United States Foreign Policy in Africa: A Right Approach
Abstract
A system of enforced racial separation known as apartheid has been an official government policy of the Republic of South Africa since the National Party came to power in 1948. A major US policy goal has been the elimination of apartheid and the establishment of a non-racial democracy committed to human rights and economic opportunity for all people of South Africa. Since 1986, US policy has been a combination of economic sanctions imposed by Congress with the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 and a continuation of the constructive engagement initiatives begun by the Reagan Administration during the early 1980s. Under 'constructive engagement,' the Administration sought an evolutionary process of reform in South Africa through diplomatic initiatives and a variety of assistance given to apartheid victims. This study assesses the effectiveness of current US policy in light of US interest in South Africa, the limitations of the policy, and the progress made toward stated policy goals. It concludes by proposing a future policy that will serve the US well in protecting and furthering its interests in Southern Africa. Keywords: Foreign policy; Political science; South Africa; Racial discrimination; United States Government; Apartheid; Constructive Engagement.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA220653
Entities
People
- Murrell D. Porter
Organizations
- United States Army War College