This supplement to FOCUS No. 87 provides an analysis of the steps taken and obstacles remaining in the process of negotiating an end to apartheid in South Africa as of early 1990. It details the partial reforms initiated by the apartheid regime, including the unbanning of political organisations, the release of some political prisoners, and the lifting of certain emergency regulations. The supplement critically examines the limitations of these reforms, the continued existence of repressive legislation, the ongoing state of emergency, and the regime's retention of significant powers of repression. It also covers the responses of the African National Congress (ANC) and the international community, and outlines the requirements of the Harare Declaration for genuine negotiations.

This issue documents key developments in South Africa in March 1990, including the Organisation of African Unity’s monitoring of events, the ANC’s return from exile, and the restructuring of anti-apartheid organizations such as SAYCO and SACTU. It provides context on the evolving relationship between the unbanned ANC and other legal organizations, and includes references to major news sources. The publication also outlines the mission and activities of IDAF and its affiliated committees worldwide.