Activists detained, trade union leaders forced to flee into exile, a prominent human rights lawyer shot dead outside his house – a murder that led to condemnation from the United Nations, European Union, the UK and many human rights organisations in southern Africa.

Yet there has been little regional pressure.

SADC leaders were sharply criticised in the Human Rights Watch 2023 report, with claims that they have failed to address the abuse of civilians in Eswatini.

South Africa is best placed to press for change.

Over 60% of Eswatin’s exports go to South Africa and over 80% of its imports come from there, according to the World Bank.

South African security companies also reportedly train its security apparatus.

Aljazeera.