Russia’s Anti-Colonial Narrative Influences Public Opinion in South Africa
Russia’s anti-colonial narrative influences public sentiment in South Africa, rooted in historical ties dating back to the Cold War. Sue Dobson’s story highlights Moscow’s support during the apartheid struggle. Many African nations have not condemned Russia’s current actions, reflecting a complex legacy of historical solidarity and anti-imperialism that persists today.
Russia’s ‘anti-colonial’ narrative has significantly influenced public opinion in South Africa. This sympathy towards Moscow has historical roots tracing back to the Cold War era. Notably, in 1986, Sue Dobson, a young woman from Pretoria, was enlisted by the African National Congress (ANC) to infiltrate the apartheid regime, receiving training in Moscow. Upon returning to South Africa, she worked within the apartheid government’s propaganda wing until her cover was compromised.
Dobson’s training in Moscow included skills like secret writing and surveillance detection, which she utilized in her undercover work. She recalls her time in Leningrad during winter, describing it as “absolutely beautiful.” However, her cover was blown in 1989, prompting her escape to Botswana with help from Soviet diplomats, ultimately reaching the UK.
Despite historical connections to Russia, Dobson acknowledges she lacks the context to comment meaningfully on Russia’s current invasion of Ukraine. Interestingly, among African nations, only half condemned Russia at the UN during the onset of the war in 2022. Scholars attribute this trend to Russia’s long-standing advocacy for anti-imperialist movements.
Historically, Russia supported anti-colonial causes during the Scramble for Africa, notably backing Ethiopia against Italy during the 1895-96 war. However, the extent of Russian involvement has been exaggerated, with resources often failing to reach the required destinations in time. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union provided aid to various African nations but did not always succeed.
Analyst Kimberly St Julian-Varnon highlights that the USSR’s support for decolonization in the Global South served both ideological and practical goals, aiming to showcase socialism as superior while securing trade benefits. Additionally, the Patrice Lumumba University in Moscow offered scholarships to African students, drawing many despite reports of racism.
The ANC has forged a significant relationship with Russia, recognizing its past support in the struggle against apartheid. While the ANC currently maintains a neutral stance towards Russia’s actions, many senior members retain ties to Moscow from their earlier political education.
Grassroots sentiments in South Africa increasingly display pro-Russian attitudes, as seen in counterprotests by supporters waving Russian flags. Russia’s appeal also stems from its debt forgiveness for several African nations and insecurity proposals in regions like Mali. Polianichev states that the allure of Russia’s anti-colonial narrative persists as it aligns with local political sensibilities, though its past actions raise questions regarding its sincerity.
Russia’s anti-colonial narrative resonates with South African public sentiment, shaped by historical ties and past support against apartheid. This growing sympathy is reflected in grassroots movements and diplomatic ties, despite the current geopolitical climate, leading to mixed reactions towards Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The historical context of anti-imperialist support by Russia continues to influence contemporary public opinion in Africa, as political preferences shift.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
