How did the international community oppose apartheid?

The international community opposed apartheid through economic sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and support for anti-apartheid movements.

The international community's opposition to apartheid was multifaceted and involved a range of strategies. One of the most significant was the imposition of economic sanctions. Many countries, particularly those in the West, imposed trade embargoes on South Africa, which severely impacted the country's economy. The United Nations (UN) played a crucial role in this, passing a series of resolutions that called for member states to cease economic relations with South Africa. These sanctions were not universally adhered to, but they did contribute to the economic pressure on the apartheid regime.

Diplomatic isolation was another key strategy used by the international community. South Africa was expelled from the UN in 1974 and was not readmitted until 1994, after the end of apartheid. The country was also excluded from other international organisations and events, such as the Olympics. This diplomatic isolation served to delegitimise the apartheid regime and increased its international pariah status.

Support for anti-apartheid movements was another way in which the international community opposed apartheid. Many countries provided financial and material support to the African National Congress (ANC) and other anti-apartheid groups. This support was crucial in enabling these groups to continue their struggle against the apartheid regime. The international community also provided a platform for anti-apartheid activists to voice their opposition to the regime. For example, the UN General Assembly regularly invited ANC representatives to address its sessions.

In addition to these strategies, the international community also used cultural boycotts to oppose apartheid. Many musicians, artists, and sports teams refused to perform or play in South Africa. These cultural boycotts helped to raise awareness of the injustices of apartheid and further isolated South Africa internationally.

Overall, the international community's opposition to apartheid was instrumental in bringing about its end. The economic sanctions, diplomatic isolation, support for anti-apartheid movements, and cultural boycotts all contributed to the pressure on the apartheid regime to reform and ultimately dismantle the system of racial segregation.