The absolute respect for the fundamental rights of migrants, including access to justice, legal representation, and humane conditions of detention, must be guaranteed regardless of status.

Approximately 1,000 irregular migrants were arrested at a mine in Barberton, South Africa, as part of a major mining security operation called Vala Umgodi. Authorities claim to have significantly disrupted illegal mining activity in the region.

However, behind these mass arrests lie complex human realities. Many of these migrants may have been forced into mining to support their families back home. The difficult economic situation, conflicts, and lack of legal employment opportunities often compel these individuals to risk their lives in dangerous and informal working conditions.

Although their presence violates South African immigration laws and mining regulations, these individuals remain, above all, human beings whose fundamental rights must be fully respected and protected. Respect for their dignity, access to legal assistance and medical care, and fair treatment throughout the judicial process are fundamental commitments to which the South African state is urged to respond with diligence and compassion.

Authorities have announced that the suspects could face several charges, but the process must be governed by international human rights law, to which South Africa is a party. The migrants’ nationalities have not yet been made public, and the date of their court appearance remains to be confirmed.

To provide a more humane and sustainable response to the migration crisis linked to illegal mining, it is essential to establish humanitarian reception and assessment procedures. These procedures must allow for individualized care in order to identify the most vulnerable individuals, such as refugees, victims of trafficking, and unaccompanied children. Strengthened regional cooperation with countries of origin is also crucial to create safe and legal migration pathways while addressing the root causes of forced emigration. At the same time, the socio-economic integration of migrants must be promoted by enabling them to legally participate in the South African economy under dignified working conditions. Full respect for fundamental rights- including access to justice, legal defense, and humane detention conditions- must be guaranteed regardless of status. Finally, targeted investments in the formal economy of mining areas can offer sustainable alternatives to illegal exploitation through the creation of local jobs and the regularization of artisanal activities.

By addressing irregular migration with humanity, justice, and cooperation, South Africa will be able to combine security and respect for rights, to the benefit of all.