ABSTRACT
By the end of Chapter 10, you will be able to:
Describe xenophobia
Explore the discourse of xenophobia in a globalised world
Examine the relationship between claims of autochthony, nationalism and xenophobic violence
Apply your understanding to case studies
Chapter 10 considers the relationship between xenophobia, citizenship and nationalism. We discuss identity politics, considering notions of insiders and outsiders, and examine tensions around (un)belonging. Unlike previous chapters, this one is organised around key themes, including migrancy and autochthony, as opposed to thinkers. The issue of migrant labour and xenophobia anchors our discussion. Xenophobia refers to the fear or hatred of those perceived to be outsiders, foreigners or strangers to a community, nation or society – often migrants. Xenophobic victimisation can lead to violence even death. In this chapter, we examine why some migrants are victimised and ‘scapegoated’ in society, blamed for social problems, such as crime and other social issues. Using the concept of xenophobia and drawing on a South African case study, we pay close attention to the rural-migrant experiences of xenophobia. The case study explores how rural migrants travel to urban centres to find work and analyses the different forms of xenophobia produced, shared and consumed in social organisations and institutions. The chapter also explores the inequalities experienced by some migrant labour forces such as low wages, poor working conditions and lack of security. Methods of formal and informal social control are important to our discussion.