Secretary-General Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

27 April 2026

New York UN

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on the situation in South Africa

Statements | Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Delivered by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General On the occasion of South Africa’s Freedom Day, the Secretary‑General extends his warm greetings to the people and Government of South Africa as they commemorate a defining moment in the country’s history and reflect on the hard‑won values of freedom, dignity, equality and human rights that underpin the nation’s democratic Constitution.

At the same time, the Secretary‑General is deeply concerned by reports of xenophobic attacks and acts of harassment and intimidation against migrants and foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, including in KwaZulu‑Natal and Eastern Cape Province.

He strongly condemns these criminal acts perpetrated by individuals inciting violence and exploiting socio-economic conditions. Violence, vigilantism and all forms of incitement to hatred have no place in an inclusive, democratic society governed by the rule of law and respect for human rights.

The Secretary‑General recalls that South Africa’s struggle against apartheid was sustained through international and African solidarity, and that the country’s social and economic development has long been shaped by the coexistence and contributions of people from South Africa, the African continent and beyond. He notes the clear public messages by South African authorities reaffirming that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands and that those responsible for criminal acts will be investigated and held accountable in accordance with the law. The investigations must be prompt, thorough, independent and impartial.

Acknowledging the complex socio‑economic challenges and its impact on social cohesion including with migrant and refugee communities, a challenge shared by many nations globally, the Secretary‑General underscores that addressing these concerns must always be conducted lawfully, without discrimination and in a manner that upholds the human rights and dignity of all people. He welcomes the Government’s commitment to rooting out corruption within immigration systems, the implementation of the National Action Plan against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, follow-up to recommendations made through the UN human rights mechanisms, and ensuring that law enforcement remains the sole arbiter of justice.

The United Nations stands ready to continue engaging in efforts to de‑escalate tensions, counter incitement, protect those at risk and strengthen social cohesion. The Secretary‑General underscores that sustained community engagement, respect for human rights, responsible leadership and accountability are essential to prevent further violence and to preserve peace and stability.

Statements on 27 April 2026

Statements on 27 April 2026

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• Mr. Bruno Georges Lemarquis - Deputy Special Representative in UNAMA and Resident Coordinator in Afghanistan
• Deputy Secretary-General's remarks at the Opening Plenary of the 'Women Deliver' Conference [as prepared for delivery]

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