South Africa's response to xenophobia is under fire

Violence targeting migrants from multiple African countries has repeatedly resurfaced in South Africa, including major outbreaks in 2008, 2015, 2016, and 2019. Anti-immigrant protests have grown, prompting diplomatic responses such as Nigeria summoning South Africa’s acting high commissioner. The violence is frequently tied to frustrations over unemployment, crime, overcrowded services, and poor living conditions, with grievances redirected toward migrants. Supporters of Operation Dudula demand stronger enforcement against undocumented migration, while critics argue it increases xenophobic sentiment. A migration researcher argues scapegoating and demonisation divert attention from deeper problems, erode democracy, and put both citizens and foreigners at risk, adding that migrants are too few to substantially affect employment or crime. The government condemns violence and says it is strengthening social cohesion and migration management.

"“The scapegoating and demonisation of migrants merely draw people's attention away from the true source of South Africa's problems and erodes democracy while putting the welfare of many people both our own citizens and foreigners at risk,” Landau said in an article published by Wits on May 21."

"“Migrants are not the source of any of South Africa's challenges. There are too few to make a substantial impact on employment or crime,” he added."

"“The violence is often linked to frustrations over unemployment, crime, overcrowded services and poor living conditions grievances that are frequently redirected toward migrants.”"

"“South Africa's government has said it condemns violence against foreign nationals and is working to strengthen social cohesion and migration management.”"

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