Why Anti-Migrant Attacks Are Increasing in South Africa

The recent surge of anti-migrant attacks in South Africa has sparked alarm across the continent and beyond. Human Rights Watch warns of a new era of xenophobia, but the immediate causes of this wave are complex and ultimately point to deeper structural problems within the country’s economy and society.

Economic inequality is a key driver of these tensions. With an unemployment rate hovering around 30%, millions struggle to access basic services like healthcare and education. Anti-immigrant groups in townships often argue that migrants steal jobs from locals, but this is a false narrative – they are simply scapegoating external enemies for internal failures.

The case of Mpofu, a Zimbabwean former courier who lost his job after being harassed by vigilantes, highlights the human toll of xenophobia. Migrants are driven out of their workplaces and forced to rely on informal labor at reduced wages, perpetuating a cycle of poverty where those most vulnerable become easy targets for both state and non-state actors.

The South African government’s response has been inadequate. Officials claim to protect foreign nationals, but their words ring hollow as vigilantism escalates. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s assertion that targeting migrants is unlawful has not stopped anti-immigrant activists from spreading hate speech on social media or mobilizing street protests.

Critics like Pat Mokgalusi and Jacinta Ngobese Zuma focus on enforcement and stricter identification systems, rather than tackling the underlying drivers of poverty and inequality. This lack of genuine commitment to addressing xenophobia is evident in the government’s review of migration laws, which lacks concrete measures to strengthen border systems and accountability.

The situation in South Africa serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting human rights and failing to address systemic injustices. Zimbabwe’s Foreign Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi’s statement that Harare will not interfere in Pretoria’s internal affairs ignores the fact that xenophobia often reflects broader societal failures.

The Legacy of Apartheid

South Africa’s struggle to come to terms with its apartheid past continues to haunt its present. The country’s constitution and international human rights law protect the right to protest, but this does not mean that violence against migrants is acceptable. Vigilante groups are feeding off the country’s frustrations over unemployment, socioeconomic decline, and inequality gaps.

The normalization of xenophobia as a legitimate form of activism is a worrying trend, particularly given that many incidents go unreported due to fear of retaliation, arrest, or deportation. Anti-immigrant movements like March and March and Operation Dudula are gaining support in some townships and urban areas, suggesting a disturbing shift in public opinion.

What’s at Stake

The consequences of South Africa’s xenophobic backlash extend far beyond its borders. As tensions escalate, regional security concerns grow. Zimbabwe and other neighboring countries have reason to be alarmed not only because their citizens are being targeted but also because the instability this creates can easily spill over into neighboring states.

This crisis highlights a broader failure of African leadership to address migration in a humane and equitable manner. While some countries prioritize strict border control and enforcement, others neglect the root causes of migration – poverty, conflict, and environmental degradation.

The Path Forward

South African leaders must take bold action to address the drivers of xenophobia, including economic inequality, unemployment, and the legacy of apartheid. This requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes human rights, social justice, and sustainable development.

The international community has a role to play as well. By holding South Africa accountable for its commitments under international law and supporting regional efforts to address migration in a humane manner, we can help prevent further violence and promote a more inclusive and equitable future for all. The time for action is now – the status quo will not suffice.