Jesuit Refugee Service Supports Over 1,000 amid Growing Anti-Migrant Unrest in South Africa
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), an entity of the Society of Jesus (SJ,/Jesuits) has intensified its humanitarian response, providing practical assistance while advocating for the dignity and protection of refugees and migrants as tensions over immigration rise in South Africa.
Johannesburg, 28 July, 2026 / 9:11 pm (ACI Africa). Jesuit Refugee Service(JRS), an entity of theSociety of Jesus(SJ,/Jesuits) has intensified its humanitarian response, providing practical assistance while advocating for the dignity and protection of refugees and migrants as tensions over immigration rise in South Africa. Working alongside other humanitarian and faith-based organizations, JRS South Africa has supported 1,167 people affected by the crisis, including 75 individuals directly impacted by therecent unrest. The Catholic organization has provided refugees with necessities, including food, hygiene items, transportation to specific embassies, and even protection. “We want to continue supporting people with their basic needs—food, hygiene items and, where possible, transport. These are practical ways of accompanying people during a very difficult period while ensuring they are treated with dignity,”Matseliso Ntsoelikane, Country Director of JRS South Africa, said in aJuly 24 report. Ntsoelikane said that the vulnerable communities are not only facing economic challenges but also psychological problems. “People are scared to go to work. Many are afraid to be seen outside. Some remain inside their homes, while those who go out stay constantly alert, warning one another whenever they hear of possible threats. This fear has also affected participation in our livelihoods and English language programmes, as many no longer feel safe enough to attend,” she said. The Catholic Organization official emphasized the importance of remaining close to the vulnerable communities while preserving their dignity, especially the immigrants. She called on the government to protect the rights of every human person while carrying out their migration responsibilities. “No citizen has the right to forcibly remove people from where they live or work. These matters should always follow legal processes and be handled by the authorities mandated to do so,” she said. The official also condemned those who travel to other countries withoutproper documentation, saying, “Those who wish to come to South Africa should also follow the appropriate legal channels. Our message is one of balance, respect for the law, and respect for the dignity of every human person. ”According to arecent report, South Africa has deported or repatriated more than 53,000 undocumented migrants in the past five weeks as part of a major immigration crackdown following widespread anti-migrant protests. Many protesters blame undocumented migrants for unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services, while the government says it is enforcing immigration laws but also protecting human rights. JRS acknowledged the role of the churches, humanitarian organizations and volunteers who continue to support and welcome the vulnerable individuals in times of crisis, describing refugees as not only recipients of assistance but the people who contribute to the growth of South Africa through businesses and education. The organization recognized the resilience of the refugees, reminding the people that behind every statistic is a person seeking safety, opportunity and the chance to rebuild a meaningful life. “We believe that everybody should be treated as a human being,” Ntsoelikane reflects. “Whether someone is documented or undocumented, their fundamental human rights should always be protected. ”She added that migration remains a complex issue, but responses must always place human dignity at the center.