South Africa: South Africans and Migrants - Study Tracks the Barriers to Being Good Neighbours
[The Conversation Africa] South Africa has made strides in integrating immigrants into local communities. The country is home to an estimated 2.4 million to 3.1 million foreign-born residents. This represents roughly 4% to 5.1% of the total population.
South Africa has seen an influx of immigrants, estimated at 2.4 million to 3.1 million, making up 4% to 5.1% of the total population. Despite efforts at integration, suspicion and tensions between locals and immigrants persist, as evidenced by the increase in xenophobic violence and protests. A recent study by an African art historian examined residents' satisfaction with their neighbours and neighbourhoods, focusing on Arcadia in Pretoria, Yeoville in Johannesburg, and Plastic City in Pretoria East.
The research revealed that mutual suspicion and prejudice hinder neighbourhood relations. While many locals had good relationships with legally residing immigrants, their views were less positive towards undocumented immigrants. Immigrants perceived locals as suspicious, assuming them to be criminals due to undocumented status. Trust between the groups was eroded by such perceptions.
Recommendations included organising frequent dialogues to promote social integration, as requested by local officials and participants.
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