, SSL2601 Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025 (543838)
DUE 12 August 2025
Use this document as a guide and for references to answer your assignment
QUESTION: (2 answers provided)
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution gives “everyone” the right to have access to social security and
social assistance if they are not able to support themselves and their dependants. With reference to
relevant authorities, discuss what is meant by “everyone” having the right to have access to social
security.
Section 27(1)(c): The Meaning of “Everyone” in the Right to Have Access to
Social Security
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996
provides:
“Everyone has the right to have access to... social security, including, if they are
unable to support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.”
This right forms part of the Bill of Rights and is considered a socio-economic
right, aimed at promoting dignity, equality, and freedom.
Meaning of “Everyone”
The term “everyone” is deliberately broad. Courts have interpreted it expansively
to encompass not only citizens but also certain categories of non-citizens,
depending on the context. However, its precise scope has been the subject of
constitutional interpretation, particularly in the case of social security and social
assistance.
Semester 2 2025 (543838)
DUE 12 August 2025
Use this document as a guide and for references to answer your assignment
QUESTION: (2 answers provided)
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution gives “everyone” the right to have access to social security and
social assistance if they are not able to support themselves and their dependants. With reference to
relevant authorities, discuss what is meant by “everyone” having the right to have access to social
security.
Section 27(1)(c): The Meaning of “Everyone” in the Right to Have Access to
Social Security
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996
provides:
“Everyone has the right to have access to... social security, including, if they are
unable to support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.”
This right forms part of the Bill of Rights and is considered a socio-economic
right, aimed at promoting dignity, equality, and freedom.
Meaning of “Everyone”
The term “everyone” is deliberately broad. Courts have interpreted it expansively
to encompass not only citizens but also certain categories of non-citizens,
depending on the context. However, its precise scope has been the subject of
constitutional interpretation, particularly in the case of social security and social
assistance.
