Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister, has disclosed comprehensive changes aimed at modernizing the country’s citizenship, immigration, and refugee legislation. Addressing the media, Minister Motsoaledi highlighted the extensive public support for the finalized White Paper on citizenship, immigration, and refugee protection, which was officially published in the Government Gazette.
Overwhelming Public Response
Following the publication of the White Paper in November last year, the Department of Home Affairs received an inundation of responses from a diverse array of stakeholders, including citizens, asylum seekers, refugees, public interest groups, governmental bodies, and international organizations. Minister Motsoaledi noted the broad-based engagement, with public hearings conducted across all nine provinces, supplemented by radio and TV interviews to solicit feedback on the proposed changes.
Key Areas of Reform
A focal point of the proposed reforms is the overhaul of the Citizenship Act, which Minister Motsoaledi described as a relic of the colonial era. He underscored the urgent need for radical changes, particularly in revising Section 43 and other pertinent sections to align with contemporary democratic principles. Additionally, the White Paper advocates for a review of South Africa’s commitment to international conventions concerning refugee protection, with careful consideration given to the country’s resource constraints.
Challenges of Illegal Immigration
Minister Motsoaledi acknowledged the persistent challenge of illegal immigration, with immigration services reporting an annual influx of between 15,000 and 20,000 illegal immigrants. While the establishment of the Border Management Authority has aided in addressing these issues, the minister highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of existing visa processes. The proposed introduction of limited-duration permanent residence visas aims to mitigate fraudulent practices and streamline the immigration system.
Government Gazette Publication
Cabinet approval of the final White Paper was granted on April 10, culminating in its publication in the Government Gazette on April 17. Minister Motsoaledi emphasized the meticulous consideration given to both oral and written submissions, resulting in a comprehensive and well-informed final document.
The relevant Government Gazette can be read below: