What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to understand the underlying reasons for anti-immigrant violence in South Africa.

May 25, 2026Open Access

Why do people attack foreigners living in South Africa?: asking ordinary South Africans

Key Points

The research aims to understand the underlying reasons for anti-immigrant violence in South Africa.
Qualitative interviews with ordinary South Africans
Analysis of public perceptions towards immigrants
Exploration of societal and economic factors influencing violence
Identified pervasive sentiments of fear and competition for resources among locals
Highlighted negative impacts on economic integration of migrants
Showed potential strain on South Africa's international relationships in Africa

Abstract

Anti-immigrant violence is one of the major problems facing South Africa. This type of hate crime discourages long-term integration of international migrants and acts as a barrier otherwise economically beneficial population movement. It also sour the country's international relationships on the African continent.

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Cite This Study

Human Sciences Research Council (Sat,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a13e7a80e02ee3982d325cf https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.14749/32381199