Statelessness in South Africa
According to the United Nations, “stateless persons are individuals who are not recognised as nationals by any state under the operation of its law” (UNHCR, 2022). This lack of nationality means stateless individuals are often denied the most fundamental human rights including access to education, healthcare, legal employment, and even the right to marry. The UNHCR estimates that 4.4 million people around the world are currently...
Migrant Traders: The Unsung Heroes of South Africa’s Tourism Economy
South Africa’s vibrant tourism industry thrives not only on its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also on the contributions of informal street traders. Many of these traders are migrants, offering unique and affordable goods that attract tourists, generate employment, and support local producers. Yet, despite their undeniable role in the economy, they remain largely unprotected by policy. South Africa's tourism sector presents lucrative opportunities for informal traders. In 2023 alone, the country welcomed R8.48...
Remembering the Sharpeville Massacre: Protecting the Rights of Child Migrants in South Africa
As we commemorate Human Rights Day in South Africa, we remember the tragic events of the Sharpeville massacre on March 21, 1960. On that day, police opened fire on a crowd of protesters, killing 249 people, including 29 children (Lodge, 2011). Today, we honor the memories of those child victims by reflecting on the progress of children's rights in South Africa, particularly for child migrants.
South Africa Ramps Up Border Security: New Measures to Reduce Irregular Immigration
The South African government has decided to improve border security by enhancing and integrating technological systems and adding more law enforcement officers to combat irregular migration and human trafficking and the government has introduced stricter enforcement policies, improved surveillance, and improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms. It is noted that about 672 Border Law Enforcement Officers have been added to high-risk entry points such as land crossings, maritime borders, and international airports
SIHMA Press Review for December 2024 and January 2025
PRESS REVIEW - SOUTH AFRICA 01 - Undocumented foreign learners to be admitted in schools IOL, 01/25/2025 The Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa...
Good news for children of undocumented foreign parents and guardians for their admission into South African schools
CHILDREN of undocumented foreign nationals will not be required to produce any form of identification before registering for admission at any school in South Africa. For decades, undocumented children have been largely excluded from the education system, left on the margins by restrictive policies and legislative gaps. Recent developments signal a monumental shift towards a more inclusive approach, harmonizing South Africa’s laws with international standards and reinforcing undocumented immigrant children's right to basic education.
