What are the reasons for the rise in anti-immigrant protests in South Africa?

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

South Africa is experiencing a rising wave of anti-immigrant protests, fueled by public anger related to high unemployment, slowing economic growth, and declining public services.

Some anti-immigration groups accuse undocumented migrants of taking jobs, putting pressure on hospitals, schools and government services, as well as blaming them for rising crime rates in some areas.

The unemployment and poverty crisis is at the forefront of the scene.

Unemployment is one of the most prominent challenges facing South Africa, as the country suffers from high rates of poverty and economic inequality, which has led to a growing sense of frustration among large segments of the population.

Many protesters believe that foreign labor affects employment opportunities and wages, especially in low-income sectors and the informal economy, which has contributed to the rise of anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Anti-immigration groups set a deadline for departure

Recent months have seen increased activity by anti-immigrant groups calling on undocumented foreigners to leave the country before June 30, raising fears of violence and unrest in a number of cities.

These groups say the state has failed to control the borders and combat irregular migration, while the government maintains that enforcing immigration laws is solely the responsibility of official institutions.

Official data challenges some of the accusations.

Despite the widespread accusations against immigrants, official data indicates that immigrants represent a limited percentage of South Africa's population, and many studies have found no evidence to support their responsibility for high crime or unemployment rates.

Experts believe that economic problems, poor services, corruption and unemployment are the main causes of the social crisis, while immigrants are being blamed for deeper and more complex crises.

Fears of a repeat of the violence

The current developments bring to mind the waves of violence against foreigners that South Africa witnessed during the years 2008, 2015 and 2019, which resulted in deaths and the displacement of thousands of migrants.

In recent weeks, thousands of migrants have left their homes or taken refuge in temporary shelters, while some African countries have begun organizing operations to repatriate their citizens who wish to leave the country.

The government calls for calm.

President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa’s problems cannot be solved by targeting immigrants or blaming them for economic challenges, emphasizing the need to respect the law and prevent any acts of violence or incitement.

Authorities have also strengthened security measures in a number of cities in anticipation of any unrest, while calls continue for dialogue and addressing the economic and social causes that are fueling the current tensions.