Impact of the 21st Century Economic Crisis in Europe on South Africa

The European Union (EU) has long been considered as one of South Africa?s main trading partners. Although the trading agreements have been able to sustain South Africa?s Economic development, the poor state of her economy from mid 2000 as a result of the crisis in Europe, has caused a shift in her international economic relations. This paper draws from a unique set of reports of the regional bloc data base of SADC and BRICS, detailing the changing character of South Africa?s international relations during the Economic crisis and the potential effects of the change on South Africa and her international partners. The analysis identifies an increasing international cooperation between South Africa, SADC and BRICS not cancelling her trading links with the EU. The thesis argues that international relations will no longer be the same again as the present international system is adjusting itself to meet with the economic needs of the emerging new world order.