Xenophobia is in no way limited to South Africa alone. Discrimination against foreigners has been reported through out the world, more so within countries experiencing political or economic unrest.
- IRIN, "South Africa: Foreigners Still at Risk"
April 2008 witnessed the death of 42 people, thousands injured, more than 16 000 displaced and 400 people arrested during a series of xenophobic attacks against foreigners within the Gauteng province. Due to the violent nature of attacks, the government at the time was forced to deploy troops in an attempt to quell the violence. The brutal nature of the killings (including foreigners being necklaced) shocked the nation and questioned the validity of the "rainbow nation" .
The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation reports: "xenophobia in the South African context is not just an attitude: it is an activity. It is a violent practice that results in bodily harm and damage." Such attitudes are not only expressed in the media or in conversation, but overflow into acts of violence. Much of this xenophobic violence is directed at foreign nationals running small grocery stores in informal settlements and townships. Somalians, Nigerians, Zimbabweans and other nationalities are considered easy targets for the frustrations felt by many groups due to their own economic circumstances.
An injury and Injury Prevention Project brought to you by @safeinthecityct