South Africa Women's Rights
In 1994, newly elected president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, claimed that "freedom cannot be achieved unless the women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression." The country of South Africa has taken Mandela's call to heart. South Africa offers women, at least on paper, one of the most comprehensive set of rights and protections in the world.
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International Standards
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South Africa signed the U.N. Convention to End All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 1993. This international treaty was used to help outline women's rights in the new South African constitution.
Constitutional Rights
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The South African constitution is one of the most advanced constitutions in the world in protecting women's rights. The constitution states that "Everyone has the right to bodily and psychological integrity, which includes the right (a) to make decisions concerning reproduction and (b) to security in and control over their body." The constitution also provides legal protection for women from discrimination, rape and domestic violence.
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Other Constitutional Rights
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The constitution provides additional rights that improve conditions for women: the right to education, the right to health care, the right to housing and the right to food and water. Although these are not specifically designated for women, they do greatly improve the rights that South African women possess.
Government Agencies and Institutions
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In 1996, the adoption of the South African constitution created the Commission on Gender Equality. This government agency is charged with creating and reviewing public and private policies and actions in South Africa that affect women. The national Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Public Protector also play important roles in protecting the rights of South African women.
Rights Infringed
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Despite the vast legal rights in South Africa, many women still face widespread discrimination and violence. Traditional marriage and inheritance practices often trump national civil rights laws.
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