Johannesburg, 30 July 2026 – Following a decision by the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s (AU) Executive Council not to discuss migration at the upcoming AU mid-term review meeting, South Africa reaffirms its support for the long-standing decision of the African Union to convene a continent-wide conference on migration. This reiteration underscores a fundamental divergence between national policy and broader continental strategy regarding irregular migration. (Read the full statement.)
Background
The 25th African Union Assembly held in Johannesburg in 2015 called for an African migration conference to discuss, among others, approaches to accelerate mobility and development within the continent while also addressing the challenges posed by increased irregular migration and developing capacity to manage migration flows within the continent. This initiative stems from a recognition that migration is fundamentally a continental issue, not one amenable to isolated national responses. The statement does not address previous attempts at establishing such a forum.
Analysis
South Africa’s commitment reflects an understanding of the complex drivers behind migration within Africa – primarily economic opportunity and, according to recent research, the aspirations of almost six in 10 Africans aged between 18 and 25. The urgency is further underscored by growing negative attitudes towards migrants across the continent and globally, driven in part by prevailing economic hardship. This suggests a potential disconnect between the AU’s strategic vision for a holistic migration dialogue and the immediate pressures faced by individual nations. The statement does not address the underlying causes of this sentiment.
Implications
The continued support for a continent-wide conference has significant implications for regional stability. If implemented as described, it could provide a platform for African countries to exchange experiences and develop cooperative responses grounded in the continent’s unique circumstances. The need for this dialogue is amplified by the fact that Africa has yet to convene a comprehensive forum of its own at which Member States can collectively examine Africa’s migration challenges and opportunities. This also presents an opportunity to address the root causes of anti-migrant sentiment.
Outlook
Should the visit yield renewed commitment from AU member states, South Africa will likely continue its support for a continental dialogue. If the AU’s decision remains unchanged, South Africa will remain focused on coordinating efforts to ensure that those responsible for assault, intimidation, looting, robbery and other criminal acts face the full might of the law. The statement does not address potential consequences if the conference fails to materialize.
Conclusion
The continued affirmation of this long-held position raises questions about South Africa’s ability to effectively shape a continental response to migration pressures, particularly given the documented rise in anti-migrant sentiment. The future of the dialogue hinges on the willingness of African nations to confront these underlying issues.
