History The Anti Apartheid Movement Questions Medium
The key international supporters of the Anti-Apartheid Movement were numerous and played a crucial role in putting pressure on the South African government to dismantle the apartheid system. Some of the key international supporters include:
1. United Nations (UN): The UN played a significant role in condemning apartheid and imposing economic and political sanctions on South Africa. In 1973, the UN General Assembly passed the International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid, which labeled apartheid as a crime against humanity.
2. African National Congress (ANC): The ANC, the main anti-apartheid political party in South Africa, received support from various African countries. Neighboring countries like Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique provided safe havens for ANC members and allowed them to operate from their territories.
3. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM): The NAM, a group of countries that did not align with any major power bloc during the Cold War, supported the anti-apartheid movement. They called for the isolation of South Africa and imposed economic sanctions on the country.
4. Commonwealth of Nations: The Commonwealth, a voluntary association of countries, took a strong stance against apartheid. In 1971, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting issued the Singapore Declaration, which condemned apartheid and called for its eradication.
5. Western Countries: Western countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and various European nations, played a significant role in supporting the anti-apartheid movement. Civil society organizations, churches, and individuals within these countries actively campaigned against apartheid and pressured their governments to impose sanctions on South Africa.
6. Anti-Apartheid Movements and Organizations: Various anti-apartheid movements and organizations were formed around the world to support the cause. These included the British Anti-Apartheid Movement, American Committee on Africa, and the Anti-Apartheid Movement in Australia. These groups organized protests, boycotts, and divestment campaigns to raise awareness and put pressure on the South African government.
Overall, the international support for the Anti-Apartheid Movement was crucial in isolating the apartheid regime and contributing to its eventual downfall. The combined efforts of these supporters helped to bring global attention to the injustices of apartheid and played a significant role in the liberation of South Africa.