Call for the Urgent Protection of Migrants and Foreign Nationals in South Africa Amid Escalating Violence, Growing Health Risks and Human Rights Violations

The Southern African Doctors for Human Rights (SADHR) and Amnesty International express deep concern over recent reports of discrimination, attacks, intimidation, forced internal displacement and growing hostility affecting foreign nationals in South Africa. These developments present serious human rights, public health and humanitarian concerns that require urgent action by South African authorities.

South Africa has experienced recurring xenophobic violence against foreign nationals over the past two decades, with another upsurge in attacks targeting foreign nationals currently unfolding. Recent incidents include protests, intimidation and attacks on migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, particularly in urban areas, leading to injuries, displacement, destruction of property and reported deaths. The current violence has been linked to tensions driven by long-standing socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, inequality, poverty and service delivery pressures, alongside concerns about migration governance. While these factors have contributed to rising tensions and the emergence of xenophobic sentiments, they do not justify violence, intimidation, discrimination or exclusion against any individual or group.

We note with alarm reports of increasing numbers of migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and other marginalised populations whose lives are being disrupted as they seek refuge in temporary shelters, places of worship, informal gathering points, and other locations amid fears for their safety and uncertainty regarding their future. Such situations have the potential to create significant protection and health-related risks while further exposing already marginalised populations to hardship and insecurity.

The right to life, dignity, health and freedom from discrimination are fundamental human rights that must be safeguarded at all times and for all people, regardless of nationality, migration status or national origin. Acts of violence, intimidation and exclusion directed at migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and other marginalised populations undermine not only the rights of affected persons but also the values of solidarity, coexistence and human dignity which underline the shared history of countries in the Southern African region.

The current situation raises serious concern for public health. Population displacement into temporary shelters will likely interrupt access to essential healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive healthcare, particularly for individuals living with chronic illnesses such as HIV, tuberculosis, diabetes and hypertension. Affected populations may also face increased risks of mental health challenges, gender-based violence, exploitation, as well as inadequate potable water, sanitation and shelter, increasing the risk of communicable diseases.

South African authorities are obligated to ensure continued, non-discriminatory access to essential healthcare services for all affected persons, particularly children and other marginalised groups, in accordance with obligations enshrined in the South African constitution and regional and international human rights treaties to which South Africa is a party.

SADHR and Amnesty International further note that the anticipated movement of affected populations across communities and national borders requires coordinated preparedness measures by relevant authorities. Effective planning is essential to guarantee continuity of healthcare, access to psychosocial support, protection services, including access to fair and efficient asylum processing and the preservation of human dignity for all affected persons.

South Africa's National Action Plan to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance also recognises the importance of promoting social cohesion, equality, human dignity and the rule of law in addressing discrimination and intolerance. The current situation underscores the need for renewed implementation of these commitments through coordinated action by government.