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This article discusses the accessibility of archival materials in Russia related to the Cold War and the liberation struggle in Southern Africa. The Russian State Archive of the Modern History and the Foreign Policy Archive of the Russian Federation house important documents on Moscow's relations with South Africa and political organizations in that country. The article also mentions the publication of a comprehensive collection of archive documents on Russia-Africa ties and a book on the history of Soviet Union's relations with South Africa. The author disagrees with some interpretations in these works and highlights the importance of a joint Russian-South African project on historical memory about solidarity in the fight against Apartheid. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the impact of the end of the Cold War on resolving conflicts and political changes in various regions. It discusses examples such as the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, South Africa's transition to democracy, and the paramilitary ceasefires in Northern Ireland. The article acknowledges the complexity and controversy surrounding these issues, presenting different perspectives on the role of external parties and the timing of peace processes. It specifically highlights the connection between the end of the Cold War and the political changes in South Africa, emphasizing the significant impact it had on the country's transition to democracy. [Extracted from the article]

This Research Note provides background information on how to access records held by South Africa's Department of Defence and Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). Both repositories in Pretoria, the nation's executive capital, hold considerable documentation of interest to scholars of the Cold War. The Note outlines the locations of the two facilities, working conditions, and policies that govern the release of their materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]