The economic and social conditions in which anti-migrant sentiment has exploded in South Africa include high joblessness and a collapse of government services.
Organisations behind the wave of xenophobia use the language of participation, community and people’s power to justify marginalisation.
Several key actions that could help are not yet on the table, including mobilising other political parties as well as civic society to fight anti-foreigner hysteria.
Using billions in public funds for private border security could be the latest chapter in government’s xenophobic fixation.
Scapegoating immigrants will not result in significantly improved healthcare service provision, reduced crime or less unemployment.
