Everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected.
Dignity is a concept which talks about a person's intrinsic worth - a value of all people, which they are born with as human beings.
The right to dignity is reiterated as a founding value of our democratic state in section 1 of the Constitution, alongside equality and freedom.
Respecting the inherent dignity of our people was one of the key factors for banning the death penalty in our country.
It is also the basis for laws governing reproductive rights in South Africa. Dignity for women involves having control over their own bodies, although those who argue against abortion advocate the right to life of the unborn baby from the moment the egg is fertilised.
The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act secures the right to dignity of women who choose to end a pregnancy.
