Current news on xenophobia in south africa
Xenophobia in South Africa is a persistent issue that has been ongoing for several years. Here are some recent news articles and updates on the topic:
Recent Incidents:
- In September 2022, a wave of xenophobic attacks broke out in the town of KwaMashu, north of Durban, leaving several foreign nationals injured and their businesses looted. (Source: News24)
- In August 2022, a group of South Africans attacked and looted a foreign-owned shop in the town of Mbombela, Mpumalanga province, causing significant damage and loss of property. (Source: Times Live)
- In July 2022, a foreign national was killed and several others injured in a xenophobic attack in the town of Soweto, Johannesburg. (Source: IOL)
Government Response:
- In response to the recent xenophobic attacks, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the violence and called for calm, saying that "xenophobia has no place in our society." (Source: News24)
- The South African government has also launched a number of initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and understanding between South Africans and foreign nationals, including a national dialogue on xenophobia and a campaign to promote cultural diversity. (Source: SAnews.gov.za)
Public Opinion:
- A recent survey conducted by the South African Institute of Race Relations found that 62% of South Africans believe that foreign nationals are a threat to their jobs and livelihoods, while 45% believe that they are a threat to their safety and security. (Source: IRR.org.za)
- However, many South Africans have also spoken out against xenophobia, with some calling for greater tolerance and understanding towards foreign nationals. (Source: Times Live)
International Reaction:
- The international community has also condemned the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) calling for an end to the violence and for greater protection for foreign nationals. (Source: UNHCR.org)
- The African Union has also called for an end to xenophobia in South Africa, saying that it is a "serious violation of human rights" and a "threat to regional stability." (Source: AU.int)
Long-term Solutions:
- Many experts believe that the root causes of xenophobia in South Africa are complex and multifaceted, and will require a long-term approach to address. (Source: The Conversation)
- Some potential solutions include improving economic opportunities for South Africans, increasing education and awareness about the benefits of diversity, and promoting greater social cohesion and inclusion. (Source: SAnews.gov.za)
Overall, xenophobia remains a significant challenge in South Africa, and will require a sustained effort from government, civil society, and individuals to address.