Commission calls on government to balance immigration enforcement with protection of vulnerable groups.
The Commission for Gender Equality says women and children must remain at the centre of government interventions as South Africa grapples with growing public debate and enforcement efforts related to migration.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the watchdog acknowledged the government's responsibility to regulate migration and enforce immigration laws, but cautioned that periods of heightened migration-related tensions often place vulnerable groups at greater risk.
"The Commission recognises the State's constitutional responsibility to regulate migration and enforce immigration laws in a lawful, fair and transparent manner," CGE spokesperson Javu Baloyi said.
The Commission expressed concern that migration challenges can create conditions that expose women, girls, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers to a range of abuses.
