Making migration safe for women - Phase 2: South Africa

South Africa has the highest number of migrant women on the African continent. Out of approximately 2.4 million international migrants in South Africa, just over 1 million are women, accounting for 42 per cent of the total migrant population. Most of these women have migrated from neighbouring countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, including Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Gauteng province is home to the largest share of migrant women, followed by the Western Cape.

The decision for women to migrate is multifaceted and driven by various factors, including the pursuit of economic, educational, and life opportunities, as well as the need to escape conflict, environmental disasters, and deeply entrenched gender inequalities. Many migrant women in South Africa have fled violence or persecution in their countries of origin, including community and political violence, as well as experiences of rape and domestic abuse.

South Africa has ratified and demonstrated its commitment to various international human rights treaties and conventions, including the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. Yet there remains a need to strengthen the development and implementation of gender-responsive migration policies, laws, and services that address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of migrant women, including those who are survivors of gender-based violence.