SAHRC fights back against misinformation over its workforce and mission
SA Human Rights Commission.
Image: File
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) unveiled four comprehensive reports designed to tackle pressing human rights challenges, particularly those affecting the country’s most vulnerable populations.
In an effort to address the inaccuracies, the SAHRC released a statement on Tuesday aimed at dispelling myths, particularly on social media, where misinformation has flourished.
One of the most persistent allegations is that a significant portion of the SAHRC's staff comprises non-nationals. The Commission denied the claim, stating that out of its total staff of 169, only seven employees are non-nationals. Furthermore, a claim that the majority of senior managers are non-nationals was denied. The commission said that among its 16 senior managers, only one is a non-national.
"The persistence of this incorrect and false narrative, especially on social media platforms, necessitated this statement to nullify this disinformation campaign and provide facts," said SAHRC.
Furthermore, the Commission rejected the narrative that it serves only non-nationals. This comes after the organisation has been heavily criticised for being against Operation Dudula.
The commission said statistics for the 2024-25 financial year underscore this commitment, after successfully finalising 7,516 complaints, predominantly from South African citizens.
Key Findings from the Reports
The released reports present a comprehensive analysis of human rights in South Africa, illuminating both successes and areas requiring urgent attention. Highlights from the reports include:
- State of Human Rights Report (2024-25): The report quantified the Commission's activities, detailing 1,394 monitoring activities and 3,180 human rights advocacy initiatives. It revealed a staggering volume of complaints centred on racism, xenophobia, and inadequate access to basic services.
- Monitoring the Implementation of Recommendations Report: This report captured vital issues observed during the 2024 General Elections, exposing the urgent need for improved sanitation and connectivity in schools, as well as better training for electoral officials.
- Section 184(3) Report: Addressing systemic issues, this report highlighted significant gaps in essential services, including housing, health, and social security, while underscoring the lack of adequate governmental responses to pressing challenges.
- International and Regional Human Rights Report: The report encapsulated South Africa’s recent engagements with international committees and reinforced the SAHRC's status as an 'A-status' national human rights institution, signalling global recognition of its importance.
Looking ahead, the SAHRC said it's planning to take further action by presenting these reports before Parliament, compelling relevant authorities to address the noted human rights concerns.
The Commission has pledged to enhance public awareness campaigns aimed at correcting misinformation and educating the populace about human rights issues. Additionally, it intends to utilise legal avenues to confront both government and private entities that neglect their obligations.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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