South Africa is facing renewed criticism over its handling of xenophobic violence as anti-migrant protests and attacks intensify in several communities. Researchers and advocacy groups argue that migrants are being scapegoated for deeper structural challenges, including unemployment, overcrowded services, and inadequate housing. Wits University researcher Loren Landau contends that blaming migrants deflects attention from the country’s real problems and weakens democratic norms. While government officials—including Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola—have condemned the violence and cautioned against civilian immigration enforcement, activist groups such as Operation Dudula continue to push for mass deportations. According to these groups, undocumented migration strains jobs and healthcare systems. The growing tensions have also alarmed neighboring African governments and migrant communities, many of whom now fear violence could escalate in Africa’s most industrialized economy.
DW