In a recent paper published in the New Agenda: South African Journal of Social and Economic Policy, Alan Hirsch offers a detailed critique of South Africa’s migration policy. His article, “South Africa’s Migration Policy Mess: Where Did It Come From, and Can It Be Fixed?” appears in Issue 92, which focuses on economics and labour in the Global South.

Alan Hirsch, coordinator of the Migration Governance Reform (MIGRA) programme at the New South Institute, examines the inefficiencies of current migration policy in South Africa. Beginning with a critique of the draft White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection, he identifies the gap between policy formulation and implementation.

Hirsch discusses the systemic failures highlighted by the Lubisi Committee, which found widespread corruption and inefficiency within the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). He traces the evolution of immigration laws from the Mandela era to the present, contrasting earlier humanitarian policies with current restrictive proposals.

The text highlights the misuse of immigration as a political tool, noting that stricter laws often lead to increased illegal migration. Hirsch suggests that many anti-immigrant sentiments are fuelled by broader socio-economic issues rather than the actual impact of immigrants.

Hirsch concludes with recommendations for reform, including improving the DHA’s information systems, professionalising its staff and improving operational efficiency.

The article is an important resource for policymakers, scholars, and the public interested in the complexities of migration governance. It is available for download here and provides valuable insights into the potential for policy reform in South Africa.