A new geopolitical positioning of South Africa: Strategies for a modern "Swing State"

Ralph Wrobel

No 2026-1, Discourses in Social Market Economy from OrdnungsPolitisches Portal (OPO)

Abstract: The evolving geopolitical landscape has placed South Africa at a crossroads, torn between its historical ties to the West and its growing relationships with BRICS+ nations, particularly China and Russia. The country's recent political shift, marked by the African National Congress (ANC) losing its parliamentary majority, has intensified debates over its international alignment. As a "Global Swing State," South Africa must navigate a complex global order by balancing cooperation with both power blocs-mainly Europe and China-while maintaining independence. A pragmatic foreign policy-one that prioritises economic development, democratic stability, and institutional reform- will be crucial in positioning South Africa as a bridge between the Global South and the West.

Keywords: Geopolitics; Swing States; South Africa; Europe; Russia; China (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: F50 O55 P45 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-afr
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:zbw:opodis:335025

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