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Introduction
In recent years 2008 and 2009- Xenophobic attacks have increasingly escalated, becoming a significant area of concern predominantly in the ever-swelling entry of foreigners into South Africa. Several elements are responsible for the Xenophobic attacks witnessed in South Africa over these two years, especially the widespread 2008 attacks committed by some South Africans against African immigrants and locals. According to Nell (2009: 234), reasons for Xenophobic intolerance often focus on three types of factors:
(a) Interactive factors related to the amount of exposure inhabitants have to strangers
(b) Cultural factors which include identity and nationalism
(c) Material or economic factors related to employment opportunities, available resources, etc.
The specific nature of such attacks, mostly directed at foreigners, impinges on the security of society and highlights the degree and nature of violence in South Africa as a whole. Considering the fact that South Africa successfully emerged from decades of racial exclusion in the apartheid regime to that of democratic equality and recognition, poses a multiplicity of questions as to why Xenophobia should occur now in South Africa? Is it just another manifestation of racism? Is it because Xenophobia is common in societies undergoing transition? Is it because of the liberal nature of South African foreign policy? Is it merely part of the historical dynamics of present day development? Is it a result of cultural differences and inequality within society? What, in reality, are the causes and consequences and which is the best way forward regarding this problem?
Xenophobia is a crime against humanity that involves aspects such as dislike, fear, distrust or intolerance of foreigners, often expressed in terms of hostilities towards the outsiders (Evans and Newnham, 1998: 583). Nel (2005: 241), classifies it as a 'hate crime', defined as the extreme expression of prejudice through violent criminal acts committed against people, property, or even organisations, either because of the group to which they belong or with which they identify. This violent anti-foreigner practice is very much a worldwide issue, mostly attributed to the fast globalisation of society, which prompts the migration of people, especially from developing and less developed countries to go in search of greener pastures.
The use of South Africa as a case study is based on the nature of its racial...