South Africa for numerous years has played a vital role in maintaining peace, economic prosperity, diplomatic progression and promoting development across the continent and world at large.
The post-Apartheid era of leadership, under the administrations of Mandela, Mbeki, Zuma and the current President Ramaphosa - has continued to cultivate an image of neutrality and influence on the international stage where stability and growth are prominent goals. This goal is emphasised with the idea of a rainbow nation, coined by Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu. The evidence of this is seen in the intricate dance performed with the BRICS bloc where countries, that historically do not interact with each other positively, like Saudi Arabia and Iran have redefined their relationships. South Africa does an excellent job at being a regional leader carrying an influential voice in bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and in the African Union (AU). Within these bodies South Africa mediates conflicts via peacekeeping missions or talks, advocating for democratic governance, pushing for a stronger and more united Africa, The country navigates challenging global dynamics by balancing relationships with major powers whilst championing justice and multilateralism for the promotion of the global south.
The nation plays an influential and critical leadership role within the AU. It has consistently been at the forefront of African peacekeeping missions and conflict resolution efforts throughout Africa. As a voice for Africa on the global stage, South Africa has pushed for stronger African economic integration, promoting the development of policies, security, and the human rights of African citizens. If managed correctly, South Africa can leverage its unique political and economic position to influence global discourse. By virtue of South Africa being included in major multilateral organisations like BRICS and the G20, it shows that despite its size, South Africa is equipped and ready to participate in prominent international roles. Its foreign policy is rooted in ensuring the promotion of peace, growth and stability which is deeply intertwined with the success and influence of the continent.
According to the UN, the state has “historically been one of the largest contributors of women military and police personnel to the UN Peacekeeping. Today South Africa contributes 230 women ‘blue helmets’ ranking it 6th among all UN Member States."
The peacekeeping efforts by South Africa are rooted in efforts promoted by the AU through deploying troops to support peace missions in a variety of countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Comoros and Mozambique. This showcases South Africa’s commitment to long standing sustainable peace and security.
South Africa’s ability to challenge larger global powers on moral grounds, participate in peace negotiations, whilst simultaneously maintaining its influence in an increasingly polarised global landscape is a delicate balancing act. It challenges Western-dominated system and champions the ideas of BRICS+ and the AU’s Agenda 2063.
A key opportunity for South Africa to further assert its global influence is the country’s tenure of the G20 presidency this year. Hosting the Summit gives South Africa a platform to drive an African and Global South agenda, advocating for fairer global economic policies. This enables South Africa to highlight pressing issues such as climate change, trade reforms, and sustainable development. South Africa will bridge the gap between developing and developed economies, reinforcing its diplomatic and economic significance on the world stage.
Banthati Sekwala: Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group
Egyptian and South African Specialist