President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for greater efforts to ensure that all people have equal access to the justice system, regardless of their social or economic circumstances.
Ramaphosa made the remarks while addressing the Access to Justice International Conference at Sun City in the North West, which brought together stakeholders from the legal fraternity, including representatives from the United Nations.
He said access to justice should extend beyond the ability to approach a court, emphasising that people must also understand their rights and have the means to challenge abuses of power.
Ramaphosa said a justice system should not only be accessible to the public but must also work in their interests.
He identified poverty as one of the biggest barriers to accessing justice, saying it limits people's choices, weakens their bargaining power and leaves them vulnerable to exploitation.
The President said financial constraints often prevent individuals from challenging unlawful decisions, confronting abusive employers or seeking compensation for injustices they have experienced.
He warned that this could result in a situation where equality before the law exists in principle, but people remain unequal in their ability to exercise their legal rights.