Eswatini
In early 2026, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) remains Africa's last absolute monarchy. The human rights landscape is defined by the continued consolidation of power by King Mswati III, the use of the judiciary to silence pro-democracy voices, and a controversial new role as a destination for third-country deportees.
1. Political Repression and Judicial Weaponization
Following the 2021 pro-democracy protests, the government has moved from physical crackdowns to a "legalized" form of repression.
Sentencing of MPs: In 2024 and 2025, former MPs Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube—who advocated for a constitutional monarchy—were sentenced to 25 and 18 years respectively. As of early 2026, they remain in maximum-security detention despite international calls for their pardon.
Revitalization of the Sedition Act: In late 2024, the Supreme Court revitalized the Sedition and Subversive Activities Act, a colonial-era law. In early 2026, authorities are actively using this to arrest activists for minor criticisms, such as wearing pro-democracy T-shirts or making "disloyal" statements at funerals.
Impunity for Maseko’s Murder: Three years after the January 2023 assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko, there has been no transparent investigation. Rights groups in February 2026 continue to accuse the state of shielding the perpetrators.
2. The US "Deportation Deal" Controversy
Eswatini has recently entered into a secretive agreement with the United States that has sparked a constitutional crisis.
Deportee Influx: Under a deal struck with the Trump administration, Eswatini agreed to accept third-country deportees (non-Swati nationals). On February 3, 2026, the Eswatini High Court dismissed a lawsuit by human rights lawyers seeking to block the deal, ruling the activists lacked "direct interest."
Solitary Confinement: At least 15 deportees are currently being held in solitary confinement in Eswatini's maximum-security prisons. Lawyers report they have been denied access to these individuals, whose legal status and conditions remain unknown.
Capacity for Cash: Documents revealed in late 2025 show the kingdom received over $5 million to "manage" these deportees, a move critics call "human trafficking facilitated by the state."
3. LGBTQ+ Rights and Education
While many neighbors are moving toward decriminalization, Eswatini has seen a sharp regression in early 2026.
Ministerial Expulsion Threats: On February 3, 2026, Education Minister Owen Nxumalo publicly threatened to personally visit schools and instruct principals to expel LGBTQ+ students.
Institutional Bullying: Rights groups like Eswatini Sexual and Gender Minorities (ESGM) have warned that these comments have greenlit a wave of bullying and mental health crises among youth.
Registration Denied: Despite a 2023 court order to reconsider, the government continues to block the registration of LGBTQ+ NGOs, effectively criminalizing their advocacy.
4. Freedom of Expression and "Silent Anxiety"
The climate for the press and civil society is characterized by what local analysts call "suffocating silence."
Targeting Exiled Media: The government continues to pursue legal action in South African courts against exiled editor Zweli Martin Dlamini and his outlet, Swaziland News, attempting to label them "terrorist entities" for reporting on royal corruption.
Self-Censorship: In early 2026, a "psychology of silence" has taken root. Public discourse on governance is now conducted almost exclusively in "whispers or private spaces" due to a pervasive fear of state surveillance.
5. Economic Despair and Youth Unemployment
Underneath the political tension lies a deepening social crisis driven by extreme inequality.
Youth Crisis: Youth unemployment is estimated at a record 58.2% in early 2026. This "lost generation" of graduates is increasingly disillusioned, fueling the underlying social unrest that the monarchy attempts to manage through traditional ceremonies like the Incwala.
Healthcare Shortages: Public health facilities are currently facing a "decades-long" shortage of essential drugs. In rural areas, the healthcare system has largely collapsed, leaving mothers and children without basic prenatal or emergency care.