ABSTRACT
Genocide develops gradually over time and gains momentum, as well-known tell-tale signs such as hate speech, insults, incitement, discrimination, dehumanisation and assaults are often deliberately ignored. This chapter reviews the escalating incidents of xenophobic violence since 1994 in South Africa, focusing on loss of lives, injuries, loss of livelihoods, detention and displacement. For example, undocumented migrants from Africa are pejoratively called makwerekwere in South Africa. Such name-calling is viewed as the initial stage of genocide. These are important antecedent indicators which can anticipate the potential, as well as serve as a catalyst, for violence against targeted groups. Xenophobia is one of the most serious problems in South Africa, although the government has largely been in denial about acknowledging this challenge. The chapter questions popular stereotypes that South Africa was being flooded by migrants, who undermined employment opportunities for locals, especially in the informal sector. It illustrates to how statements by politicians and traditional leaders tend to fuel xenophobia. Comparisons are drawn between xenophobia and genocide, and the potential for the former to morph into the latter.
