On Increasing Violations Against Migrants and Refugees in South Africa

As the International Refugee Rights Association, we are closely monitoring with deep concern the developments based on xenophobia targeting migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in South Africa, as well as the increasing risks of human rights violations.

Recent reports indicate that threats, violence, forced evictions, and attacks against migrant and refugee communities have occurred in some areas. Targeting individuals based on their nationality, origin, or migration status is unacceptable.

No economic, social, or political justification can legitimize violations of human dignity, the right to life, and the right to live in safety. Migrants and refugees must not be portrayed as the cause of a society’s structural problems.

We call on the Government of South Africa to ensure the safety of all migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers living in the country; to take effective measures against hate crimes and xenophobia; to investigate human rights violations; and to guarantee access to fundamental rights and services.

Human rights are universal. A person’s nationality, ethnicity, or migration status must never prevent them from enjoying their right to life, security, and human dignity.