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The August 2023 issue of the Peace and Security Council Report by the Institute for Security Studies examines the African Union's (AU) struggle to prevent unconstitutional changes of government (UCGs), the need to reform the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), the recruitment of child soldiers by ISWAP in the Lake Chad Basin, and the outcomes of the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit.

This report analyzes South Africa's election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the 2019–2020 term. It examines the current geopolitical dynamics of the Council, the expectations placed on South Africa as a regional power, and provides strategic recommendations for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to maximize the country's international visibility and influence.

This research paper examines the rise of transnational organised crime (TCOs) as a global security threat, analyzing how globalisation and the erosion of state authority have facilitated the growth of criminal networks. It explores the relationship between TCOs and various state types—particularly weak and transitional states—and provides a typology of state roles in facilitating or combating illicit activities. The document details the operational characteristics of TCOs, including their use of ethnic networks and risk management strategies, and assesses the specific threats they pose to national security, financial systems, and human rights.

A comprehensive record of the criminal trial of Dr. Wouter Basson, former head of the apartheid-era chemical and biological warfare programme known as Project Coast. The trial, which took place between October 1999 and April 2002, involved 67 charges including fraud, murder, conspiracy to murder, and drug trafficking. The proceedings detailed the use of front companies, the manufacture of incapacitants and toxins, and alleged human rights violations. Dr. Basson was ultimately found not guilty on all remaining charges on April 11, 2002.

This report by Natural Justice and Kalpavriksh analyzes the legal and institutional frameworks affecting Indigenous peoples’ and local communities’ conserved territories and areas (ICCAs). It identifies systemic threats to these areas, including a lack of legal recognition for customary land rights and the imposition of exclusionary conservation models. While noting positive developments in international law and specific national initiatives, the report argues that state institutions often continue to undermine ICCAs through discriminatory legislation and inaccessible judicial systems. It provides comprehensive recommendations for governments and international bodies to recognize the self-determination of Indigenous peoples and support the integrity of ICCAs through both legal reform and non-legal support mechanisms.

This briefing by Natural Justice analyzes the legal and institutional frameworks affecting Territories and Areas of Conservation by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (TICCAs). It examines the gap between international human rights standards and national implementation, highlighting how fragmented laws and a lack of recognition for customary land rights undermine the ability of Indigenous and local communities to maintain the ecological integrity of their territories.

This document is a submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment, provided by a coalition including Natural Justice and Forest Peoples Programme. It outlines the critical role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) in biodiversity conservation, highlighting successful local practices, systemic barriers such as 'fortress conservation' and non-recognition of land rights, and the increasing risks faced by environmental defenders.

This document, a chapter from 'Natural Capitalism', argues for a fundamental shift in business and economic models to prioritize resource productivity and the preservation of natural and social capital. It critiques the polarized nature of environmental debates and proposes a 'whole-system' approach that integrates diverse worldviews to ensure long-term economic and ecological viability.

This report documents a roundtable held in Johannesburg in June 2014, focused on revitalising multilateral trade negotiations within the World Trade Organization (WTO) following the 2013 Bali package. The discussions centered on the rise of mega-regional trade agreements, the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the future of the Doha Development Agenda (DDA), agricultural impasses, and the integration of African economies into Global Value Chains (GVCs).

This research paper by Mzukisi Qobo examines the global and domestic landscape of beneficial ownership transparency, focusing on the implementation of G20 High-Level Principles. It analyzes the challenges faced by South Africa and other African nations in curbing illicit financial flows (IFFs), money laundering, and corruption, while reviewing the regulatory approaches of several G20 member states.

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) analyzes bilateral trade between Ethiopia and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) from 1995 to 2012. It finds that while trade has increased significantly, particularly with China and India, the relationship remains a typical 'North-South' pattern where Ethiopia exports primary products and imports manufactured goods and machinery.

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) examines the trade relations between Nigeria and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). The study analyzes trade intensity, complementarity, and the resulting impact on Nigeria's GDP, concluding that while Nigeria maintains trade surpluses with several BRICS members, its exports are heavily concentrated in crude oil, and its economic growth is significantly influenced by imports from China and exports to South Africa.

This research paper by Shada Islam, published by the South African Institute of International Affairs in May 2009, examines the European Union's (EU) use of 'strategic partnerships' to increase its global political influence. The author argues that while these agreements boost the EU's visibility, they often lack substance and are hindered by internal EU divisions, a reliance on 'soft power' over military capabilities, and diverging geostrategic interests with partners such as China and India.

This policy brief examines the role of emerging powers, specifically the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) and IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) forums, in the evolution of South–South co-operation. The author analyzes whether these alliances serve as genuine champions for the developing world or as self-serving entities pursuing global economic dominance. The document argues that for these forums to effectively challenge neo-liberal globalisation and benefit the most vulnerable regions, particularly Africa, they must move beyond political rhetoric toward inclusive, practical action plans and transparent mandates.

This policy briefing examines South Africa's role as the host and president of the 17th session of the Conference of Parties (COP 17) to the UNFCCC in November and December 2011. It analyzes the geopolitical challenges of the climate negotiations, South Africa's efforts to coordinate a common African voice, its participation in the BASIC alliance, and the necessity of aligning its domestic climate policies with its international leadership ambitions.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on South Africa, arguing that FDI does not automatically guarantee economic growth or job creation. The author suggests that the government should prioritize public investment in economic infrastructure and industrialization over the mere attraction of FDI, particularly in sectors like retail where large foreign entities may displace local businesses.

This policy briefing analyzes the evolution of Brazilian foreign policy in the 21st century, specifically under President Luiz 'Lula' da Silva. It examines Brazil's efforts to balance its role as a regional leader in South America with its ambitions as a global player, emphasizing its commitment to multilateralism, the reform of international institutions, and the use of soft power to promote democratic governance.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) analyzes South Africa's role as the host of the 2013 BRICS Summit. It examines how South Africa can leverage its membership in the BRICS group to advance its own national interests and promote the development and industrialization of Africa, while navigating the complexities of regional leadership and the predominantly bilateral nature of BRICS-Africa economic engagements.

This policy brief by Andre W. Cooper examines how middle-power countries recalibrate their diplomatic strategies in a multipolar global environment. It contrasts the approaches of the MIKTA grouping, South Africa's alignment with BRICS, and Canada's shift from broad multilateralism toward a more consolidated focus on strategic Western allies.

The G20 Energy Access Action Plan is a multi-phase voluntary collaboration framework designed to strengthen G20 member cooperation on energy access. The first phase specifically targets improving electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa through six strategic pillars: policy and regulatory environments, technology deployment, investment and finance, capacity building, regional integration, and coordination. The plan emphasizes sharing knowledge and good practices while respecting the sovereign right of nations to determine their own energy mix.