in political leadership and key bodies.
In a positive note for media, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) ranks highest in public trust at 54 percent, retaining its top position from prior assessments. The South African Revenue Service (Sars) follows closely with 46 percent trust. Other institutions lag behind: the Constitutional Court at 35 percent, the South African Police Service at 34 percent, the legal system and the President both at 33 percent. Local government and the deputy president receive the lowest scores, at 26 percent and 25 percent respectively.
This barometer underscores the challenges in building institutional faith amid economic disparities, offering a snapshot of societal sentiments without major progress in key areas.
