Although the Act expresses ideals which strive for human dignity and respect, incidences of hate crimes and discrimination towards members of the LGBTI community still occur. This made South Africa one of the first countries to recognise same-sex marriage as well as to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation. This social advancement led to the adoption of the Civil Union Act in 2006. South Africa’s progressive Constitution remains at the forefront of legislation within the African continent, which emphasise inclusion, freedom and societal acceptance.
