Celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution, public interest law centre SECTION27 and WeThePeopleSA have launched the Know Your Constitution Handbook, free for download to the public.

The handbook is designed to deepen people’s understanding of their constitutional rights, democratic participation, and the power bestowed on citizens by the Constitution.

“This constitutional literacy resource is part of a digital campaign celebrating the 30 years since the Constitution was adopted and signed in 1996, a milestone that invites reflection on the country’s democratic journey and renewed commitment to the values of human dignity, equality, and freedom,” the organisations said.

The handbook explains how the Constitution works, in laymen’s terms, unpacks key principles, and shows how constitutional rights can be used in everyday life.

The Know Your Constitution Handbook translates constitutional rights into real-life contexts.

“It demonstrates how rights such as dignity, equality and access to basic services shape daily life in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. By clarifying both the responsibilities of the state and the role of the public, the handbook shows how rights work together to promote human wellbeing, accountability, and social justice,” the organisations pointed out.

The Know Your Constitution Handbook also outlines practical ways to act, while explaining how South Africa’s democracy functions.

“…the role of Chapter 9 institutions, and where people can seek help when rights are threatened. By highlighting both formal and informal avenues for redress, it positions constitutional knowledge as a tool for everyday empowerment and positive change,” the organisations said.

The handbook can be downloaded from these links:

WeThePeople

SECTION27