Amb. Heine’s Podcast: Unpacking Human Rights, South Africa’s Leadership, and Global Relevance

Ambassador Jorge Heine, Research Professor at Boston University’s Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies and Interim Director of the Frederick S. Pardee Center for the Study of the Longer-Range Future recently appeared on a podcast with the China Global South Newsletter entitled “What Exactly is the Global South?” where he discussed the selective application of human rights principles by Western countries. It was triggered by the publication of the paperback edition of his book on Active Non-Alignment. Hinee highlighted the contrast between the West’s response to conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, arguing that the former revealed a double standard in the West’s commitment to universal human rights.

He emphasized South Africa’s unique position in addressing the Israel-Palestine issue, citing historical ties and shared experiences of apartheid. Heine also discussed the relevance of his book, “Latin American Foreign Policies in the New World Order: The Active Non-Alignment Option,” beyond Latin America, noting its resonance with global shifts towards non-alignment principles.

Reflecting on South Africa’s leadership role in advocating for human rights in Gaza, Heine stated,

“The leadership role that South Africa is taking by taking this case to the ICJ has generated tremendous admiration, harking back to Nelson Mandela’s legacy and standing up for the values that we all see the new South Africa embodies.”

The podcast can be accessed in full here.