Debate: The situation of human rights defenders in Eswatini, notably the murder of Thulani Maseko
Date: WEDNESDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 2023
Speaker: Janez Lenarčič
Language: EN

The European Union has publicly and strongly condemned this despicable act and looks forward to the results of the investigation already launched by the authorities. A speedy, effective, transparent and independent investigation is of paramount importance.  The Eswatini authorities need to ensure the safety of all its citizens, including political activists and human rights defenders. The civic space must be protected.  This tragic loss comes in a row of killings, arson attacks and other violent acts which have destabilised the country over the past months. It is high time that a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue is launched on terms facilitated by the Southern African Development Community towards national reconciliation, respect for human rights and the rule of law, and ultimately lasting peace.  The European Union has repeatedly raised its strong concerns about the situation in the country, through constant engagement, including with His Majesty King Mswati III, with the Eswatini Government and with the Southern African Development Community.  The European Union raises the issue of Eswatini systematically in all political dialogues with the Southern African Development Community member states. Moreover, High Representative Borrell discussed the situation in the country during his recent visit to South Africa and Botswana. The European Union supports the Southern African Development Community efforts and equally understands an inclusive national dialogue is a peacebuilding tool. The European Union welcomed the communiqué of the extraordinary Southern African Development Community Troika Summit two weeks ago, urging the government of Eswatini to urgently initiate the process of the national dialogue and urging all stakeholders in the Kingdom of Eswatini to remain calm and participate peacefully in the national dialogue.  The protracted incarceration and the repeated denial of bail of two members of the Eswatini Parliament is also a cause of concern. Their right to a fair trial and due process needs to be respected, in line with Eswatini’s national and international obligations.  With regard to the implementation of the Multiannual Indicative Programme under NDICI-Global Europe that was mentioned in this debate, I would like to recall that following the violence in 2021, it was already decided then that future EU programmes will be designed to directly benefit people at the grassroots level, supporting notably non-governmental organisations. The objective is to boost socioeconomic rights that should go hand in hand with the civil and political rights empowerment of the citizens and vulnerable groups.  We shall keep monitoring developments in Eswatini, calling on the authorities to fully respect fundamental rights enshrined in their constitution, laws and in international and regional conventions to which they have freely assigned to. We will insist on the need to advance democracy, the rule of law and respect of human rights for all. This is crucial for the people of Eswatini.