The UN Refugee Agency's Southern Africa office is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention as the number of people forced to flee their homes reaches historic levels. The agency noted that the global displacement crisis has reached unprecedented levels, showing the urgent need for international cooperation. The agency emphasized that protecting refugees extends beyond governments, stating, "From the ashes of the Second World War came a solemn promise: a promise to protect people forced to flee war, violence and persecution. Today, with forced displacement at record levels, we must renew that promise." This responsibility, the agency stressed, is a shared one.
South Africa has played an important role in protecting refugees for over three decades, according to the agency. Its commitment to humanitarian principles has been a cornerstone of its approach to displacement. The UN Refugee Agency asserted that every person has the right to seek safety from war, violence, and persecution, regardless of their origin. The agency further stressed the importance of collective action, stating, "From governments to local communities, global institutions to town halls, boardrooms to faith groups, businesses to civil society, we all play our part in making a difference." This call to action emphasizes a holistic approach involving various sectors of society.
South Africa's Refugee Landscape
South Africa hosted over 167,000 refugees and asylum-seekers in 2025, according to the UN Refugee Agency. These individuals primarily originate from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. The diverse origins of these displaced populations reflect the ongoing challenges in various parts of the African continent. South Africa does not implement a camp policy, meaning most refugees integrate into urban communities rather than residing in designated settlements. This policy choice fosters a unique integration dynamic, presenting both opportunities and challenges for displaced individuals and host communities alike. The absence of formal camps means that refugees often live side-by-side with local residents, requiring strong social services and community support structures.
The UN Refugee Agency stated that most refugees endeavor to remain as close to their home countries as possible, often settling in communities already experiencing significant strain. "Most refugees stay as close to their home countries as they can, often in communities already facing immense pressure," the agency noted. "That is where we must act first. Not with aid alone, but with opportunity. Not only helping people survive but enabling them to rebuild their lives and forge better futures." This perspective notes the importance of fostering self-reliance and economic integration within host communities. The agency advocates for solutions that move beyond temporary relief, aiming to create sustainable pathways for refugees to contribute meaningfully to their new environments.
Durban Encampment Crisis
Hundreds of refugees and asylum seekers remain camped outside the Department of Home Affairs offices on Che Guevara Road in Durban. These individuals were displaced by recent anti-foreigner violence in the city. The violence led to widespread fear and displacement, forcing many to seek refuge in temporary arrangements. Families, including babies, young children, and elderly people, have spent weeks sleeping on the pavement, exposed to the elements. Humanitarian organisations, churches, and volunteers are providing food, blankets, and other essentials to the displaced families, offering vital support in a challenging situation. The encampment notes the immediate challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers in urban settings following incidents of unrest, pointing to the vulnerabilities created by such events. Local aid groups continue to address the basic needs of those affected, ensuring access to temporary relief, medical care, and sanitation. The situation shows the ongoing efforts required to support vulnerable populations in the region and the critical role of civil society in responding to humanitarian crises.
Call for Global Solidarity
The UN Refugee Agency stated that refugees should be welcomed into communities, schools, and workplaces. This approach emphasizes the benefits of integration for both refugees and host societies. The agency emphasized that lasting solutions to displacement should begin from the moment individuals are forced to flee their homes. This approach aims to integrate displaced populations effectively from the outset, rather than addressing their needs solely through temporary measures. By providing early access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, the agency believes that refugees can more quickly become self-sufficient. Advocating for integration into local society, the agency promotes the idea that refugees can contribute to their new environments if given the opportunity and the necessary support. The call for early intervention and community inclusion reflects a strategy to foster self-reliance and reduce dependency on prolonged humanitarian aid, ultimately creating more stable outcomes for both displaced individuals and host communities. This proactive stance aims to transform the narrative around refugees from one of burden to one of potential contribution.
