Section 10

Human Dignity

Dignity is inherent — it cannot be earned, lost, or taken away by social position, family role, gender, or behaviour of others. Any act that degrades you —...

Free Chapter 2 — Bill of Rights Constitution of South Africa, 1996

What Section 10 Says

Everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected.

Plain-Language Explanation

Practical Significance
Dignity is inherent — it cannot be earned, lost, or taken away by social position, family role, gender, or behaviour of others. Any act that degrades you — including dismissal, mockery, or exclusion — is a violation of a constitutional right.

Practical Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What does inherent dignity mean?
Dignity is inherent — it cannot be earned, lost, or taken away by your social position, family role, gender, age, or the behaviour of others. Every person has it automatically by virtue of being human. Any act that degrades, humiliates, or dehumanises you violates a constitutional right.
Is dignity violated by verbal abuse?
Yes. Courts have found that severe verbal abuse, public humiliation, and degrading treatment violate Section 10. Dignity applies in the workplace, at home, in schools, and in all public spaces.

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