More than 160,000 undocumented immigrants have reportedly fled South Africa following mass street protests by citizens demanding that foreigners leave the country, reflecting a broader public backlash against the government's border enforcement. Campaigners argue the movement echoes similar political shifts seen across Western nations, where anti-immigration sentiment has increasingly shaped mainstream politics and public discourse.

According to the report, South Africa's documented population stands at around 63 million, while one advocacy organisation claims as many as 30 million people may be in the country illegally, though this figure is disputed and unverified. Undocumented migrants have been blamed by protest groups for rising crime, job losses among citizens, and pressure on public services including overwhelmed hospitals. Activist Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of the March and March movement, has described the situation as an "invasion" and is calling for tougher government action against illegal immigration.