‘Extreme fear’ among immigrants as backlash sweeps South Africa
African migrants say legal status offers little protection as rallies against illegal immigration gain momentum
TL;DR
- African migrants in South Africa report living in 'extreme fear' due to a rise in xenophobic sentiment and protests demanding the exit of illegal immigrants.
- Mozambique reported five citizens killed in 'xenophobic attacks' in late May, with South African police confirming deaths of Mozambicans and a South African during violence in Mossel Bay.
- Migrants from Mozambique and Malawi sought shelter in Kleinmond town hall after an angry crowd demanded foreigners leave an informal settlement.
- Several African governments are arranging flights for citizens to leave South Africa, while many migrants express a desire to return home.
- Protest group March & March has given illegal immigrants until June 30 to leave the country.
- The proportion of South Africans willing to welcome immigrants has fallen, coinciding with a rise in unemployment.
- South Africa's foreign-born population has grown significantly, though it still represents a small percentage of the total population.
- Political parties are attempting to capitalize on anti-immigrant sentiment ahead of elections.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged a tougher crackdown on illegal immigration and corruption but warned against using legitimate concerns to incite lawlessness.
- Migrants with residency permits express stress and uncertainty about their situation.