SAHRC
By Lerato Mpembe
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has raised significant alarm after discovering social media content advocating violent “operations” targeting foreign nationals on Youth Day, 16 June 2025. The Commission has formally alerted the National Commissioner of Police and outlined plans to closely monitor these threats. It stands ready to invoke the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 if these messages qualify as criminal incitement .
⸻
Why This Matter Matters
Youth Day in South Africa commemorates the 1976 student uprising and the struggle against apartheid—a day once rooted in protest and reflection. However, the emerging social media threats are overshadowing the commemoration, turning it into a potential flashpoint for xenophobic violence. Over the years, threats and actual attacks against foreign nationals have escalated, fuelled by rumours, scapegoating and vigilantism .
Enter Operation Dudula, a vigilante movement spreading anti-immigrant rhetoric and hostile action in parts of South Africa. Linked to calls for forced removals and violence aimed at migrants, its activities mirror the current online threats and raise fear of real-world repercussions .
⸻
SAHRC’s Firm Response
- Monitoring and Escalation
SAHRC emphasises its proactive approach:
• Tracking violent online content with potential to incite hate or violence.
• Informing law enforcement to investigate and apply the Cybercrimes Act if warranted .
- Free Speech vs Hate Speech
SAHRC clearly states that freedom of expression does not include calls for violence:
“Freedom of expression does not extend to speech that incites hatred or violence.” 
This reminder is timely, given rising online mis- and disinformation used to stir hostility against foreign nationals—a tactic observed during unrest in 2021 .
- Reporting Channels and Responsible Conduct
SAHRC urges individuals to report suspicious or harmful content to SAPS and other relevant bodies, and to consult the SAHRC Social Media Charter for guidelines on responsible online engagement .
- Civil‑Society Cooperation
SAHRC commits to ongoing collaboration with law enforcement agencies, including the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), and civil society organisations to protect all individuals’ rights in South Africa .
⸻
Contextualising the Threat
Xenophobia in South Africa
Since 1994, xenophobic sentiment has persisted in various forms—stemming from competition over jobs, housing, and municipal resources. A 2018 study showed that a majority of South Africans inaccurately blamed foreign nationals for crime and theft, despite lack of evidence .
Confrontations have turned deadly, most notably in 2008 and 2015, when numerous foreign nationals were killed in xenophobic violence—the most recent incidents serving as chilling reminders of what online rhetoric can fuel .
Operation Dudula’s Rise
Originating in Soweto in June 2021, Operation Dudula escalated from anti-lockdown vigilantism to full-on anti-immigrant activism. The group has marched, targeted migrant-owned spaza shops, and tried block access to schools and clinics, gaining local support but facing allegations of vigilantism and xenophobia .
Although condemned by prominent political figures, the movement continues to expand its reach into urban and informal settlements—a worrying sign of how quickly online calls to violence can manifest as real threats .
⸻
The Hawks’ Role and SAHRC Encouragement
The Hawks have confirmed they are investigating the latest online warnings. SAHRC has welcomed this and urged urgent action to deter and disrupt incitement efforts. Under the Cybercrimes Act, social media posts that directly promote violence can result in arrest, prosecution, fines or imprisonment .
⸻
Social Media: Fuel for Hate or Hope?
Research shows social media can do serious harm. The SAHRC’s 2024 digital harm report noted how unmoderated content fuelled unrest and xenophobic violence in 2021, costing lives and R50 billion in damage . The Commission recommended stronger moderation, community education, and law enforcement monitoring to prevent repetition.
SAHRC’s Social Media Charter encourages platforms and users to:
• Prioritise accuracy over sensationalism.
• De-escalate conflict and verify sources.
• Encourage respect, dignity, and constructive conversation .
⸻
Supporting Foreign Nationals
Since 1994, foreign nationals have faced ongoing human rights violations—ranging from abuse by public officials to informal vigilante attacks. Studies from as far back as the 1990s reveal persistent police abuse, extortion, and forced deportations targeting undocumented migrants from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and other nations .
Despite South Africa’s Constitution protecting dignity, equality and security of all residents, state mechanisms and public will remain fragile—often failing to uphold those rights .
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 109 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Rand Water Completes Massive Maintenance Project Ahead of Schedule, Boosting Water Supply Across Gauteng and Beyond
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Central-News-Issue-109.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube