South African Children's Rights

Rights of Children in South Africa

• The rights of children in South Africa are enshrined in the Constitution.
• The South African Constitution recognizes children as having the capacity to exercise their rights from the age of 18.
• Children in South Africa have the right to education, freedom of expression, and healthcare.
• The right to work is not a guaranteed right for children in South Africa.
• The minimum age for employment in South Africa is 18.

Legal Principles and Government Departments

• The Best Interests of the Child Principle prioritizes the best interests of the child in all matters concerning them.
• The Department of Social Development is primarily responsible for the protection and promotion of children's rights in South Africa.

Corporal Punishment and Implementation of UN Convention

• Corporal punishment is not allowed in schools in South Africa, and the penalty is both a fine and imprisonment.
• The South African Human Rights Commission oversees the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in South Africa.

Rights and Age of Consent

• Children in South Africa have the right to access information and media suitable for their age.
• The legal age of consent for sexual activities in South Africa is 18.