Section 13

Slavery, Servitude and Forced Labour

Unpaid domestic labour imposed on a family member as a gender role, or coerced work without pay, may constitute a violation of this right.

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

What Section 13 Says

No one may be subjected to slavery, servitude or forced labour.

Plain-Language Explanation

Practical Significance
Unpaid domestic labour imposed on a family member as a gender role, or coerced work without pay, may constitute a violation of this right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Section 13 apply to unpaid domestic labour?
Unpaid domestic labour imposed through coercion, threats, or control — particularly on family members who have no real choice — may constitute a violation of the prohibition on servitude or forced labour. The circumstances matter, but economic control and coercion are relevant factors.
What is the difference between slavery, servitude, and forced labour?
Slavery involves ownership of a person. Servitude involves complete control over a person's life and labour without meaningful freedom to leave. Forced labour means being compelled to work through threats, violence, debt bondage, or other coercion. All three are prohibited absolutely.

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