Perceptions and treatment of migrants by the Ba-Phalaborwa Community : a social work perspective

Abstract

Migration to South Africa dates back to the discovery of diamonds and gold in 1867 and 1886 respectively.1 Thereafter, the country became a popular destination for migrants until the 1960s when its black citizens immigrated to other countries as political refugees. When the country became independent in 1994, however, migrations to its shores reminiscent of the nineteenth century ones increased. Such an increase resulted in migrants perceived negatively rather than as agents of development by their host nation. In an attempt to protect their country‟s already limited resources, communities do not welcome migrants (asylums seekers and economic refugees). It is against this background that the study explored the perceptions and treatment of migrants in the Ba-Phalaborwa community. The researcher used the qualitative approach and the exploratory research design to conduct this study. Data was collected from a total of nine African migrants where three were documented (legal) while six were undocumented (illegal); between the ages of 18 and 60 years. The participants were either employed, unemployed, or self-employed (males and females), residing in Ba-Phalaborwa. The researcher used the purposive and snowball sampling techniques to select her study sample. Data was collected by using face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed thematically and the resultant themes coded. The study found that migrants create social networks to have a sense of belonging and for emotional support. Migrants have difficulties in accessing services due to lack of proper documentation. The study recommends that the government revisits its immigration laws and policies to help formalise the migrants‟ stay in the country and close the gaps that are existing in the migration spectrum.