For every right that a person has there is usually a responsibility that is connected to that right. For example, you have a right to freedom of expression, but a responsibility not to tell deliberate lies about someone else. There is a general responsibility to respect and be tolerant of other peoples’ rights, for example you enjoy the right to religious freedom and all beliefs are respected. You also have the responsibility to respect others’ beliefs, rights and choices. So even if your faith condemns homosexuality, you are not allowed to discriminate against gay people.

The government also has responsibilities in terms of rights. These are examples of some rights and responsibilities:

Right to freedom and security of the person. You have a responsibility not to abuse your partner or children in the privacy of your home. The government has a duty to ban the use of torture to get information from people.

No slavery or forced labour. You have a responsibility not to allow your children to go to work when they are very young. The government has a responsibility to pass and monitor a law that sets a minimum age for people who are working. The government has to act against human trafficking.

Freedom of movement and residence. People are free to move between provinces and cities. You have a responsibility to accept anyone who comes and lives next door to you as your neighbour. The government has a responsibility to issue passports and identity documents to all citizens who apply.

Right to education. All children have a right to education. You have a responsibility to send all your children to school. The government has a responsibility to build enough schools and provide enough teachers so that everyone can go to school and get a proper education.