THE 1996 CONSTITUTION - 2

THE FOUNDATIONAL VALUES

The foundational values in section 1 lie at the heart of the Constitution. They are so central that – unlike other provisions that can be amended with a two thirds majority – they require a 75% majority for amendment.

The Republic of South Africa

The Republic of South Africa is one, sovereign, democratic state founded on the following values:

  • Human dignity
  • The achievement of equality
  • The advancement of human rights and freedoms
  • Non-racialism
  • Non-sexism
  • Supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law
  • Universal adult suffrage
  • A national common voters roll
  • Regular elections
  • A multi-party system of democratic government
  • Accountability, responsiveness and openness