Wintermarchen 2010? Die Bedeutung der Fussball-WM fur Sudafrika

In: Welt-Trends: das außenpolitische Journal, Heft 72, S. 27-34

Abstract

This article examines the sociopolitical and economic impact of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Championship for South Africa, and the rest of Africa. The author sets the scene, describing the host nation's outlook and comparing statistical data with other African nations such as Nigeria and Egypt, in terms of population, land area, commercial resources, investment, and GDP. Next, the article explores the significance of the championship for the continent, emanating former South African President Mbeki's sentiment of hope, which will bring about 'a common sense of empowering achievement'. Then the author explores the organizational and political events and mechanisms working toward development and growth in Africa; and discusses international and continental policies regarding security, politics, trade and defense issues in Africa, and in particular, southern Africa, through the UN, African Union (AU), New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and Southern African Development Community (SADC). The article also looks at the aspects of cooperative hegemony, before discussing South Africa's leadership role, and the hopes of building a bridge between the North and South. Finally, the article concludes with some insight re the aftereffects of the FIFA Championship, noting 3 important trends and effects. Maps; Photos, References. M Diem