History The Anti Apartheid Movement Questions Medium
The Anti-Apartheid Movement, which aimed to end the system of racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa, received significant international support. Several key international legal actions and tribunals played a crucial role in advancing the cause of the movement.
1. United Nations General Assembly Resolutions: The United Nations (UN) passed several resolutions condemning apartheid in South Africa. In 1962, the UN adopted Resolution 1761, which called for economic and military sanctions against the apartheid regime. Subsequently, the UN passed numerous resolutions, including Resolution 181, which declared apartheid a crime against humanity.
2. International Court of Justice (ICJ): In 1971, the UN General Assembly requested an advisory opinion from the ICJ regarding the legality of South Africa's presence in Namibia. The ICJ ruled that South Africa's continued presence in Namibia was illegal under international law, further isolating the apartheid regime.
3. United Nations Special Committee against Apartheid: Established in 1962, the UN Special Committee against Apartheid played a crucial role in coordinating international efforts against apartheid. The committee organized campaigns, conferences, and educational programs to raise awareness about the injustices of apartheid.
4. International Criminal Court (ICC): Although the ICC was established in 2002, after the end of apartheid, it has played a significant role in addressing human rights abuses committed during that era. The ICC has investigated and prosecuted individuals accused of crimes against humanity, including apartheid-era officials.
5. United Nations Security Council: The Security Council imposed various sanctions on South Africa to pressure the apartheid regime to end racial discrimination. These sanctions included arms embargoes, trade restrictions, and cultural and sports boycotts.
6. International Anti-Apartheid Movement: The International Anti-Apartheid Movement, a global network of organizations and activists, played a crucial role in mobilizing international support against apartheid. They organized protests, boycotts, and divestment campaigns to put pressure on governments and corporations supporting the apartheid regime.
These international legal actions and tribunals, along with the efforts of the Anti-Apartheid Movement, contributed to the isolation and eventual dismantling of the apartheid system in South Africa. They demonstrated the global consensus against racial discrimination and helped pave the way for a more inclusive and democratic South Africa.