The United States has issued an Executive Order responding to South Africa’s Expropriation Act, which enables the seizure of Afrikaner properties without compensation. The U.S. will cease aid to South Africa and promote the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees, citing serious human rights violations and threats to national security as key factors for this policy shift.
On February 7, 2025, an Executive Order was issued by the President of the United States in response to the Republic of South Africa’s newly enacted Expropriation Act 13 of 2024. This legislation allows the South African government to confiscate agricultural properties from ethnic minority Afrikaners without compensation. It reflects a disturbing pattern of policies that undermine equality in various sectors and promote violence against targeted landowners.
The South African government’s actions extend beyond domestic issues, as it has engaged in hostile rhetoric towards the United States and its allies. This includes accusations against Israel regarding genocide, and strengthening ties with Iran for military and nuclear development. Such foreign policy decisions raise significant national security concerns for the United States and its partners.
The Executive Order establishes that the United States will not provide any aid or assistance to South Africa as long as these violations of human rights persist. Furthermore, it advocates for resettling Afrikaner refugees who are fleeing government-sanctioned discrimination, particularly focusing on property confiscation based on race.
As part of this initiative, all U.S. executive agencies are directed to cease foreign aid to South Africa to the fullest extent permissible by law. Agency heads possess the discretion to make exceptions for aid deemed necessary or appropriate. This approach aims to effectively counter the repercussions of South Africa’s unjust policies.
Additionally, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security are tasked with prioritizing the admission and resettlement of Afrikaner individuals who have suffered from racial discrimination in South Africa. A formal plan for the resettlement process will be submitted to the President, ensuring humanitarian considerations are addressed.
The Executive Order underscores the United States’ stance against the human rights violations being perpetrated by the South African government, particularly through the Expropriation Act which facilitates racially discriminatory property seizures. The suspension of aid, alongside the imperative to assist Afrikaner refugees, highlights the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and providing humanitarian support in response to unjust government actions.
Original Source: za.usembassy.gov
