Advocating for Regional Justice and Migrant Protection: A Response from FLAC Fellow

Aligning policing with Pan-African principles

Rorisang emphasises that South Africa must align its domestic policing practices with its Pan-African commitments. While South African businesses operate freely across the region, the rights of migrants must also be protected. Vigilante groups, such as Operation Dudula, have targeted migrants, restricting access to basic constitutional rights. “If South African businesses operate freely in our countries, our citizens must be protected when accessing their rights in South Africa. We call on governments across the region to demand a formal briefing from South Africa on how they plan to protect regional migrants following the President’s SONA commitments.” – Rorisang Makoae

Regional Healthcare Cooperation

Access to healthcare for migrants remains a pressing concern. Rorisang urges South Africa and its neighbouring countries to adopt a SADC-wide approach to healthcare support. Blockades or unlawful denial of hospital services for migrants are not solutions they increase vulnerability and strain regional cooperation. “If South Africa is struggling with its healthcare load, the solution is SADC-wide cooperation, not the unlawful blockade of hospital doors by private groups. Regional advocacy mechanisms, like the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, must be empowered to hold South Africa accountable to the African Charter.” – Rorisang Makoae

A Call to Action

The message from our FLAC Fellows is clear: the protection of migrants, respect for constitutional rights, and regional collaboration in healthcare are not optional they are obligations under international and regional law. Governments, civil society organizations, and citizens must amplify these demands and ensure accountability.

We encourage readers to:

• Share this advocacy message to raise awareness of regional migrant rights.
• Engage with local and regional advocacy groups to support migrant protection and healthcare access.
• Call on national governments to take concrete steps that uphold Pan-African commitments and SADC-wide cooperation.

The voices of youth and fellows like Rorisang are shaping a region where justice, dignity, and equity for all are non-negotiable. In response to the 2026 SONA, let us stand in solidarity and hold governments accountable