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How did the international community respond to Apartheid policies in South Africa?

Stetson Traynor

The international community responded to Apartheid policies in South Africa with a variety of measures. Apartheid was a system of racial segregation that existed in South Africa from 1948 until the early 1990s. The policy was characterized by institutionalized racism and discrimination, which fueled widespread protests from the international community.

At first, there was significant reluctance by many countries to take a stance against Apartheid in South Africa. However, as the policy continued, and more information became available about the extent of the human rights abuses being committed in South Africa, calls for action grew louder.

One significant response to Apartheid was the imposition of economic sanctions. These measures were designed to hurt the South African economy and put pressure on the government to change its policies. Some countries enacted comprehensive trade and financial restrictions, while others enacted targeted sanctions on industries that were crucial to the South African economy. By the late 1980s, these measures had helped to weaken the South African government's ability to sustain its policies.

Another significant response was the international condemnation of Apartheid. Countries around the world spoke out against the policy, and there were widespread calls for the release of political prisoners and the end of discriminatory practices. International organizations, such as the United Nations, played a crucial role in this effort, highlighting the human rights abuses and calling for action to be taken.

There were also cultural and sports boycotts of South Africa, aimed at isolating the country and putting pressure on its government. Many artists and musicians refused to perform in South Africa, while sporting events were often disrupted by protests and boycotts. The most significant of these was the boycott of the 1986 Commonwealth Games, which led to increased international pressure and attention.

Finally, there were diplomatic efforts to bring about change in South Africa. Dialogue and negotiations aimed at ending Apartheid began in the 1980s, and these eventually led to the release of Nelson Mandela, a key figure in the anti-Apartheid struggle, and the eventual dismantling of the Apartheid system. International pressure played a significant role in these negotiations, forcing the South African government to the negotiating table.

In conclusion, the international community responded to Apartheid policies in South Africa with a range of measures, including economic sanctions, cultural and sports boycotts, diplomatic efforts, and international condemnation. These efforts were successful in putting pressure on the South African government to end Apartheid, and they remain a key example of the power of international solidarity and action.