Xenophobic attacks and marches

Between 1 and 3 September 2019, attacks in parts of Johannesburg and Pretoria included violence against nationals of other African countries, refugees and migrants, as well as damage to businesses. The attacks prompted public condemnation, diplomatic tensions and marches calling for peaceful coexistence and protection of foreign residents.

As in 2008 and 2015, explanations varied by locality. Economic insecurity, criminality, political mobilisation and anti-immigrant prejudice were often entangled; the existence of grievances did not make collective punishment or attacks on migrants legitimate.

Significance

Renewed national and regional debate about migrant rights, policing and the political use of anti-immigrant sentiment.