TOWARDS-TOLERANCE-LAW-AND-DIGNITY-ADDRESSING-VIOLENCE-AGAINST-FOREIGN-NATIONALS-IN-SOUTH-AFRICA-REPORT-FEB-2009-62PP (original) (raw)

Abstract

6 9. Sensitise and capacitate media to undertake responsible reporting on migrants and migration issues: Implement programmes to capacitate the media to understand the different categories of migrants, the various aspects of migration, and the rights and responsibilities of migrants, in order to promote responsible and factual reporting about migrants and migration, based on proper investigation. This will help to reduce the prejudices and stereotypes that are fostered by irresponsible media reporting that tends to refer to migrants generally as 'illegal immigrants'. There are no guarantees that the mechanisms outlined above will prevent future attacks targeted at foreign nationals or other minority groups. However, in the absence of such measures, we may witness further social fragmentation, disrespect for human rights and the law, resulting in further violence. Research Design and Data Collection This study builds on the FMSP's ongoing explorations of xenophobic violence in South Africa with new comparative, qualitative data. While drawing on past work, the study primarily reflects original research in seven selected sites in Gauteng and Western Cape Provinces: five sites where xenophobic violence occurred between January 2007 and June 2008, and two where the presence of foreign nationals did not lead to significant violence. The sites in Gauteng included Itireleng in Laudium; Madelakufa II and Madelakufa I (non-affected) in Tembisa; Sector II and Sector V (non-affected) in Alexandra. The two sites in Western Cape included Masiphumelele and Du Noon. By comparing similar sites in which violence did or did not occur (i.e. a most similar systems approach), this study helps to isolate specific triggers and structures associated with anti-outsider violence. This study's respondents included South African residents of the selected townships, foreign nationals who reside or resided in the same locations, relevant government officials, community leaders, and representatives of different civil society organisations operating in the selected areas. The research team conducted individual interviews with local residents and affected non-nationals living in the community and/or in governmentcreated Centres of Safe Shelter (CoSS). The team also conducted interviews with an extensive range of key informants, including local government officials, police, civil society and community leaders (e.g., ward council members, street committee leaders, Community Policing Forums (CPFs), and izinduna). Focus group discussions were also organised including specific groups of women, men, and youth.

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