South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a five-part strategy aimed at addressing illegal immigration while condemning xenophobic groups that have fueled anti-foreigner protests across the country.The announcement comes as tensions rise ahead of the 2026 municipal elections and amid continuing demonstrations linked to anti-immigrant movements.

Although Ramaphosa emphasized that misinformation and political opportunism are driving much of the public debate, critics argue that his proposals largely recycle policies and plans that have existed for years without producing meaningful results.

The government’s strategy includes stricter enforcement of immigration and labor laws, the creation of specialized immigration courts to accelerate deportation cases, increased labor inspections, stronger border security, anti-corruption measures within the Department of Home Affairs, legislative reforms affecting foreign workers, and diplomatic engagement with other African countries on migration issues.Ramaphosa also announced plans to relocate refugee reception centers closer to border posts and expand the use of biometric identification systems.

Researchers, migration experts, and human rights organizations have criticized the approach, arguing that it focuses on perceptions rather than evidence and fails to address the root causes of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and insecurity.

Civil society groups have also raised concerns about the legality and human rights implications of relocating refugee centers and imposing employment restrictions based on nationality.

The article notes that migrants represent a relatively small share of South Africa’s population, yet xenophobic violence has repeatedly surged during election periods.

Rights advocates warn that migrants are often used as scapegoats for broader social and economic problems that stem from government failures rather than immigration itself.