An examination of people's reaction to the Children's Act 39 Section 134 in Chesterville (Durban).
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Date
2015
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Abstract
The study examines people’s reaction to the Children’s Act (No. 38 of 2005), which emanated from the Bill of Rights enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996). The primary aim of the research project was to explore and examine the views of parents in the Durban metro Region with specific reference to those residing in Chesterville Township regarding reproductive health care as embedded in the Children’s Act of 2005 Section 134. This Act has as its primary aims, to promote the preservation and strengthening of families and to give effect to the rights of children as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. This includes the protection of children from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation and the fact that the best interest of a child are of paramount importance in every matter concerning children.
The study used semi-structured interviews with parents, teachers/educators and the youth aged between 18 and 20 years. Focus group discussions were also used in order to maximize data sets to be used for interpretation. The results revealed that people hold different views regarding the Children’s Act. These views are premised on a number of factors such as age, ethnicity and religious affiliation. As such, it is recommended that in assessing the impact of the Act on the ground, government needs to consider these and other factors in its assessment measures. Lastly, taking a cue from the results of this study, it is recommended that when formulating legislation government should consult widely before an Act of parliament is passed. This would ensure that the resultant Act is embraced by many South Africans across different spectra.
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Master of Political Science in Public Policy. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2015
Keywords
Children's rights., Child welfare., Theses--Public Policy., Children--Legal status, laws, etc.--South Africa., South Africa.--Children's Act, 2005.