SOUTH AFRICA:

"The Right to Eat" Clause

in the South African Constitution

Date: Tue, 9 Dec 1997 17:26:02 EST
From: James Edward Lawson Jr. <lawson@CMR.GOV>
Subject: Re: A Shocking TV Ad! Then what?

Is there any objection to including in a social contract or charter of
rights the "right to eat"? Would that be overwhelmingly radical? FWP.

South Africa Constitution Chapter 2 has the provision. Notice the phrase
"progressive realization". This is a recognition that the mere existance
of the words do not convey the right, BUT the state is nevertheless mandated
to work toward it as rapidly as possible.

Health care, food, water and social security

27. (1) Everyone has the right to have access to

a. health care services, including reproductive health care;
b. sufficient food and water; and
c. social security, including, if they are unable to support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.

(2) The state must take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its available resources, to achieve the progressive realisation of each of these rights.

Children

28. (1) Every child has the right

a. to a name and a nationality from birth;
b. to family care or parental care, or to appropriate alternative care when removed from the family environment;
c. to basic nutrition, shelter, basic health care services and social services;

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