The Countries that Recognized Rhodesia's Unilateral Declaration of Independence in 1965

On November 11, 1965, Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, declared independence from the United Kingdom unilaterally. However, this declaration was only recognized by a few countries. This article explores the main countries that recognized Rhodesia's independence in the 1960s and the geopolitical context behind their decisions.

Recognition by Major Powers

Several countries, including South Africa, Portugal, and Israel, supported Rhodesia's declaration of independence, though they did so for different reasons.

South Africa

The apartheid government in South Africa was one of the primary supporters of Rhodesia's independence. The apartheid regime sought a symbolic ally in Africa that shared its racial and political ideals. By recognizing Rhodesia, South Africa demonstrated its commitment to white supremacy and anti-colonialism, even at the cost of international isolation.

Portugal

At the time, Portugal was engaged in its own colonial struggles in Africa, particularly in Angola and Mozambique. Portugal supported Rhodesia's position as a strategic move to undermine British influence in the region, which was seen as a threat to Portuguese interests. The support from Portugal added to Rhodesia's credibility in the eyes of other African countries during that tense period.

Israel

Israel recognized Rhodesia in the context of its own geopolitical interests. Given its historical and cultural ties to the West, particularly the United Kingdom, Rhodesia provided a potential counterweight to the Arab world. By recognizing Rhodesia, Israel aimed to strengthen its standing in the Western bloc during the Cold War.

Limited Recognition and Challenges

Major Commonwealth nations and those supportive of decolonization did not recognize Rhodesia's unilateral declaration of independence. This lack of broad international recognition contributed to Rhodesia's isolation and economic and political challenges in the following years.

Other nations, including the United States and several European countries, maintained consular offices in Salisbury until 1968. This decision was influenced by economic and strategic interests rather than formal recognition of independence.

Key Events and Challenges

British Withdrawal and Foreign Consuls: In 1968, Rhodesia's defiance, including the execution of five black criminals in defiance of a royal pardon from the Queen, further isolated the country. The British governor, Sir Humphrey Gibbs, withdrew, and most foreign consuls followed suit. This move had a significant impact on Rhodesia's diplomatic presence and international relations.

Rhodesia's Overseas Agents: Rhodesia had a limited overseas presence. An agent general in South Africa and in London handled trade and diplomatic relations. However, the London office closed shortly after the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) in 1965. In 1980, plans to reopen Rhodesia House in London as the Zimbabwe High Commission ended when the key could not be found.

Portugal's Contradictory Stance: Portugal maintained a Consulate General in Salisbury despite Rhodesia's declaration of a republic in 1970. This decision reflected the complex dynamics of colonial interests and the broader geopolitical landscape of the time. Portugal's actions were a strategic move to protect its economic interests in Zimbabwe, despite the formal severance of diplomatic ties.

Conclusion

No countries ever gave de jure diplomatic recognition to Rhodesia, either during its unilateral declaration of independence in 1965 or when it declared itself a republic in 1970. The unique status of Southern Rhodesia as a colony with responsible government allowed it to establish High Commissions in the UK and South Africa, mirroring those in independent Commonwealth countries. South Africa, Portugal, and Israel recognized its independence for different geopolitical reasons, but these recognitions were not official diplomatic acknowledgments of sovereignty.

The lack of widespread recognition confirmed Rhodesia's status as a rebel state, leading to a period of international ostracism and economic sanctions. It was only after the end of white-minority rule and the transition to majority rule in 1980 that Zimbabwe was able to rejoin the international community with formal diplomatic recognition.