Preface

Writing this thesis was my personal humble walk to freedom – with reaching the milestone of graduation I am diving into a new stage of my life. I have been so privileged to work on most of my thesis during a six-month stay in Stellenbosch, South Africa, where I have been able to experience the pure South African life. Luckily, I did not have much trouble feeling at home, and this is thanks to several people. The most important one is indisputable Prof. Willie Breytenbach from the Political Science Department of the University of Stellenbosch, who not only intellectually but also socially has been a big support. Not soon will I forget the Sunday afternoon braais, with or without some good Kaapse rooiwyn, or the car-drives with Stef Bos as background vocals. My Merriman flatmates can not remain unmentioned either. Thank you, Kirsten, Peet, Léan and Michael for all the lekker kuiertimes we had together and for making my stay in Stellenbosch so memorable. Michael deserves a special note, for being my walking encyclopaedia. Despite some discords, I enjoyed our conversations enormously.

From the University of Utrecht, I appreciate the critical but pleasant assistance of my supervisor Dr. Maarten Kuitenbrouwer. Fortunately, during my time overseas the home front did not forget me. I am more than grateful to my parents for giving me the opportunity to have this life-experience. Thank you for always being proud of me, even in times when not completely justified. Tim and David, my two brothers, thanks for never ceasing to embarrass me in public when I burst out laughing as I opened your emails. Finally, I am in debt to Michiel, who introduced me into the wonderful world of Excel. Thank you for always answering your phone.