# The Constitutional Court is today hearing arguments challenging parts of South Africa’s Sexual Offences and Related Matters Act. The case follows a 2025 Pretoria High Court ruling that rape accused can no longer rely on a subjective belief that consent was given. Applicants, the non-profit Embrace Project, argue the decision strengthens protections for victims. The Women’s Legal Centre has joined as a friend of the court, opposing the declaration of constitutional invalidity and questioning the need for legislative changes.
ConCourt hears landmark case on consent in sexual offences