Foundation for Human Rights statement on xenophobic violence

The Government of South Africa must realise its constitutional mandate to promote and protect the rights of all people living in South Africa and to uphold their dignity, regardless of their legal status. We therefore urgently call upon government, leadership and other key stakeholders including business to commit itself to a sustainable programme of action to combat xenophobia.

Practical measures should include ending the violence and the displacement, establishing a rapid response mechanism as well as early warning signals. We commend the courageous individuals and communities who have stepped forward to stop the violence and create safe spaces. It is our collective responsibility to take proactive action to put in place practical measures for government to take action against those who violate the rights of others. Impunity must not be allowed to prevail.

We call for an immediate end to the senseless violence which has led to a loss of life and injuries to the vulnerable. We call upon the government to end the impunity which makes the violence possible and all stakeholders to take action to combat xenophobia and to promote a safe South Africa.