One in eight South Africans say they have taken part in “violent action” against immigrants; almost as many say they would be prepared to do so
Save time by listening to our audio articles as you multitaskThey have not always felt welcome. Xenophobic locals occasionally attacked immigrants in the 1990s in poor urban areas like Alexandra, and there was more widespread violence against foreigners in 2008. In general, however, South African politicians have refrained from inciting such horrors. Unfortunately, that is changing. Today politicians from several parties are vying to see who can blame immigrants most loudly for the country’s.
Vigilante groups are growing in strength. They spread wild rumours on social media. They stomp around townships, demanding to check foreigners’ identity documents. Sometimes, they inflict mob justice. Astonishingly, one in eight South Africans say they have taken part in “violent action” against immigrants; almost as many say they would be prepared to do so.
It is perhaps not surprising that friction arises between immigrants and poor South Africans. Tensions are common in many countries, especially during hard times. And life in the rainbow nation is certainly hard. The official unemployment rate is 35%. Prices of food and fuel are rising. The politicians in charge of many towns have proved better at looting than supplying public services.
So instead of scapegoating people who cannot vote, the government should try to govern better: by curbing corruption, improving public services and making South Africa an easier place to do business. More specifically, to restore public confidence in its immigration system it should get a grip on its borders, by firing the crooked officials who wave people across illicitly.
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