International Relations and Foreign Policy

Since the end of Apartheid, the democratic South African government has held a reputation for “boxing above its weight” in international diplomacy. Noted for responding cautiously to the dualities that exist within the international system and favouring soft power strategies, the South African foreign policy-makers perform a balancing act between various domestic and international actors. We support a South African foreign policy that is independent and of nonaligned posture of strategic autonomy. In this context, we seek to assist South Africa deepen the linkage between foreign and domestic priorities, harness coordination among these state and non-state actors and strengthen the foreign policy infrastructure available.

Through our activities, we promote spaces for participation, exchange, training, reflection and analysis. In addition, we support research and organize debates between diverse representatives of political life including civil society, trade unions, universities, think tanks and the media.