Topic analysis

South Africa: A timeline of recurring waves of xenophobic violence

South Africa has experienced recurring waves of xenophobic violence targeting primarily African migrants over nearly two decades, fueled by deep economic inequality, high unemployment, and sometimes divisive political rhetoric. Major outbreaks occurred in 2008, 2015, 2019, and 2026, resulting in dozens of deaths, thousands of displacements, diplomatic tensions with other African nations, and the rise of anti-migrant groups like Operation Dudula which has since registered as a political party.