On Monday we’ll be celebrating Human Rights Day, a day that never loses its significance and seems even more poignant against the backdrop of the Russian war in Ukraine.
In South Africa, Human Rights Day commemorates the 1960 Sharpeville massacre when 69 people were killed and 180 wounded as apartheid police opened fire on 5 000 peaceful protesters.
With the establishment of South Africa’s progressive constitution, human rights have since been entrenched in law. And while many enjoy the protection of these basic human rights, a really large portion of our population does not. It’s important to have a fundamental understanding of human rights and advocate for them wherever possible.
1. Human dignity
Every individual has the right to dignity, as well as the right to have that dignity respected.
2. Life
Everyone has a right to life and nobody has the right to take a life. This is why South Africa does not have the death penalty – not even the State has the right to take a life.
3. Freedom and security
We all have the right to freedom and security and our judicial system protects this right. Nobody can be detained without a trial, and anyone who is arrested has the right to consult with a lawyer. If found guilty in court, a person still maintains the rights to life, education and proper living conditions.
4. Personal privacy
The right to personal privacy means that, unless ordered by a court to do so, nobody has the right to search your home or seize your personal possessions. In the modern age, the POPI Act is extending those rights further in the digital realm.
5. Freedom of expression
While every person has the right to say or write what they want, it cannot violate another person’s rights or break the law.
6. Freedom of association
Everyone has the right to associate with any individual, union, club, religious denomination, organisation or fraternity.
7. Political rights
Every citizen has the right to form a political party, participate in political activities, campaign for causes or recruit members to a political party. Everyone has the right to free and fair elections, and to stand for public office.
8. Education
Everyone has the right to basic education which includes further education.
9. Healthcare, food, water and social services
All citizens have the right to access to healthcare services, sufficient food and water, and social security. Social assistance should be provided in cases where people cannot afford these rights.
10. Protection against slavery, servitude and forced labour
Every individual has the right to choose the type of work they do and must be paid for it accordingly. Nobody can be forced to work for someone.
11. Citizenship
An individual’s South African citizenship will remain in place and can never be taken away from them.
12. Housing
Everyone has the right to adequate housing and no member of State can evict you from a home you own.
13. Children’s rights
All children have the right to parental care, shelter and food. Children may not be neglected, abused or forced to work.
14. Language and culture
Everyone has the right to use the language of their choice and to participate in the cultural life of their choice.
15. Equality
Everyone is equal before the law, and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law.
Remember that it’s as important to know your rights as it is to advocate for the basic human rights of others.
Source: South African Human Rights Commission
