The South African Human Rights Commission – www.sahrc.org.za

These Commissioners are appointed by Parliament and their task is to get all South Africans to respect and observe human rights, and to investigate, report on and take steps to stop human rights violations (people not getting their rights) and get help for victims.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development – Click here to download a step-by-step guide to lodging an equality case.

Commission for Gender Equality – www.cge.org.za

This government commission’s aims are to research, educate and develop policy around gender equality, plus take up cases.

Public Protector – www.pprotect.org/

This government office investigates and helps to put right unlawful or improper actions by government departments or employees.

Broadcasting Complaints Commission – www.bccsa.co.za/

The BCCA is an independent judicial tribunal that looks into complaints (e.g. racism on air) from the public about members of the National Association of Broadcasters, and rules on them. It can fine members. It makes rulings in line with the Constitution and our laws.

The Community Law Centre – www.communitylawcentre.org.za

This Centre is at the University of the Western Cape and aims to ‘promote good governance, socio-economic development and the protection of the rights of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.’

Lawyers for Human Rights – www.lhr.org.za/programme

This organisation ‘provides free legal services to vulnerable, marginalised and indigent individuals and communities, both non-national and South African, who are victims of unlawful infringements of their constitutional rights.’

There are many organisations that are involved in the protection of human rights generally in South Africa. Click here to view these organisations’ contact details.