Organised labour has warned against scapegoating foreign nationals for South Africa's unemployment and economic challenges, arguing that migrants are not responsible for the country's deep-rooted socio-economic problems. The unions also criticised the government for failing to effectively manage border controls and implement a coherent migration policy. Their remarks come amid growing anti-migrant sentiment ahead of the June 30 deadline set by the anti-illegal immigration movement March and March, along with several other civic organisations.
Organised labour has criticised the government for failing to address illegal immigration and related socio-economic challenges in a timely and effective manner.
Addressing a press conference at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC), the country's major labour federations — Cosatu, Fedusa, Saftu and Nactu — stressed that immigrants should not be blamed for South Africa's deep-rooted economic and social problems.
The unions acknowledged growing public concern over the influx of foreign nationals into the country but argued that unemployment, poverty and economic stagnation were not caused by immigrants.
"Foreign nationals should not be made scapegoats for problems that government has failed to resolve. Dismissing foreign workers will not result in the opening of factories, improved municipal infrastructure, job creation or economic growth. We are concerned about marches and campaigns that appear to be politically motivated," the federations said in a joint statement.
