UN Urges South Africa to Step Up Action Against Xenophobic Violence

The United Nations has called on South African authorities to take stronger and sustained measures to curb rising cases of xenophobia in the country, amid renewed concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over reports of discrimination and violence linked to anti-immigrant sentiments, stressing the need for governments to protect the dignity and rights of all people regardless of nationality.

He warned that xenophobia, racism, and related intolerance continue to fuel instability and undermine social cohesion in many societies, including South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically faced hostility.

Guterres urged authorities to reinforce policies that promote inclusion, equality, and respect, while ensuring that perpetrators of xenophobic violence are held accountable under the law.

He also called for broader global cooperation to address the root causes of discrimination and to strengthen efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable migrant communities.

The UN chief’s appeal comes as international attention continues to focus on incidents of xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa, which have drawn concern from governments, rights groups, and regional organizations.