SSL2601
Assignment 1
Unique No: 543838
Semester 2 2025
Due 12 August 2025
, SSL2601
Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025
Unique No: 543838
Due 12 August 2025
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.
Introduction
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 provides that
“everyone has the right to have access to social security, including, if they are unable to
support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.” The key
interpretive issue is the meaning of the term “everyone” within this provision. This
requires reference to the constitutional text, relevant case law, and a purposive
approach to interpretation in line with South Africa’s constitutional values.
Textual and Purposive Interpretation of “Everyone”
The word “everyone” in its ordinary meaning includes all people without qualification.
The Constitution frequently uses this term to confer broad, inclusive rights such as the
right to equality (section 9) and the right to dignity (section 10). A purposive reading,
which is mandated in constitutional interpretation, supports the view that “everyone”
includes not only citizens but also certain categories of non-citizens, especially those
lawfully present in the country.
Assignment 1
Unique No: 543838
Semester 2 2025
Due 12 August 2025
, SSL2601
Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025
Unique No: 543838
Due 12 August 2025
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.
Introduction
Section 27(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 provides that
“everyone has the right to have access to social security, including, if they are unable to
support themselves and their dependants, appropriate social assistance.” The key
interpretive issue is the meaning of the term “everyone” within this provision. This
requires reference to the constitutional text, relevant case law, and a purposive
approach to interpretation in line with South Africa’s constitutional values.
Textual and Purposive Interpretation of “Everyone”
The word “everyone” in its ordinary meaning includes all people without qualification.
The Constitution frequently uses this term to confer broad, inclusive rights such as the
right to equality (section 9) and the right to dignity (section 10). A purposive reading,
which is mandated in constitutional interpretation, supports the view that “everyone”
includes not only citizens but also certain categories of non-citizens, especially those
lawfully present in the country.
