FEAR is mounting among migrants in South Africa ahead of planned anti-foreigner protests, as rights groups and authorities warn of potential violence amid rising tensions linked to unemployment, inequality and renewed xenophobic sentiment.
Calls for the protection of foreign nationals have intensified ahead of demonstrations expected tomorrow against undocumented migrants, with concerns growing over the potential for renewed violence and displacement.
South Africa has experienced periodic surges of anti-migrant protests and xenophobic unrest in recent years, often fuelled by high unemployment, economic hardship and pressure on public services. Vigilante groups have in some instances targeted undocumented foreigners, forcing thousands into shelters or prompting repatriation flights organised by their home countries, including Nigeria, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Ghana.
Protests, including marches organised by political parties such as the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party, have at times blamed undocumented migrants for job competition and strained services.
Tensions have previously escalated into deadly violence, with reports of foreign-owned businesses looted and property attacks in provinces including KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
Neighbouring countries, including Zimbabwe, have facilitated evacuation and repatriation for citizens who felt unsafe in recent periods.
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In a joint statement, Southern African Doctors for Human Rights and Amnesty International expressed concern over reports of discrimination, attacks, intimidation, forced displacement and growing hostility toward foreign nationals in South Africa.
They said the violence was linked to long-standing socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, inequality, poverty and service delivery pressures, alongside concerns over migration governance.
“While these factors have contributed to rising tensions and the emergence of xenophobic sentiments, they do not justify violence, intimidation, discrimination or exclusion against any individual or group,” they said.
The organisations warned that increasing displacement of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers was creating protection and health risks for already vulnerable populations.
They said such conditions could disrupt access to essential healthcare, including services for people living with chronic illnesses such as HIV, tuberculosis, diabetes and hypertension.
The groups also warned of heightened risks of mental health challenges, gender-based violence, exploitation and inadequate access to water, sanitation and shelter in displacement settings.
“Women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities and those requiring ongoing medical care are particularly in need of access to essential and specialist services during periods of displacement and instability,” the organisations said.
They urged South African authorities to ensure continued, non-discriminatory access to healthcare and protection services in line with constitutional and international obligations.
The organisations also said persistent inequality rooted in apartheid-era legacies continued to contribute to social tensions and scapegoating that can fuel violence.
South African authorities have not yet issued a detailed response to the planned protests, but security concerns remain heightened as communities brace for possible unrest.