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The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC/ Commission) has made a submission to the National Treasury regarding the 2025 Budget. In its submission, the Commission calls on the National Treasury to prioritise a human rights-centric and pro-poor approach in the 2025 budget allocations. The Commission’s submission on the 2025 Budget highlights the urgent need for increased funding in education, healthcare, and social services to address persistent inequalities and ensure the progressive realisation of socio-economic rights.

Additionally, the Commission expressed concerns about the ongoing implementation of austerity measures, which have let to substantial budget cuts to essential public services. Recent proposals to further reduce funding to the education and health sectors pose a risk to jobs and could aggravate existing inequalities. This continuation of austerity measures may also hinder the government’s ability to fulfil its constitutional and international obligations concerning human rights.

To address these concerns, the Commission has proposed: 

Increased budget allocations for education, health, and social services.

A more balanced and rights-based approach to fiscal consolidation, preventing unjustifiable regressions in social spending.

The implementation of progressive taxation policies to reduce inequality and increase state revenue.

Strengthened anti-corruption measures to recover public funds lost due to mismanagement and corruption.

Improved public participation mechanisms in budget formulation to ensure transparency and accountability.

In the Commission’s view, adopting a human rights-centric and pro-poor budget is crucial for promoting social justice, addressing historical injustices, and fostering a more equitable society.

Issued by South African Human Rights Commission