United States Executive Order Addressing Discriminatory Actions of South Africa

On February 7, 2025, an Executive Order was enacted by the President of the United States in response to South Africa’s Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which allows the confiscation of Afrikaner land without compensation. The United States will cease aid, promote Afrikaner refugee resettlement, and prioritize humanitarian actions as long as discriminatory policies persist.

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 Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which permits the seizure of property from ethnic minority Afrikaners without compensation. This legislation exemplifies a troubling trend in South Africa, as it follows various discriminatory policies undermining equal opportunities across employment, education, and business sectors. Furthermore, inflammatory rhetoric has led to increased violence against these targeted landowners.

The policy outlines the United States’ stance against South Africa’s actions, citing that the country has also adopted hostile tactics towards the United States and its allies. For instance, South Africa accused Israel of genocide while strengthening ties with Iran to pursue military and nuclear cooperation. In light of these developments, the United States deems it imperative to cease all support for the South African government.

The policy mandates that aid and assistance to South Africa be halted as long as these practices persist. This includes not only a stoppage of foreign aid but also efforts to facilitate the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees fleeing systematic discrimination and property confiscation. Agencies are directed to utilize their legal powers to suspend any humanitarian support until a change occurs in South African policy.

The executive order requires the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security to prioritize humanitarian actions by ensuring resettlement opportunities for affected Afrikaners. Such measures will leverage the United States Refugee Admissions Program and will be presented to the President for assessment through the Homeland Security Advisor.

Additionally, the order emphasizes that it does not limit the authority of existing laws concerning the functions of executive departments or budgetary procedures. It is designed to respect existing legal frameworks while clarifying that this order establishes no enforceable rights against the United States or its entities.

The Executive Order articulates a firm stance by the United States against the Republic of South Africa’s recent discriminatory policies, particularly those targeting Afrikaners. As long as South Africa persists in these actions, the United States will withhold support and focus on aiding those affected by the unjust practices. The order highlights a commitment to humanitarian principles and the safeguarding of human rights.

Original Source: za.usembassy.gov