Public dialogue hosted by the Institute for Global Dialogue:
The ANC’s International Relations: Navigating a Changing International Strategic Landscape
The Inclusive Society Institute (ISI) participated in the aforementioned dialogue, which was held on Monday, 25 July 2022, which sought to analyse the historical and contemporary role of the African National Congress (ANC) in shaping South Africa’s international relations. It came at an opportune moment with the Party going into a National Policy Conference (NPC) at the end of July 2022. The ANC’s approach to international relations has largely centred on the concept of progressive internationalism and solidarity, outlined in its recent discussion paper titled In Pursuit of Progressive Internationalism in a Changing World. However, beyond the Party and its Alliance Partners these concepts remain little understood, with some questioning their relevance in an evolving international landscape witnessing various disruptions in the global North and South. Whilst some trends may in fact enhance the conditions of implementing the Party’s resolutions, other changes pose challenges and even a concerted backlash towards the adoption and implementation of certain policies.
The ISI’s CEO, Daryl Swanepoel, bemoaned the current dialogues between (South) Africa, the West and the developing world, which he suggested were being held in silos. He was of the view that triangular dialogue between the three sides was necessary as such inclusive dialogue would respond in a more coordinated and effective manner to the enormous challenges facing the country and the continent.
