South Africa's fight against xenophobia: Dr Raymond Perrier calls for unity and support for displaced foreigners

As tensions escalate in South Africa with looming threats to expel foreigners, Dr Raymond Perrier, director of the Denis Hurley Centre (DHC), expresses grave concern over the distress faced by those dedicated to a more inclusive society. On the anniversary of the Freedom Charter – the document that laid the groundwork for the nation’s constitution, celebrating radical equality and humanity – this alarming climate of xenophobia stands in stark contrast to the values the country was built upon.

“Yesterday it was illegal migrants, today it is all foreigners; who will it be tomorrow?” Dr Perrier questions, highlighting the unsettling trajectory of exclusion that seems to be gaining momentum. The loud voices calling for the expulsion of foreigners not only undermine the ethos of the Freedom Charter but also threaten the fabric of the nation itself, he says.

From the frontline at the Denis Hurley Centre, Dr Perrier and his team press on amid growing despair. They have witnessed firsthand the urgent needs of hundreds currently living in displacement camps, and they recognise the critical work being done by organisations such as Gift of the Givers and various faith-based groups responding to these crises.

The DHC remains a vital source of healthcare for tens of thousands of law-abiding foreign nationals in Durban — individuals unable to access private medicine or government clinics. “The police and Department of Health have completely ignored court injunctions which require them to intervene,” explains Dr Perrier. “Our clinic is currently the only refuge for many in desperate need of medical assistance.”

In a country where citizenship has become synonymous with access to basic healthcare, the DHC’s position is increasingly critical. Dr Perrier says, “People's ability to stay healthy — and to stay alive — should not depend on their nationality. Nor should it be jeopardised by unlawful protests or governmental indifference.”

He appeals to the public, “If you believe the same, help us prevent illness among these vulnerable individuals. Their ability to work, pay taxes, and care for their families should not be compromised.”

The urgent nature of their work is reflected in the staggering figures surrounding the DHC’s medicine budget. This year, the Centre has been spending R95,000 per month, six times higher than previous years due to increasing demand and diminishing state support. As the xenophobic tide rises, so do the healthcare needs of those who are left behind, says Perrier.

• R120,000 on primary healthcare due to lower supplies from the Department of Health and an influx of refugee patients.
• R108,000 on antiretrovirals (ARVs) and R24,000 on tuberculosis (TB) medicines, which are no longer supplied by the state.
• R352,000 on chronic medications for refugees unable to access renewals from government facilities, including significant amounts for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

This escalation in healthcare needs parallels the DHC’s previous efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Centre mobilised to provide healthcare to homeless individuals neglected by the government. These ongoing crises highlight the importance of community support.

Dr Perrier’s message is clear, “We will continue to respond to this crisis, but we need generous donations from our supporters to do so.” He urges those who care about fighting xenophobia to join forces and assist in keeping the most vulnerable members of society healthy and secure.

IOS