MIGRANT LIVES| Xenophobia in Mandela's Country

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Hi, how are you? Welcome to Living among Cultures, from the Canary Islands to the world, when it's 

Stories of struggle, resilience and hope of migrants seeking a better future, facing cultural, legal and personal challenges in new horizons. 

There is a troubling phenomenon of anti-immigrant violence and discrimination in South Africa, a nation globally celebrated for its peaceful transition from apartheid and its iconic leader, Nelson Mandela, who stood for human rights, unity, and inclusion.

South Africa has experienced several waves of xenophobic attacks, particularly targeting African immigrants from countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Nigeria, Malawi, and Somalia. These attacks often involve violence, looting of foreign-owned businesses, and displacement.

Key Causes:

1. Economic hardship – High unemployment and poverty rates lead many locals to perceive immigrants as competitors for jobs and services.

2. Weak government response – A lack of accountability and law enforcement often emboldens perpetrators.

3. Political scapegoating – Some politicians blame immigrants for crime and economic woes.

4. Urban inequality – Informal settlements and under-serviced urban areas become flashpoints due to overcrowding and poor infrastructure.

Obviously, there are contradictions with Mandela’s Legacy:

Nelson Mandela championed Ubuntu, the philosophy of shared humanity, and fought for a non-racial, inclusive society. Xenophobia, especially against fellow Africans, starkly contradicts his vision. 

And that concludes this today's episode, see you in the next one!

If you have any comments or suggestions for future episodes, feel free to drop me a comment.

Patricia López Muñoz

Higher Technician in Sociocultural Dynamisation

Specialist in Immigration

Higher Technician in Social Integration