Abstract:
This paper surveys frameworks of labour migration in southern Africa and determines South Africa’s policy
responses to inflows of migrants from seven neighbouring countries. Legislations, policy reports and scientific publications on
migration were thoroughly reviewed and interviews and correspondence with key policymakers were conducted. Statistical
analyses of data on foreign worker recruitments and permits issued by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs were also
performed. The absence of a migration protocol in southern Africa suggests SADC Members have not implemented the African
Union’s migration policy basic guidelines. Two systems coexist in southern Africa that complicate migration governance: a South
Africa‐managed bilateral migration policy, and aspirations for a formal SADC‐managed migration policy. Bilateral agreements
between South Africa and neighbours have established a labour migration system that dims prospects for a regional migration
policy. SACU Members could establish a two‐tier policy to achieve free movement while maintaining managed migration policy
outside SACU. An official multilateral migration governance mechanism would serve SADC better than the current ad‐hoc
measures.
