With the phrase “From Pariah to Paragon,” South Africa’s foreign policy transformation is often described as a journey from isolation to active global engagement. Since the end of apartheid, the country has emphasized the promotion of human rights, multilateralism, pan-Africanism, and fostering good relations with both the global North and South. However, as the international order continues to evolve, so has South Africa’s approach to foreign policy.

In this episode, we unpack the dynamic interplay between South Africa’s foreign policy priorities and the challenges of a shifting global landscape with Prof. Dr. Scarlett Cornelissen, a leading expert in South African foreign policy. Prof. Cornelissen’s is a highly accomplished scholar with a PhD from the University of Glasgow and degrees from several universities in South Africa. She has held prestigious fellowships, including the aFellowship at Harvard's Radcliffe Institute. Her research has also been supported by institutions in Japan, such as Kyoto University, and the Institute of Developing Economies. As a co-editor of the Review of International Studies and Geopolitics, Dr. Scarlett also contributes to the editorial boards of leading journals.

Related sources (last accessed November 2024)

South African Department of International Relations & Cooperation (DIRCO)
https://dirco.gov.za/strategic-overview/

South Africa´s International Relations
https://www.gov.za/about-sa/international-relations

Current Presidency asserts responsibility and stance on South Africa’s foreign policy
https://dirco.gov.za/presidency-asserts-responsibility-and-stance-on-south-africas-foreign-policy/

Media Statement of Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ)
https://dirco.gov.za/south-africa-delivers-evidence-of-israel-genocide-to-icj/