The evolution of EU–South Africa relations: What influence on Africa?

Abstract

South Africa and the European Union (EU) have a longstanding relationship. Their interaction has evolved through various phases, characterised simultaneously by ambitious partnerships coupled with a degree of wariness. As international dynamics change and Africa becomes an increasingly crucial player in global politics, the relationship between the EU and South Africa exerts a host of influences on how Africa and Europe relate to each other. This article discusses the evolution of EU-South Africa relations and highlights direct and indirect influences that this relationship has on the inter-regional partnership between Africa and Europe.

Global Justice and Foreign Policy: The Case of the European Union

“…The EU's emphasis on human rights, for example in its trade agreements, has not been universally acclaimed (Fioramonti and Kotsopoulos 2015). This contrasts with the emphasis on political criteria for membership in the Union, which has not been questioned.…”