Socio-Economic Rights in South Africa: A resource book

Abstract

Socio-economic rights are those rights that give people access to certain basic needs necessary for human beings to lead a dignified life. Government and, in certain circumstances, private individuals and bodies, can be held accountable if they do not respect, protect, promote and fulfil these rights Socio-economic rights are especially relevant for vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in society. They are important tools for these groups, who are often most affected by poverty and who experience a number of barriers that block their access to resources, opportunities and services in society. Our Constitution (Act 108 of 1996) provides a number ways for claiming and defending basic needs, such as our socio-economic rights to housing, health care, food and water, which is what this book focuses on.