On February 7, 2025, the U.S. government announced an executive order in response to South Africa’s Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which allows seizing property from Afrikaners without compensation. This act is seen as part of a larger pattern of disenfranchisement and violence against minority groups. The order prohibits U.S. aid to South Africa and initiates refugee resettlement efforts for affected Afrikaners.
On February 7, 2025, an executive order was issued by the President of the United States to address alarming actions taken by the Republic of South Africa. This order followed the enactment of the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which allows the South African government to confiscate agricultural property from ethnic minority Afrikaners without compensation. This legislative act is part of a broader pattern of policies that undermine equal opportunities across various sectors, alongside increasing violence against marginalized landowners.
Moreover, South Africa’s hostile foreign actions have raised concerns. The government has accused Israel of genocide in the International Court of Justice and has strengthened relations with Iran, facilitating potential military and nuclear developments. Such conduct necessitates a response from the United States to uphold national security and the values of human rights, especially considering the implications for allied relations and U.S. interests in Africa.
In response, the United States has established a firm policy against aiding South Africa while these human rights violations persist. This includes the suspension of all forms of assistance until the government rectifies its unjust actions. Additionally, efforts will be made to facilitate the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees fleeing state-sponsored discrimination.
All executive departments are directed to cease any foreign aid or assistance to South Africa, with agency heads retaining discretionary authority to approve essential aid where necessary. Furthermore, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security are tasked with prioritizing the resettlement and humanitarian relief for Afrikaners subjected to racial discrimination, ensuring access to the United States Refugee Admissions Program.
The order explicitly mentions that it does not interfere with established legal authorities or create enforceable rights against the U.S. government or its agencies. It underlines the importance of adhering to applicable laws and available appropriations in its implementation, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these significant international concerns.
The executive order issued on February 7, 2025, serves as a strong condemnation of the Republic of South Africa’s recent Expropriation Act and its broader policies that infringe upon the rights of Afrikaners. As long as these egregious actions continue, the United States has pledged to withhold aid and support the resettlement of affected individuals, thereby asserting its commitment to human rights and national security objectives. This response underscores the seriousness with which the U.S. government addresses international violations of individual rights and dignity.
Original Source: za.usembassy.gov
