IEC voter participation survey 2013: tabulation report

The overall objective of the 2013 Voter Participation Survey (VPS) is to inform and guide the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in its plans, policies and practices in undertaking the 2014 national elections. The specific objectives of the study are to evaluate the general State of Democracy in South Africa, to determine voting intention and behaviour and to examine the electoral and political involvement ahead of the 2014 national elections. A specific focus of the project is also to determine participation patterns of the youth and other vulnerable groups. In 2013 the Electoral Commission (IEC) commissioned the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) to undertake this Voter Participation Survey. Similar surveys have been undertaken prior to the 1999, 2000, 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2011 elections. These types of Voter Participation Surveys are usually commissioned approximately 5 months prior to the actual elections, to allow the IEC enough time to implement recommendations that might emanate from the research. One of the core aims of the study is to understand what drives participation and how participation rates can be improved, especially given the increasing low voter turnout. Of particular concern is also whether vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and persons with disabilities, are provided for during the elections.