Despite significant progress, South Africa continues to grapple with persistent human rights challenges such as poverty, unemployment and inequality. Gender-based violence and femicide, as well as crime, remain pervasive, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable members of society, such as older persons, women, persons with disabilities, and children. Addressing these societal ills requires collective action and commitment from all sectors.

This year’s National Human Rights Day comes at a time when the world is closely examining South Africa’s human rights track record, particularly in light of public discourse of allegations of state discrimination of certain groups in the wake of the signing into law of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act and the Expropriation Act. The Commission reaffirms that South Africa is a constitutional democracy founded on the principles of rule of law and constitutionalism. The South African Constitution explicitly acknowledges the injustices of the past and the imperative to heal societal divisions while fostering a nation built on democratic values, social justice, and fundamental human rights.

South Africa’s independent judiciary plays a critical role in ensuring that the executive adheres to the rule of the law in its decision-making processes. Additionally, Chapter 9 institutions, established by the Constitution, serve as independent watchdogs dedicated to monitoring, promoting and protecting human rights.

In response to the country’s ongoing challenges, the SAHRC continues to implement programs designed to educate the public about human rights and mechanisms available to seek redress when those rights are violated; hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations; and monitor South Africa’s compliance with human rights obligations, as mandated by Section 184 of the Constitution.

To intensify the promotion, protection, and monitoring of human rights, the Commission has planned a series of activities in the entire country and interventions throughout March aimed at strengthening constitutional democracy. The Commission urges all members of society to remain vigilant against human rights violations and actively contribute to the advancement of human rights for a just and equitable South Africa.

The SAHRC will host a three-day convening from 25 – 27 March 2025 to launch its campaign: Promoting a Culture of Human Rights and Social Harmony through the Resolution of the National Question. This convening will provide a platform for open and honest discussions on the state of the nation and its future, viewed through a human rights lens.  The Commission envisages that the Campaign will draw from the past while crafting a human rights-based future where everyone experiences a sense of affective and material belongingness. Our premise is that South Africa will not realise a culture of human rights without a collective sense of belonging based on upholding the dignity of all, substantive equality, social justice, and constitutionalism. The Commission invites all stakeholders to participate in these critical conversations aimed at fostering nation building, social cohesion, and the realisation of human rights.

ENDS

For further information, Mr Wisani Baloyi on 081 016 8308 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Given Makhuvele @ 082 773 4428/ 072 1977 581 (WhatsApp) email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.