Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996
Governing principles
- Jurisdiction
- South Africa
- Provision
- 198
- Source language
- English
- Recorded status
- in force
More details
- Recorded status
- in force
Provision text
Official sourceThe following principles govern national security in the Republic:
(a) National security must reflect the resolve of South Africans, as individuals and
as a nation, to live as equals, to live in peace and harmony, to be free from fear
and want and to seek a better life.
(b) The resolve to live in peace and harmony precludes any South African citizen
from participating in armed conflict, nationally or internationally, except as
provided for in terms of the Constitution or national legislation.
(c) National security must be pursued in compliance with the law, including
international law.
(d) National security is subject to the authority of Parliament and the national
executive.
Source record
Source and verification
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 · justice.gov.za · Retrieved 17 August 2026.
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