Why Does Xenophobia Happen in South Africa
What is called xenophobia?
Xenophobia is the fear and hatred of strangers or foreigners, or of anything perceived as strange or foreign.
Where does the word “xenophobia” come from?
The word “xenophobia” is made up of two ancient Greek words: xenos, which can mean “stranger” or “guest,” and phobos, which can mean “flight” or “fear.”
Why does xenophobia happen in South Africa?
In South Africa, xenophobic attacks occurred as a result of displeasure with existing socioeconomic challenges such as unemployment, poverty, income inequality, access to property, and high crime rates.
What was the principal cause of xenophobia in South Africa?
The oppression of the other race, particularly the black race, was the principal cause of xenophobia, which caused some to be closed-minded, to mistrust, and remain suspicious of foreigners.
When did xenophobia become prevalent in South Africa?
Since 2008, South Africans have unleashed lethal waves of xenophobia on African migrants.
Where in South Africa is xenophobia most prevalent?
In South Africa, xenophobia is most prevalent in Gauteng, Durban, and Mpumalanga.
How does unemployment lead to xenophobia in South Africa?
People who are unemployed or poor are likely to be confused and desperate, even to the point of developing hatred for successful foreign nationals, believing that these foreign nationals are stealing their jobs.
Does xenophobia still exist in South Africa?
According to World Report 2021, despite the government’s launch of the National Action Plan (NAP) to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, and Xenophobia in 2019, South Africa continues to experience incidents of xenophobic violence against non-nationals.
What are the consequences of xenophobic violence in South Africa?
1. Loss of life
2. Injuries
3. Unemployment/loss of livelihood
4. Irreversible property damage
How can xenophobia in South Africa be eradicated?
The government and police must ensure that proper police investigations of xenophobic crimes are conducted and that those responsible for such crimes are arrested and jailed.
