South Africa’s non-alignment posture under the GNU: Still seeking multipolarity amid great power rivalry?

Abstract

South Africa is often criticised regarding its foreign policy of non-alignment, with some assessing that its behaviour does not reflect a genuinely non-aligned position–especially with regard to its relationship with Russia, which has caused tensions with the United States. However, South African policymakers argue that Pretoria wishes to see the establishment of a more equitable and multipolar world order, saying this explains its openness to engage with powers that some consider ‘bad actors’. This takes place against the backdrop of the great power contestation that is currently (re)shaping the international system. This article investigates non-alignment and universality at a conceptual and historical level, examining South Africa’s practical application of these concepts and principles in the context of great power politics, considering also how the internal dynamics of the post-2024 Government of National Unity in Pretoria and its political parties’ respective foreign policy positioning impacts the country’s non-aligned position.