JOHANNESBURG - Did you know South Africa’s Constitution has been amended 18 times?
Many people think the Constitution is set in stone. But it was never intended to stand still. It was designed to evolve alongside the country and its people.
When the Constitution came into effect in 1996, it laid the foundation for a democratic South Africa built on human dignity, equality and freedom. But its authors also recognised that the country would change and that future generations might face challenges that required constitutional reform.
That’s why the Constitution provides a process for amendments. Parliament can consider proposed changes, but amending the Constitution is not a simple process. Depending on the provision being changed, amendments require specific levels of support in the National Assembly and, in some cases, the National Council of Provinces. Public participation is also an important part of the process.
South Africans can also make their voices heard by submitting proposals for constitutional changes through the relevant parliamentary processes. This reinforces an important principle: the Constitution belongs to the people, not just politicians, lawyers or judges.
Since 1996, the Constitution has been amended 18 times. One significant change was the recognition of South African Sign Language as the country’s 12th official language.
This was about more than adding another language to the list. It was a landmark step towards recognising the Deaf community, promoting inclusion and strengthening the recognition of linguistic rights.
The Constitution is often described as a living document because it can adapt to the changing needs of society while remaining grounded in its founding values of human dignity, equality and freedom.
A Constitution that can evolve with its people can continue to protect their rights for generations to come.
- Know Your Constitution is brought to you by We The People South Africa and Constitution Hill.