By Wayne Ncube | National Director
It is with immense pride and profound gratitude that we share this report, chronicling a quarter teeming with breakthroughs and tireless efforts to fortify the bedrock of human rights in South Africa and beyond. The successes we celebrate are not solitary triumphs but a collective determination, partnership, and unwavering support from each of you and our sector as a whole.
Advocacy and Legal Milestones
Engagement in International Human Rights Discourse
This quarter, LHR was honored to engage in the Africa Region Intersessional Consultation on a United Nations instrument that will regulate transnational corporations regarding human rights. This event in Accra, Ghana, was a vibrant confluence of ideas and aspirations, setting the stage for more robust human rights protections across the continent.
Judicial Victories in Gender Equality
A groundbreaking judgment from the Johannesburg High Court marked a historic moment for gender equality. The court's decision in Werner van Wyk & Others v Minister of Employment and Labour made strides in non-discrimination by acknowledging the rights of all parents to parental leave. This momentous decision propels us toward a more inclusive society, reaffirming the equal responsibilities and joys of parenthood, regardless of gender.
Constitutional Clarity on Immigration Detention
A landmark ruling by the Constitutional Court in the matter of Minister of Home Affairs v LHR has clarified the rights of those detained under section 34(1) of the Immigration Act. This judgement not only reinforces the legal obligation to present detainees before a court within 48 hours but also holds the government accountable for its legal conduct.
Affirmation of Educational Rights for Prison Inmates
In another victory, the Supreme Court of Appeal upheld the right of incarcerated students to use personal laptop computers for their education, a testament to LHR's dedication to educational rights and prison reform.
Representation at the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights
LHR's representation at the 77th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights in Arusha was a proud moment, with our Penal Reform and Environmental Rights Programs leading critical discussions on immigration detention and corporate responsibility.
Monitoring International Business & Human Rights Negotiations
Our Environmental Rights Programme played a pivotal role at the 9th session of negotiations on a legally binding Business & Human Rights instrument, collaborating with global partners to inform and influence international human rights policies.
Campaigns and Community Engagement
#UnblockMyID #UnlockMyLife Campaign
The intensification of our campaign this quarter has been a vocal and vigorous challenge to the unlawful ID blocking by the Department of Home Affairs. Through innovative approaches like our first-ever podcast series, we've amplified the voices of those affected and engaged stakeholders on the significant repercussions of this practice.
Empowering Women and Children
Our commitment to reducing gender-based violence through the empowerment of socio-economic rights has been unwavering. In partnership with ProBono.Org and generous support from the Embassy of Germany in South Africa, we conducted community workshops addressing critical issues of housing, property rights, and legal succession.
Victory Against 'Abandonment' Provisions
The Constitutional Court's affirmation that the 'abandonment' provisions in the Refugees Act are unconstitutional was a significant achievement in protecting the rights of asylum seekers and refugees, preventing unwarranted deportations.
Knowledge Dissemination
Research on Immigration Detention
The release of our research report, "The Status of Immigration Detention in South Africa," provides invaluable insights into the current state of immigration detention, influencing policymakers and legal practitioners alike.
Conclusion
As we reflect on a quarter filled with landmark judicial decisions, influential international engagements, and ground-breaking campaigns, we are reminded that the journey towards justice and equality is a continuous pursuit. The progress we have made is a direct result of your steadfast support and belief in our cause.
Thank you for your contribution to upholding the rule of law and enhancing access to justice in South Africa. Together, we are forging a path to a more just and equitable future.
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By Wayne Ncube | National Director
By Wayne Ncube | National Director
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