Racial group segregation

2005
south africa

Racial group segregation refers to the physical separation and isolation of people from different racial backgrounds into distinct geographic areas or social institutions. This practice has historically been fueled by discrimination and prejudice, with the intention of maintaining racial hierarchy and preserving the privileges of dominant racial groups.

Racial group segregation has taken various forms throughout history, including apartheid in South Africa, the Jim Crow laws in the United States, and the caste system in India. These systems enforced rigid boundaries between racial groups, denying people of certain races equal access to resources, opportunities, and representation.

Segregation can have wide-ranging and long-lasting effects on individuals, communities, and societies. It perpetuates social inequalities and limits opportunities for individuals from marginalized racial groups. It can also contribute to the development of separate racial identities and create barriers to understanding and empathy between different racial groups.

In many countries, segregation is now illegal and socially unacceptable. However, some forms of de facto segregation still persist, such as residential segregation or disparities in educational opportunities and healthcare access. Efforts to address and dismantle racial group segregation often involve policies and initiatives aimed at promoting integration, equal opportunities, and diversity, as well as challenging systemic racism and discrimination.

Further reading

Christopher A.J. (2005) "Does South Africa have ghettos?", Tijdschrift voor Economische en Sociale Geografie, 96(3), pp. 241-252. . DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9663.2005.00456.x