The meeting was convened to address increasing anti migrant sentiment, allegations of human rights violations and growing unrest in communities.
Sandra Makoasha, Commissioner at the SAHRC, said the Commission is concerned about the escalation of tensions. Makoasha said the imbizo aimed to bring together different perspectives, including civil society organisations assisting migrants and groups expressing concerns about undocumented migration.
Makoasha said the objective was to create space for dialogue between groups with differing views in order to better understand the situation and contribute to identifying possible solutions.
The Commission was not part of a separate government meeting involving the justice and security cluster, but has requested engagement with relevant stakeholders, including security structures, to assess preparedness in maintaining law and order.
Makoasha said public frustration appears linked to broader socioeconomic pressures, including unemployment, service delivery challenges and economic conditions. Makoasha said these concerns require attention, but should not lead to targeting vulnerable groups.
The Commission said it distinguishes between legitimate public concerns and conduct that may constitute discrimination or incitement. Makoasha said issues such as misinformation, stereotyping and inflammatory language contribute to tensions and must be addressed.
The imbizo did not present new confirmed cases of human rights violations. However, the Commission said monitoring of media and developments on the ground indicates concerns related to hate speech and incitement.
The SAHRC said it is engaging stakeholders on longer-term responses, involving government institutions, civil society and affected communities. The approach is aimed at addressing underlying causes while promoting accountability.
Makoasha said the Commission is concerned about rhetoric calling for action against foreign nationals outside legal processes. Makoasha said such approaches do not provide solutions to structural challenges and risk increasing tensions.
The Commission has called on law enforcement agencies to manage migration issues within legal frameworks. It has also urged government departments to respond to developments on the ground and address underlying systemic challenges.
Makoasha called for calm and encouraged community leaders, local authorities and civil society organisations to promote respect for the law. The Commission also urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation and to report incidents of violence or incitement through appropriate channels.
The SAHRC said continued engagement is required to address both immediate concerns and longer-term structural issues affecting communities.
–ChannelAfrica–
