Alan Hirsch, Head of the Migration Governance Reform Programme at the New South Institute, appeared on TRT World Now on 28 May 2026 to discuss xenophobic threats in South Africa and their implications for the country’s reputation on the continent.

The interview followed reports that fears of xenophobic attacks had led around 300 Ghanaians to return to Accra from South Africa through a government-backed repatriation effort. Ghanaian authorities have said that more than 800 of their nationals had requested assistance to return home.

Hirsch noted that anti-migrant mobilisation in South Africa has become a systemic national concern. While government statements have condemned violence against foreign nationals, he argued that political leadership has not yet produced a consistent and comprehensive response to the problem.

A central issue in the discussion was the way in which immigration enforcement and xenophobic mobilisation are often conflated. Hirsch cautioned that political rhetoric around undocumented migration can contribute to misunderstanding, particularly when concerns about border management, administrative capacity, and corruption are blurred with hostility towards foreign nationals.

The interview also considered the reputational consequences for South Africa. Hirsch argued that xenophobic threats and violence damage the country’s credibility in Africa, particularly given its constitutional commitments and its historical role in regional diplomacy and continental affairs.

He emphasised that rebuilding trust will require domestic political leadership to draw clear lines on acceptable conduct. This includes a clear and consistent response from leaders across the governing alliance and the wider political spectrum.

Watch the full TRT World Now interview here.