THE INTERNATIONAL RESPONSE TO ESWATINI’S HUMAN RIGHTS CRISIS: WORDS WITHOUT ACTION

As Eswatini’s political and human rights crisis continues into 2023, the international community’s response remains a point of contention. While human rights organizations and some governments have issued statements condemning the monarchy’s repression, tangible actions to hold the regime accountable have been scarce. The gap between rhetoric and action is glaring, leaving Eswatini’s pro-democracy movement to navigate its fight for freedom largely on its own.

The events of the past two years have painted a grim picture of Eswatini under King Mswati III’s rule. From the deadly crackdowns on the 2021 protests to the arbitrary detention of activists and political leaders, the monarchy has shown little regard for human rights. Despite this, regional bodies like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have failed to take decisive action. While SADC has called for dialogue and sent mediators to the country, these efforts have lacked urgency and impact. The regime’s continued refusal to engage in meaningful discussions underscores the ineffectiveness of these initiatives.

Global human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have played a crucial role in documenting abuses and raising awareness. Their reports have shed light on the systemic violence and repression faced by activists, labor unions, and ordinary citizens. However, the international pressure generated by these efforts has yet to translate into meaningful consequences for the monarchy.

Western governments, often vocal on human rights issues, have also fallen short in their response to Eswatini’s crisis. While some countries have expressed concern and urged reform, concrete measures such as sanctions, travel bans, or freezing assets of those responsible for abuses remain limited. This lack of decisive action has allowed the regime to continue its oppressive practices with little fear of international repercussions.

The failure to act has broader implications for the region. By allowing Eswatini’s monarchy to operate with impunity, the international community risks setting a precedent that emboldens other authoritarian regimes. The silence or inaction of influential states sends a message that human rights violations in smaller or less strategically significant nations may not warrant the same level of attention or intervention.

Despite these challenges, the international response has not been entirely devoid of impact. The global attention brought to Eswatini’s struggles has provided some protection for activists, as the regime is aware of the scrutiny it faces. Diaspora communities and advocacy groups have leveraged this attention to amplify the voices of those on the ground, ensuring that Eswatini’s fight for democracy remains on the global agenda.

Moving forward, the international community must bridge the gap between words and actions. Targeted sanctions against individuals responsible for human rights abuses, including members of the security forces and the monarchy’s inner circle, could pressure the regime to change course. Support for independent investigations into abuses, as well as funding for grassroots movements and civil society organizations, would strengthen the push for accountability and reform.

The people of Eswatini deserve more than statements of solidarity—they need tangible support. The fight for democracy in Eswatini is not just a national struggle; it is a fight for the values of justice, equality, and human rights that the international community claims to uphold. The world must act, not only to support the people of Eswatini but also to reaffirm its commitment to these principles.

Eswatini’s pro-democracy movement has shown extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity. Activists continue to organize, advocate, and resist, even as they face threats and violence. Their courage should inspire the international community to stand with them, not just in words but in actions that can bring about meaningful change. The time for hesitation has passed. Justice for Eswatini’s people requires the world to do more—and to do it now.