South Africa: Anti-immigrant protest planned in Soweto, Johannesburg Feb. 27

Event

Activists associated with 'Operation Dudula' plan to protest in Soweto, Johannesburg on Feb. 27. Participants will gather at 10:00 at the Diepkloof Extreme Park. The protests are organized to denounce the employment of foreign nationals in the South African economy. A related protest was reported in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, on Feb. 19, during which several hundred participants marched to call for the employment of South Africans, prompting transport disruptions.

Heightened security and localized business and transport disruptions are likely at the protest site Feb. 27. Officials may close some roads to accommodate the protests. While clashes are unlikely, they remain possible if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse. Violence is also possible if counter-protests occur.

Context

High levels of unemployment and poverty have exacerbated anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa, particularly in low-income areas. In recent years, various cycles of protests and acts of violence have occurred; these have typically targeted migrants from neighboring Southern African states seeking employment opportunities in South Africa. The presence of large numbers of both legal and illegal migrants has increased tensions, particularly in low-income areas where competition for employment is high. While the 'Dudula' campaign remains localized, the potential exists for the movement to gain wider support in Gauteng and, possibly, elsewhere in the country.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a standard precaution. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations Feb. 27. Leave the area at the first sign of confrontation.