South African Study Finds Mutual Suspicion Undermines Immigrant Integration
A 2026 study conducted in Pretoria and Johannesburg urban areas reveals ongoing mutual suspicion and prejudice between South Africans and African immigrants, despite legal immigrants generally being accepted as neighbours. The research suggests documentation, awareness, and social security improvements to ease community tensions.
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A recent 2026 study conducted by an African art historian focusing on migration and social integration has revealed persistent barriers to neighbourly relations between South Africans and immigrants. The research took place in three Pretoria and Johannesburg communities with high immigrant populations: Arcadia, Yeoville, and an informal settlement called Plastic City.
Although South Africa hosts between 2.4 million and 3.1 million foreign-born residents (about 4% to 5.1% of the population), acceptance of immigrants as neighbours remains fragile. The study found that while relationships with legally documented immigrants were generally positive, suspicion and prejudice persist, especially towards those perceived as undocumented. This dynamic contributes to ongoing social tensions, as evidenced by a surge in xenophobic violence in mid-2026.
The research involved dialogues with 30 participants per site, including local South Africans, immigrants, community leaders, and organisations. Participants discussed neighbourly relations, social integration factors, and the government’s role in fostering cohesion.
Based on findings, the study recommends ensuring immigrants are documented, launching awareness campaigns about the benefits of coexistence, promoting “know-your-neighbour” initiatives, and improving social security to reduce tensions and build trust in mixed communities.