Africans Show Broad Social Tolerance but Restrictive Immigration Views, Afrobarometer Report Finds
A new Afrobarometer report, based on 50,961 interviews across 38 African countries in 2024/2025, reveals that while most Africans express tolerance for ethnic, religious, and national differences, they hold restrictive attitudes towards immigration. The analysis indicates that large majorities accept neighbors of different ethnicities, religions, political affiliations, and nationalities. However, immigration appears to be a boundary for inclusion, with fewer than half of Africans believing immigrants benefit their economy. A significant majority favors admitting fewer foreign job seekers and refugees, with South Africa exhibiting some of the continent's most restrictive views. The report also highlights that most Africans value their national identity at least as highly as their ethnicity, though perceptions of unfair treatment based on ethnicity are widespread. Overall, the findings portray a continent with strong family and community ties and broad social tolerance, but also weaker trust across social b...
