Botswana is the longest surviving democracy in Southern Africa, which others often seek to emulate. In order to observe popular satisfaction with democratization, an Afrobarometer survey was conducted in Botswana in 2000. The results reflect long-standing democratic values and the firm entrenchment of democratic institutions. Bastswana demonstrate their satisfaction with democracy and the legitimacy of the state, by claiming that the government exercises power within legal means and equally represents the interests of all citizens. Few Batswana, however, take an interest in politics or civic affairs, yet they can generally identify their political leaders. Interestingly, most Batswana indicate that their personal economic conditions are worsening as well as those of the economy as a whole. The survey reveals that although Batswana are generally content, problems of political participation and economic distribution still need attention.
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