Aware.org commemorates Human Rights Day by reinforcing commitment to responsible alcohol consumption

As South Africa commemorates 30 years since the landmark 1994 elections that ushered in a new democracy and a world-renowned Constitution, Aware.org affirms its dedication to promoting responsible alcohol consumption in alignment with fundamental human rights principles.

Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the struggles endured and the victories achieved in the journey toward equality, dignity and justice for all South Africans. At the core of these rights is the right to good health, safety and protection for every individual. Aware.org’s perspective includes playing an impactful part in addressing emerging challenges that threaten some of these very rights, particularly for vulnerable populations.

“We’ve come such a long way in working toward guaranteeing human rights for all South Africans,” says Carmen Mohapi, managing director of Aware.org. “But the struggle continues. Today, we call for an increased focus on alcohol harm reduction as a critical aspect of upholding these rights.”

An organisation dedicated to reducing the harmful use of alcohol, Aware.org recognises the critical intersection between human rights and responsible alcohol consumption. “Aware.org stands for progressive human rights that make an impact at societal level. Realising these rights requires dynamic and positive social interactions with multiple socio-economic drivers. This aligns seamlessly with our ‘whole-of-society’ approach that sees Aware.org continually engaging with partners and various stakeholders on harm reduction to foster positive attitudes and behaviours toward responsible drinking.”

The organisation highlights the harmful impacts of alcohol misuse on individuals, families and communities. Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) – a lifelong disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure – is a stark example of how alcohol consumption can infringe upon a fundamental right: the right to protection and safety of every child.

All three Aware.org pillars – to eradicate underage drinking and FASD and reduce drinking and driving – are key public health goals and embodiments of human rights principles: protection and safety of individuals at every stage of life.

Aware.org’s initiatives aim to empower individuals and organisations with knowledge and resources to be part of the harm-reduction movement as they fulfil their roles in life. By taking these steps, South Africa can build upon its human rights legacy by ensuring a future where all citizens, from the youngest to the oldest, can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Image: Altus Sport “No to alcohol” campaign, Thulani Primary School, Zola, Soweto 2023