South Africa Faces Fresh Questions Over Treatment of African Migrants

Growing anti-migrant pressure raises concerns across the continent

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — Tensions surrounding migrants in South Africa are once again attracting attention across Africa, with human rights groups warning about intimidation and attacks against foreign nationals.

Migrants from different African countries have faced pressure as South Africa deals with concerns over unemployment, undocumented migration and competition for economic opportunities.

Nigerians are among the African nationals affected by the situation.

Amnesty International has raised concerns over vigilante groups targeting migrants and foreign-owned businesses.

The issue has also created tension between South Africa and other African countries.

Nigeria and Ghana have previously condemned anti-immigrant attacks in South Africa and called for greater attention to what they describe as anti-African sentiment.

For many migrants, South Africa has been more than just a destination for work.

It has become home.

Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Mozambicans, Malawians and citizens of other African countries have built businesses, careers and families in the country.

But the recent pressure has forced some to reconsider whether they can continue living and working there safely.

The situation also raises a larger question about African integration.

The African Union has long promoted the idea of greater movement of people, goods and services across the continent.

But events in South Africa show how difficult that goal can become when economic pressure and migration concerns meet.

The challenge for governments is to deal with illegal migration and economic problems without turning ordinary African migrants into targets.

South Africa remains one of the continent’s biggest economies.

How it handles the current tensions could have consequences far beyond its borders.