This paper examines evidence on the advantages and limitations of participatory governance. The study compares theoretical predictions with the experience of South Africa, where policy-making fora open to civil society were set up as part of the transition from apartheid to democracy. These findings point to the continued relevance of traditional civil society action –such as tripartite social dialogue– which is based on a combination of dialogue, bargaining and mobilisation rather than deliberation capacity. Therefore, according to this study and despite the trend decline in union affiliation observed in many countries, social dialogue between government, employers and unions remains relevant for addressing a wide range of key policy issues.