South Africa challenges WHO's account of migrant killings amid rising anti-immigrant tensions.

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   South Africa Rejects WHO Claims on Migrant Deaths

   The South African Presidency has dismissed assertions from the World Health Organization regarding deaths of African migrants. President Ramaphosa has promised action to address concerns over undocumented migration. This follows a period of increasing anti-immigrant sentiment.

   What's confirmed:

   • The South African Presidency rejected claims from the World Health Organization regarding migrant fatalities.
   • President Ramaphosa promised to act on concerns over undocumented migration.
   • Anti-immigrant sentiment has risen in South Africa.
   confidence 100%
2. 1d ago

   South Africa disputes WHO report on xenophobic deaths

   The South African Presidency has rejected claims from a World Health Organization official regarding migrant fatalities. Government officials state that law enforcement is currently investigating the incidents. Public reports on these cases have already been released.

   What's confirmed:

   • The South African government is challenging the World Health Organization's characterization of violence against foreign nationals.
   • Law enforcement agencies are investigating the matter and have reported details publicly.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • A WHO official claimed 10 people were killed in xenophobia-related incidents.
   • Mobilizing civic society and other political parties could help combat anti-foreigner hysteria.
   confidence 90%
3. 2d ago

   South Africa disputes WHO death toll for migrant killings

   The South African government is challenging the World Health Organization over claims regarding fatalities linked to anti-migrant violence. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation intends to correct what it calls inaccurate portrayals of the death toll. Meanwhile, the UN has acknowledged community concerns over socioeconomic conditions affecting social cohesion.

   What's confirmed:

   • The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is challenging international statements and the World Health Organization regarding fatalities linked to the immigration crisis.
   • The Presidency has described reports from global bodies regarding immigration challenges as misinformation.
   • WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made claims regarding xenophobic killings that South Africa has rejected.
   • The UN recognized concerns from communities about socioeconomic conditions and social cohesion.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Investigations suggest some reported deaths in Mossel Bay were unrelated organized crime hits.
   • WHO statements claimed 10 people were killed in xenophobic violence.
   confidence 90%
4. 2d ago

   South Africa’s migrant crisis worsens as deportations surge, protests spread, and global warnings mount

   South Africa’s anti-immigrant violence has forced thousands to flee or return home, while authorities ramp up deportations. Over 120 organizations are pushing for a national campaign to ease tensions, but foreign governments warn citizens of rising security risks. Nigeria has threatened retaliation, and migrant deadlines are deepening fear. The crisis is damaging South Africa’s reputation and straining regional relations.

   What's confirmed:

   • South Africa repatriated 2,745 foreign nationals in the past week as part of intensified enforcement under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s stricter immigration measures.
   • Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom have all warned their citizens about heightened security risks in South Africa, citing violent crime and anti-immigration protests.
   • Over 120 community groups, trade unions, and civil society organizations have launched a national campaign to address the escalating immigration crisis and prevent further violence.
   • Nigeria has issued its strongest warning yet over the treatment of its citizens in South Africa, with tensions likely to escalate at the African Union.
   • Migrants, including families like a 36-year-old Malawian mother of triplets, report deepening trauma and uncertainty as anti-immigrant sentiment rises and protest groups impose deadlines.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • A 'looming deadline' imposed by protest groups is allegedly intensifying fear among undocumented migrants, though the exact terms or enforcement of such a deadline remain unconfirmed.
   confidence 98%
5. 3d ago

   South Africa disputes WHO migrant death toll amid xenophobic violence surge

   South Africa is challenging the World Health Organization’s reporting on migrant killings, accusing it of inaccuracies, while xenophobic attacks force thousands to flee or seek repatriation. Labour unions have urged workers to avoid anti-migrant protests, and the violence is damaging the country’s international image. Multiple African nations are now repatriating citizens, and clashes between migrants and police have escalated at deportation sites.

   What's confirmed:

   • South Africa’s government has accused the World Health Organization of providing an inaccurate account of migrant killings, announcing plans to engage directly with WHO to correct the narrative.
   • Xenophobic attacks have led to the repatriation of citizens by several African countries, including Kenya, where 50 nationals have sought immediate return to avoid further violence.
   • South African labour unions have issued statements urging workers to avoid participating in anti-migrant protests, framing the violence as contrary to national unity.
   • Police in South Africa have used rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse migrants protesting near a deportation site where thousands are being processed for removal.
   • The World Health Organization has condemned the xenophobic violence in South Africa, describing it as ‘profoundly heartbreaking’ and calling for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations.
   • South African artists are losing gigs across Africa due to the xenophobic tensions, with cancellations reported in multiple countries as backlash grows.
   • The South African government acknowledges that the violence is harming the country’s international reputation, with officials stating that xenophobic attacks undermine its diplomatic and economic standing.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • State officials in South Africa are allegedly complicit with gangs and vigilante groups responsible for the attacks, though this claim has not been independently verified.
   • The death toll from migrant-related violence may exceed preliminary reports, but no official or secondary source has confirmed higher figures.
   • South Africa’s challenge to WHO could escalate into a broader diplomatic dispute with Western nations over migration policies, though no formal statements from Western governments have been issued.
   confidence 93%