ITUC-Africa Condemns Xenophobic Attacks on Migrant Workers

By Moses Akwashiki

The International Trade Union Confederation Africa has strongly condemned the resurgence of xenophobic attacks targeting African migrant workers and foreign nationals in South Africa, describing the acts as barbaric and unacceptable.

In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Joel Odigie, the organisation decried what it called cowardly attacks fueled by hate, discrimination, and distrust, noting that such actions undermine Africa’s unity and shared values.

“These acts of violence against fellow Africans erode social cohesion, weaken labour rights, and threaten peace across the continent,” the statement read.

“They contradict the spirit of Pan-Africanism and the principle that Africa belongs to all its people, regardless of borders.”

ITUC-Africa emphasised that migrant workers play a vital role in national economies and must be protected.

It called on the South African government to uphold its obligations under international frameworks, including conventions of the International Labour Organization and the United Nations Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

The organisation noted gaps in the domestication and enforcement of these international instruments, stressing that South Africa must align its laws and policies with global standards to ensure the safety and dignity of all workers.

ITUC-Africa urged authorities to go beyond rhetoric by taking concrete steps to address the crisis, including prosecuting perpetrators, strengthening labour inspections, and promoting inclusive dialogue.

It warned against allowing citizens to take the law into their own hands, particularly against vulnerable migrants.

The group also called on regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community and the African Union to urgently intervene, describing xenophobia as a growing regional concern that requires coordinated action.

“Xenophobia divides workers and fuels exploitation. African trade unions remain united in the belief that an injury to one is an injury to all,” the statement added.

ITUC-Africa expressed solidarity with victims of the attacks and reiterated its call for unity, urging Africans to reject hate and embrace peace and cooperation across borders.