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FMSP endorses Human Rights Watch call to legalize Zimbabweans in South Africa
Forced Migration Studies Programme, Wits University
June 19, 2008

The Wits Forced Migration Studies Programme (FMSP) welcomes a new report by Human Rights Watch, fittingly entitled "Neighbors in Need: Zimbabweans Seeking Refuge in South Africa." The FMSP fully endorses the report's key recommendation to the South African government: to grant Zimbabweans in South Africa temporary status and the right to work.

The Forced Migration Studies Programme has previously argued that the South African government has failed to present a clear and coordinated policy on Zimbabweans in South Africa. Existing responses, including access to asylum for a small minority and the threat of arrest and deportation for the undocumented majority, are inadequate and endanger the lives of tens of thousands. In an environment where many South African citizens are hostile to non-nationals, the government must do more to show that Zimbabweans, and other immigrants, have rights in South Africa.

"The lack of a coordinated response not only negatively effects Zimbabweans, but may also undermine South Africa's economy, public health, safety and security, to say nothing of its regional and international reputation," says Tara Polzer, a researcher with FMSP. "While it is difficult to implement a clear and coordinated policy response, the human costs of inaction are high."," she continued.

A five-year FMSP research project illustrates how the lack of legal status creates a wide range of vulnerabilities for immigrants: the entrenchment of poverty; the inability to protect one's own basic rights against abuse and exploitation; local political marginalisation; and social exclusion. Conversely, well-designed, transparent and consistent provision of legal status and documentation to specific groups of immigrants (such as the temporary status for Zimbabweans recommended by the Human Rights Watch report) can promote their self-reliance and contributions to South African society. The remittances they send to their families will help prevent further suffering in Zimbabwe and, eventually, help to rebuild a more stable and prosperous national and regional economy.

The South African government has already waited too long to respond to its neighbours in need. To avoid furthering the region's humanitarian crises, the government must act now by providing food and shelter or the tools that will allow Zimbabweans to care for themselves and sustain their families at home.

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