DELEGATES from the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Africa Group have called for stronger continental action against rising xenophobic activities in South Africa.
The calls were made yesterday during the OACPS Africa Group Parliamentary Meeting held at Ezulwini Palazzo ahead of the first Ordinary Plenary Session of the Africa–EU Parliamentary Assembly.
During deliberations on xenophobia and the protection of African migrants in South Africa, delegates proposed that the OACPS Secretariat formally condemn all forms of xenophobia, racism, intimidation and violence targeting African migrants and foreign nationals in South Africa.
A delegate from Sierra Leone moved a motion that, if necessary, the secretariat should engage directly with South African authorities through bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening the protection of African nationals living in that country and preserving regional solidarity.
“We must encourage Pan-Africanism,” he said.
The submission, which other delegates supported, followed growing concern across the continent over reported anti-migrant protests, harassment and vigilante activities associated with groups such as Operation Dudula.
Delegates noted that migrants from several African countries had allegedly faced intimidation, discrimination and difficulties accessing services in some South African communities.
According to a background note tabled before the meeting, xenophobia remains a serious threat to human rights, regional integration and Pan-African cooperation.
Delegates were reminded that the issue had previously been discussed during the 35th Session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Brussels in 2018, where members warned that xenophobia and discrimination were often rooted in prejudice and ignorance.
The note stressed that migration management must be carried out lawfully and by competent state institutions, warning against vigilante conduct and collective punishment of foreign nationals.
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It also called for greater public education campaigns to combat misinformation, prejudice and hostility towards migrants.
The meeting further heard that continental and international bodies, including the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the United Nations, had already expressed concern over reports of xenophobic attacks and intimidation in some parts of South Africa.
Delegates acknowledged that South Africa continues to face major socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, poverty and inequality, but argued that such difficulties should not be allowed to fuel hatred or violence against fellow Africans.
It was noted that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had previously condemned acts of violence and intimidation linked to xenophobia, stating that law enforcement agencies had been directed to act against perpetrators while ensuring the safety of citizens, residents and visitors.
They noted that while states have the sovereign right to regulate migration and enforce immigration laws, such processes must respect human rights, due process and the principles of equality and non-discrimination.
