South Africa migrant crisis: UN warns of rising xenophobia and violence

The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has issued a warning regarding a surge in xenophobia and racist hate crimes against migrants in South Africa. Since the beginning of 2026, the Committee reported that at least 50,000 migrants have been displaced by civilians and organized vigilante groups, and at least four individuals have been unlawfully killed.

Reports indicate a pattern of abductions, looting, destruction of migrant-owned businesses, and unlawful home raids. Migrants have also faced restrictions on accessing essential services like healthcare and education, as well as unlawful evictions by landlords. The Committee noted that these actions violate human rights protected under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

CERD highlighted the role of organized civic movements, specifically naming the Insizwa Nobunsizwa Development Foundation and the March and March movement, for spreading racist rhetoric and harmful stereotypes via social media. The Committee also expressed concern over inadequate law enforcement responses, racial profiling, and the use of excessive force by officials, noting that mistrust of authorities often leads to the underreporting of these crimes.