The Intelligence from The Economist Scapegoating: xenophobia in South Africa
Sep 11, 2019
Mian Ridge, U.S. news editor for The Economist, explores the troubling rise of xenophobia in South Africa, where migrants are unjustly scapegoated amidst economic struggles. She uncovers the socio-economic drivers behind xenophobic violence and discusses potential reforms for addressing these tensions. Additionally, the conversation touches on America's increasingly polarized abortion debate, highlighting the stark contrasts in state laws and the political maneuvering shaping future access rights. Tune in for these vital insights!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Xenophobic Violence in South Africa
- South African mobs chanted "Foreigners must go back" while wielding sticks in Johannesburg.
- Twelve people were killed in these xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants.
Migrants as Scapegoats
- The violence coincides with South Africa's economic slump.
- Migrants are scapegoated for unemployment and other societal problems.
Truck Driver Strike
- South African truck drivers launched a nationwide strike against employing foreign drivers.
- This involved road blockades and setting foreign-driven vehicles on fire.