Children's Rights and the Constitution
Children's rights are protected by Section 28 of the Bill of Rights in the South African Constitution. These include the right to:
Child abuse is a major problem in South Africa, and one of the main issues raised by National Children's Day.
Child Abuse in South Africa
Children are some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Many children suffer sexual or physical abuse on a daily basis. Abuse can take many forms and harm a child's development.
Many children in South Africa don't know how or where to report abuse, or don't have access to help. Many children and adults also don't understand what abuse is and the different forms it can take. Because of this, they might not even know that they are the victims or abusers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) gives a good definition of child abuse, and this can help us all understand what it is.
According to the WHO, "Child abuse or maltreatment constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power."
In other words, abuse is when someone in a position of responsibility, trust or power knowingly harms or exploits a child, either physically or emotionally.
Signs of Child Abuse
Child abuse can take many different forms, but here's some help to identify the signs:
For more information and signs that indicate that a child is being abused you can read the following document from Childline - Recognising Child Abuse (54.75 kb).
Who Can Help?
More Information
Sources: Constitutional Court of South Africa, Childline, Department of Social Development, Department of Health, Western Cape Education Department and the Department of Community Safety.