9th May 2026
We, Ethiopians and Europeans of Ethiopian origin residing in several European countries, organized as Defend Ethiopia Task Force in Europe (DETFE), are releasing this statement to express our grave concern regarding the recent tragic spate of violences in South Africa against African immigrants currently living and working there.
Amongst many, the reason for such vitriolic hatred and physical violence, including two murders of defenseless hard working and law-abiding Ethiopians is very hard to accept. Considering the strong feeling of pride, honour and privilege Africans had in supporting the struggle to liberate our South African brothers and sisters from the savage apartheid regime; this recent explosion of violence is even harder to stomach.
We understand the current intense and volatile global economic, security and geopolitical challenges exacerbate the local challenges in the form of lack of opportunities for all, particularly for us in the African continent. However, this level of unjustified violent attack begs the immediate intervention of local law enforcement.
As such, the violence against Africans in the South Africa we all love must not be allowed to create a siege and fear atmosphere for immigrants looking to improve their lives.
In light of the above, we trust in the ongoing commitment of the authorities of the Republic of South Africa to ensure the safety of all diverse communities and their full and fundamental human rights.
Recent reports indicate that at least five Ethiopian nationals were killed in Johannesburg during a recent wave of suspected targeted and xenophobic attacks. Historically, the number of victims across similar incidents has been even higher, making urgent action all the more necessary.
DETF-EU Steering Group
May 2026
