'The collapse of communism and the fall of the Soviet Union paved the way for negotiations between the ANC and the apartheid government after 1989.' Critically discuss this statement by analysing the impact that the collapse of the Soviet Union had on South Africa’s political landscape. - NSC History - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2

During the late 1980s, Russia faced severe economic difficulties, resulting in the decline of the USSR's global influence. The economic instability led to a shift in priorities that affected communist regimes worldwide, including in South Africa.

Gorbachev introduced reforms aimed at increasing transparency and restructuring the economy. These policies weakened the USSR's control over Eastern Europe and its allies, thereby impacting the ANC's position against the apartheid regime.

The de-escalation of nuclear tensions allowed South Africa to navigate through its volatile political landscape without the looming threat of Cold War dynamics. The ANC had more leeway to negotiate without fear of Soviet intervention.

The withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan marked a significant shift in the Cold War, lessening the urgency for countries like South Africa to align with the USSR, thus empowering anti-apartheid movements.

As Eastern European countries moved away from Soviet control, the ANC could look to new alliances and support from Western nations, further facilitating the negotiation process with the apartheid government.

The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of the Cold War, encouraging movements worldwide, including South Africa, to strive for democratic transition. This event energized the ANC to push for negotiations with a weakened apartheid government.

Global shifts in ideology and governance played a role in pressuring the apartheid regime. The ANC was empowered to negotiate with a government that was increasingly isolated internationally.

The ANC historically benefitted from Soviet backing, but the USSR's collapse removed this lifeline, pushing the ANC towards negotiation as the only viable path forward.

The lack of Soviet support forced the ANC to seek alternative alliances, particularly with Western nations, to bolster its negotiating position against the apartheid government.

Gorbachev advocated for peaceful transitions globally, which influenced the ANC and apartheid negotiations, encouraging mediated outcomes rather than violent confrontations.

The global community, particularly Western countries, favored stability in South Africa, leading to increasing support for ANC negotiations, which were facilitated by the changing international dynamics.

The collapse of the Soviet Union was a catalyst for essential negotiations between the ANC and the apartheid government. It significantly altered the balance of power in South Africa, facilitating a transition towards democracy. Ultimately, the decline in Soviet influence encouraged a more favorable environment for negotiation and reconciliation.