Shifting boundaries: re-imagining migration infrastructure for refugees and asylum seekers in Johannesburg

Abstract

The research engages the policy practices of the South African state in handling refugees and asylum seekers. The primary focus is on the articulation of migration policy concerning refugees and asylum seekers into physical infrastructure and their lived experience in the urban context of Johannesburg. South Africa has historically had a progressive refugee policy of non-encampment but its implementation has presented various challenges for applicants, such as delayed processing times, harassment and corruption. By considering the various factors that subsequently drive the development of ‘migration infrastructure’ for refugees and asylum seekers, the project proposes an urban based Refugee Reception Centre located in Hillbrow. This centre aims to mediate the ‘barriers’ associated with seeking asylum in South Africa and create a welcoming threshold into the city. This project stands in opposition to the departure made in the 2017 White Paper on international migration. Currently asylum seekers are permitted to work, study and move freely until their application for refugee status is finalized.The proposed changes, include the development of processing and detention centres near the ports-of-entry which will effectively suspend asylum seeker rights to work, study and live in South Africa until their refugee status is determined. The research recognises the urban settlement trend of forced migrants and recommends the adoption of more sustainable and resilient infrastructure in governing refugee integration