Insight by Nontuthuzelo Fuzile
As we conclude the Human Rights Month, we at the AIDS Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) take this opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the persistent challenges faced by Vulnerable communities in the fight for Justice, Equality, and Dignity. This month has been a commandingreminder that Human Rights are not abstract ideals, but tangible entitlements that must be upheld for all, especially for those who continue to experience systemic discrimination and exclusion.
For instance, Reproductive Health Rights remain a crucial Human Rights issue, and should be treated as such. Every individual deserves the ability to make informed decisions about their body, access quality healthcare without discrimination, and live free from coercion or violence. Yet, in many communities across South Africa, barriers such as limited healthcare access, restrictive policies, and deep-rooted social stigma persist.
AFSA has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, working closely with health facilities and Community-Based Organisations, to ensure meaningful access to Reproductive Healthcare. Through Advocacy and implementation programs, we have seen progress in breaking down these barriers, but much more needs to be done to ensure that reproductive rights are fully realised for all.
Access to Justice is another cornerstone of Human Rights, yet many survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) face significant hurdles when seeking legal recourse. Through AFSA’s Human Rights Program, we have collaborated with partners such as Access Chapter 2 to provide legal support for rape and GBV cases, helping survivors navigate the justice system.
The effectiveness of these interventions goes beyond securing convictions, it is about driving systemic change to ensure survivors are heard, protected, and empowered. However, challenges remain, including legal system backlogs, inadequate resources, and the ongoing threat of funding cuts that could jeopardise these essential services.
Another elephant in the room is the issue of Sex Workers whocontinue to be among the most marginalised and Vulnerable groups in our country. Criminalisation, police brutality, and lack of access to legal protection place them at extreme risk of violence and exploitation. Organisations such as the Sisonke National Movement have been instrumental in advocating for decriminalisation and pushing for policies that protect Sex Workers from abuse and discrimination.
AFSA stands in solidarity with Sex Workers in their fight for Human Rights and legal recognition. Decriminalisation is not just a policy debate—it is a Human Rights imperative that will ensure Sex Workers can access healthcare, legal protection, and justice without fear of persecution.
Key and Vulnerable Populations at large, including People Living with HIV, TB patients, and the LGBTQI+ community, continue to face discrimination at the hands of institutions meant to protect them. Reports of Human Rights violations by law enforcement and systemic bias in the justice system highlight the urgent need for institutional reform and accountability.
AFSA Human Right Programme implementing partners have taken steps to address these violations, but more robust mechanisms are required to prevent further abuses. AFSA remains committed to advocating for policies that safeguard the rights of all individuals, ensuring that justice is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
As we move beyond Human Rights Month, we must recognise that the fight for human dignity and justice does not end here. AFSA calls on the Government, Civil Society, and all South Africans to actively work towards:
• Strengthening Reproductive Health Rights through policy reforms and community engagement.
• Expanding legal support for GBV survivors and Key Populations.
• Advocating for the decriminalisation of Sex Work to protect the rights and safety of Sex Workers.
• Holding institutions accountable for Human Rights violations and ensuring access to justice for all.
The struggle for Human Rights is ongoing, and only through collective action can we build a South Africa that truly upholds the principles of justice, equality, and freedom for all.
Nontuthuzelo Fuzile – AFSA Human Rights Programme Manager
