The plain language guide to South Africa’s Bill of Rights South Africa’s Bill of Rights, chapter 2 of the constitution, is one of the most progressive in the world. It protects the human rights of everyone in the country – young or old, citizen, visitor or migrant. The bill was adopted in 1996 just two years after the first democratic elections that finally ended formal apartheid. It is a cornerstone of South Africa’s democracy, enshrining the values of human dignity, equality and freedom. All laws and organs of state must respect the Bill of Rights. The state must protect and promote the rights it sets out and make sure they are fulfilled. But do you really know your rights? Our no-nonsense guide to the Bill of Rights will help you understand your rights, and the rights of everyone else in South Africa.