Explained: What is the March and March movement?

Updated June 30, 2026, 8:38 a.m. | By East Coast Breakfast

Here’s what the movement stands for, why protests took place on 30 June, and why immigration has become one of South Africa’s most debated issues.

NOTE: This article aims to explain the March and March movement and the public debate surrounding it. It does not endorse the views of the movement or those of its critics. Readers are encouraged to consult multiple credible sources and official statements when forming their own opinions on this evolving issue.

If you’ve been scrolling through social media or following the news today, chances are you’ve seen the words “March and March” trending.

The movement has dominated conversations across South Africa, with thousands of people taking part in demonstrations and many others asking the same question: What exactly is March and March, and why has it become such a talking point?

ALSO READ: Live updates: March and March protests

What is the March and March movement?

March and March is a South African civic movement that says its mission is to advocate for the enforcement of the country’s immigration laws, particularly those relating to undocumented foreign nationals.

The movement argues that illegal immigration places additional pressure on public services, employment opportunities, housing, healthcare and national security.

Organisers say they are not opposed to legal immigration but rather want existing laws to be applied consistently.

In recent months, the movement has gained momentum through public demonstrations, social media campaigns and nationwide marches calling on government to strengthen border security and immigration enforcement.

Why is 30 June significant?

The movement declared 30 June as a symbolic deadline for government to act on undocumented immigration, leading to demonstrations in several provinces.

In anticipation of the marches, authorities increased police visibility in key areas and appealed for protests to remain peaceful.

Government also warned that while peaceful protest is protected by the Constitution, intimidation, violence and vigilantism will not be tolerated.

ALSO READ: SANTACO reassures commuters of normal operations ahead June 30 marches

Why is the movement controversial?

Like many issues involving immigration, opinions on March and March are deeply divided.
Supporters believe:

South Africa should enforce its immigration laws more effectively.
Undocumented immigration places strain on already stretched public resources.
Government needs to strengthen border management and documentation processes.
Citizens have the right to peacefully demand action from elected leaders.

Critics argue:

The movement’s messaging can contribute to xenophobia and hostility towards foreign nationals.
Legal migrants and refugees may become targets despite complying with South African law.
Immigration enforcement should remain the responsibility of the state, not communities.
Broad anti-immigration rhetoric risks escalating tensions and violence.

Why has immigration become such a major issue?

Immigration has become one of South Africa’s most debated topics because it intersects with several ongoing challenges, including:

High unemployment.
Pressure on public healthcare and education.
Housing shortages.
Border management.
Crime and public safety concerns.

While many South Africans believe undocumented immigration contributes to these issues, economists and policy experts often point out that the country’s challenges are complex and cannot be attributed to a single factor.

This has made immigration one of the country’s most emotionally charged political conversations.

ALSO READ: Police deploy ahead of protesters' anti-migrant 'deadline'

Whether viewed as a call for stronger law enforcement or a movement that risks fuelling anti-immigrant sentiment, March and March has undeniably placed immigration at the centre of South Africa’s national conversation.

The debate extends beyond today’s marches. It raises broader questions about border security, governance, economic opportunity, public services and how South Africa balances the rule of law with its constitutional commitment to human rights.