UN urges calm as South Africa faces nationwide anti-immigration protests

The United Nations has called for calm as South Africa prepared for planned nationwide anti-immigration protests on June 30. The appeal came as organisers pushed ahead with demonstrations targeting undocumented migrants and as authorities increased police visibility amid fears that tensions could turn violent.

UN monitoring developments

Speaking ahead of the planned action, Stéphane Dujarric, chief spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, said the UN was “closely monitoring the situation in South Africa regarding the planned protests on June 30 concerning undocumented migrants.” He urged all parties to exercise restraint and to respect human rights and the rule of law.

Warnings over possible violence

The planned demonstrations, organised by anti-illegal immigration groups, have prompted concern from communities, businesses and civil society organisations about possible unrest and attacks on foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

“We urge all parties to exercise restraint and fully respect human rights and the rule of law,”

Dujarric said, adding that any actions must remain peaceful and that authorities should ensure the protection of all individuals regardless of migration status.

Civil society and policing responses

Amnesty International South Africa warned that stronger political leadership is needed to confront xenophobia. Executive director Shenilla Mohamed said:

“Amnesty International supports the right to peaceful protest. But violence, intimidation, harassment and self-appointed ‘enforcement’ of immigration laws are unlawful and have no place in our society. History has shown us where this path leads and how quickly things can turn deadly.”

South African authorities have increased police visibility in several areas and said they would act against criminal behaviour during the demonstrations. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia urged officers to remain professional, disciplined and neutral. He said:

“We are there to protect life, safeguard property, prevent criminality and respond swiftly should any individual seek to exploit these legitimate grievances to commit acts of violence, intimidation or vandalism.”

International voice in a tense moment

The UN’s appeal adds an international voice to calls for calm as South Africa approaches a widely watched day of protests, with many hoping the demonstrations will proceed without violence or attacks on vulnerable communities.