Amnesty International South Africa said on Friday that despite a continuing pattern of violence against human rights defenders in South Africa, there is little protection for them or accountability for perpetrators.

Ahead of Human Rights Day, Amnesty International South Africa wants government to uphold its international law obligations to protect human rights defenders and ensure their safety.

South Africa will on Saturday commemorate Human Rights Day, to commemorate and honour those who fought for liberation and the rights enjoyed today.

Amnesty International South Africa executive director Shenilla Mohamed pointed out that three decades after South Africa adopted its Constitution, human rights defenders were still being silenced with threats, violence, and death.

“In a society that values justice and equality, as set out in the Constitution, the protection of those who advocate for human rights should be paramount,” she said.

Mohamed highlighted that human rights defenders played a crucial role in holding authorities accountable and advancing human rights and social justice.

“Yet, tragically, many of these brave individuals face intimidation, harassment, and even violence and death for their noble efforts. As human rights face renewed pressure globally, South Africa has a responsibility to lead, not just in rhetoric, but in action, by safeguarding human rights defenders,” she added.

Mohamed pointed out that last month, just before President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his State of the Nation Address, Abahlali baseMjondolo activist and human rights defender Zweli Mkhize was shot and killed.

“This was after receiving threats,” she stressed.

Mohamed noted that after Mkhize’s killing, there were many messages of solidarity and calls for justice, but pointed out a lack of reaction from government.

“For more than a year Amnesty International South Africa has been calling on President Ramaphosa and the government he leads to acknowledge human rights defenders and their need for protection, and yet there has been silence,” she said.

Mohamed stated that the attacks on those fighting for basic rights were a grave violation of human dignity.

“It is imperative that our government takes decisive action to ensure the protection of these individuals and enacts strong legislation to safeguard their rights.” There is an urgent need for legislative measures to safeguard the lives of human rights defenders.

“South Africa has a long and painful history of violence, where life is often regarded as cheap. However, the right to life is a fundamental human right that must be respected and protected by all. Every person, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations, deserves to live without fear of persecution or harm,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mohamed pointed out that authoritarianism was surging worldwide, and said this came with the silencing of critical voices.

She urged States to ensure robust protection for those who placed themselves at risk to defend human rights.

“While Amnesty International commends the South African government for its advocacy on behalf of the people of Gaza, it must also uphold and safeguard the human rights of all people living in South Africa with equal determination. This requires concrete actions, accountability, and policies addressing the dire conditions faced by many within the country,” she said.