International migration and xenophobia in South Africa: the consequences for regional integration in Africa

Ferdinand Ottoh, University of Lagos

The paper explores international migration and xenophobia in South Africa with its attendance consequences on Africa integration. The motivation was based on the recurring decimal of xenophobic attacks against non-nationals. The paper argues that the perceived fear of foreigners taking of jobs in South Africa is unfounded because there is no empirical evidence to substantiate the claim. The study adopts two levels of analysis- empirical analysis of migrants in South Africa and descriptive analysis that brings clarity to the consequences of xenophobic violence on African integration. The paper adopts eclectic theoretical approach in view of multifaceted and complex nature of the phenomenon under investigation.The finding shows that South Africa's migration policy contradicts the development agenda of Africa under the New Partnership for Africa Development. It concludes that xenophobic attacks on non-nationals is a gross violation of the rights of immigrants in South Africa and is counter-productive to the integration of Africa.