Abstract
The chapter introduces the evolving political scenario in post-apartheid South Africa and its implications for the political environment concerning think tanks. In facing the foreign policy and security challenges, the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) has enhanced its evidence-based policy research, taking into account newly arising untraditional security and foreign policy challenges both globally and domestically, while maintaining an independent posture between the government and civil society. The authors describe SAIIA’s structure and its mission, which evolved from providing a platform for public debate over South Africa’s engagement with the world to contributing to a well-governed, peaceful, economically and globally engaged Africa via more diversified topical coverage. Two case studies are described to explain how SAIIA has influenced the real policy shaping discourse. The first refers to the creation of a policy community in Africa around global economic governance (GEG). The second concerns SAIIA’s engagement with the South Africa Parliament, specifically on mining and developmental issues. Lastly, this chapter identifies three essential factors in SAIIA’s future development: the relationships within a network comprising different stakeholders; the correct choice of partners and sponsors; and a clearly planned long-term development framework.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.