The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to Pan-African solidarity, the rule of law and constructive continental dialogue on migration following the final communiqué issued at the 69th Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government.
In a statement on Thursday, DIRCO said South Africa regards ECOWAS as a vital pillar of continental integration and remains committed to engaging with the regional bloc on issues of mutual concern, particularly regional stability and migration management.
The department reiterated South Africa's firm opposition to all forms of discrimination, saying the country "categorically" rejects xenophobia, racism, homophobia, intolerance and discrimination in all their manifestations.
DIRCO said upholding the dignity of every person within South Africa's borders is both a constitutional obligation and a moral responsibility.
“South Africa remains steadfast in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that those who perpetrate violence or unlawful acts are held fully accountable under our judicial system,” the department said.
While South Africa continues to address specific bilateral issues with West African countries, such as Ghana and Nigeria, the department noted that the country's largest migration flows are concentrated within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said migration should be elevated to the highest decision-making level of the African Union to address its underlying causes.
“Establishing a dedicated agenda item at the African Union to address the primary push-and-pull factors and root causes of irregular migration, focusing squarely on good governance, democracy, and economic stability, will enable a pragmatic, comprehensive approach to continental migration challenges,” Lamola said.
He said discussions at the African Union Heads of State Summit could help ensure that migration across the continent becomes a choice rather than a necessity.
DIRCO also responded to a petition submitted to the International Criminal Court (ICC) by two Ghanaian civilians, describing it as opportunistic and saying it does not meet the legal thresholds required for the court to take action.
The department said the petition fails to satisfy the ICC's statutory legal triggers and jurisdictional requirements, adding that South Africa has confidence in its domestic legal framework under the principle of complementarity.
DIRCO highlighted the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act, saying it gives effect to the country's constitutional and international human rights obligations by criminalising hate crimes and hate speech, and ensuring the prosecution of those found guilty of such offences. – SAnews.gov.za
