2-National Party Statement - Pranav Notes

National Party Goals and Policies (March 29, 1948)

Overview

In a statement by the National Party of South Africa, the party outlines its goals and intended policies should they win the election, categorized into two main thoughts regarding non-European communities:

  • Thought #1: Focus on policies affecting the non-European communities, questioning their role and existence in South Africa.

  • Thought #2: Advocates for equality regardless of race or color, proposing gradual democratic rights for non-Europeans as they qualify.

Stated Goals and Policies

  • Maintenance and Protection of the White Population

    • Aim to protect and preserve the European population as a distinct community.

    • Prohibition of intermarriages between Europeans and non-Europeans.

  • Policy of Separation (Apartheid)

    • Initiation of a separation policy termed "apartheid" (meaning separateness).

    • Justification rooted in Christian principles and the experience of the European population in South Africa.

    • Intent to develop racial groups separately to safeguard white interests.

  • Promotion of Christian Religion

    • Encouragement for non-Europeans to adopt Christian values and lifestyles.

  • Participation in National Development

    • Proposal to integrate non-European racial groups in national interests through full developmental opportunities.

    • Establishment of advisory groups to guide the development of youth.

Justifications for Policies

Rationalization of Goals

  • Existential Crisis of White Survival

    • The National Party argues that only two paths are available:

      • Equality for all races, deemed as a potential threat to the White race's survival.

      • Separation (apartheid), ensuring protection and development without mutual interference.

  • Opposition to Oppression and Exploitation

    • Rejection of any policy that would lead to oppression or exploitation of non-Europeans, emphasizing alignment with Christian ethics.

Development Strategies for Non-Europeans

  • Volkeepbou (Development)

    • Non-European racial groups encouraged to establish their own institutions and social services aiding national development.

  • Algehele Apartheid (Complete Separation)

    • Advocacy for the ideal of complete separation between races at a national level.

  • Position of Colored Community

    • The colored community is seen as situated between White Europeans and Native South Africans.

    • Protection of the colored community from unfair competition with Native South Africans enforced through prohibitions on marriages with Europeans.

Conclusion

The National Party's policies rest on claims of preserving white racial purity while asserting that separation rather than integration is justified. The party positions itself against oppression yet simultaneously imposes restrictions aimed at maintaining the dominance and interests of the White race.