Migrants and refugees in South Africa are facing renewed fears of violence as a September 30 deadline set by the anti-immigration movement March and March approaches.
The group has called on undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country and has warned of further demonstrations if its demands are not met. The deadline has increased anxiety among migrant communities, particularly in Durban, where tensions between activists and refugees have already resulted in confrontations and injuries.
Refugees and asylum seekers in Durban say the distinction between documented and undocumented migrants does not always protect them from hostility. Some fear that foreigners could be targeted regardless of their legal status.
For months, hundreds of refugees and asylum seekers from countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Uganda, Mozambique and Tanzania stayed outside the Durban Refugee Reception Centre. Many said they had left other areas because they feared anti-foreigner attacks.
Tensions escalated earlier this month when March and March members confronted refugees and asylum seekers near the centre. At least four people were injured during clashes, according to reports.
The latest tensions come against a longer history of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals from other African countries have periodically faced violence and intimidation.
Economic difficulties, unemployment and perceptions that migrants are competing with South Africans for jobs, housing and public services have contributed to anti-foreigner sentiment. Rights groups have repeatedly called for a distinction between documented migrants, asylum seekers and people without legal status.
March and March says its campaign is focused on undocumented migration, crime and deteriorating conditions in South African communities. The movement has rejected accusations that its activities are directed against foreigners generally and says it is specifically opposing illegal immigration.
The September 30 deadline comes as South Africa prepares for its local government elections on November 4, 2026. The Electoral Commission has confirmed that the municipal elections will take place on that date.
Migration has become an increasingly visible issue in the country’s political and social debate during the election period. Anti-immigration demonstrations have taken place in several South African cities during 2026. Reuters reported that protests linked to calls for undocumented migrants to leave the country were accompanied by violence and looting in some areas earlier this year.
For refugees and asylum seekers in Durban, the immediate concern is safety as the deadline approaches.
Some migrant communities say they have nowhere safe to return to and fear that renewed demonstrations could lead to further attacks. Recent reporting from Durban has documented continuing concerns among refugees who say they remain vulnerable despite having legal documentation or asylum claims.
The situation has increased calls for authorities to prevent violence and protect people regardless of their nationality or immigration status as South Africa approaches the September 30 deadline and the November municipal elections.