A democratic society is basically one where every citizen has the right to vote in a secret ballot for the people who would govern the country. Once a democratic government has been elected, it also becomes the legislative authority of the country. Citizenship then implies a duty to uphold the law.

In South Africa the Constitution is the highest law of the land, and no law or government decree may supersede it. It is implemented by an independent, 11 member Constitutional Court.

The Constitution provides for a non-racial multiparty democracy, three tiers of government and a justifiable Bill of Human Rights.

Socioeconomic rights such as housing, health care, access to food and water, social security and basic education are also recognised.