United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on South Africa to end xenophobic attacks and intimidation targeting foreign nationals, warning that violence and hate have no place in a democratic society.
Guterres, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, expressed deep concern over reported attacks and incitement to violence against migrants in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
The UN chief strongly condemned what he described as criminal acts against foreign nationals and urged South African authorities to take decisive steps to protect affected communities and ensure justice.
“Violence, vigilantism and all forms of incitement to hatred have no place in an inclusive, democratic society,” Guterres said.
He reminded the international community that South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle was rooted in solidarity from across Africa and the wider world, stressing that the country’s history and development have been shaped by contributions from people across the continent.
According to the UN Secretary-General, South Africa’s progress has benefited from migration and regional cooperation, making tolerance and inclusion critical to preserving those gains.
While acknowledging the country’s socio-economic challenges, Guterres welcomed the South African government’s commitment to implementing its National Action Plan against Racism and Xenophobia.
He also called for swift action over recent attacks.
“The Secretary-General urges that all investigations into recent violence against foreign nationals be prompt, independent and impartial,” the statement said.
The UN chief further extended greetings to South Africans as the country marked Freedom Day, using the occasion to reinforce the values of unity, equality and human dignity.
The statement comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of migrants in parts of South Africa, where periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence have drawn condemnation from the international community.
