Wed. Jul 23rd, 2025

The African kingdom of Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, has been thrust into the international spotlight after the US deported 5 individuals to the country. Eswatini is a small, landlocked nation located in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. With a population of approximately 1.3 million people, Eswatini is one of the smallest countries in Africa. The kingdom has a unique history, having been a British protectorate from 1894 to 1968, before gaining independence. The country’s name was officially changed from Swaziland to Eswatini in 2018, meaning ‘land of the Swazi people’ in the Swati language. Eswatini is an absolute monarchy, with the king serving as the head of state and government. The current king, Mswati III, has been in power since 1986 and has been criticized for his authoritarian rule and human rights record. The country has a diverse culture, with a mix of traditional and modern practices. The official languages are Swati and English, and the majority of the population practices Christianity. Eswatini is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with a range of mountains, forests, and wildlife reserves. The country has a growing economy, with a focus on agriculture, mining, and tourism. However, Eswatini also faces significant challenges, including a high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate and limited access to education and healthcare. The US deportation of 5 individuals to Eswatini has raised concerns about the country’s human rights record and the treatment of deportees. The deportees, who were not identified, were reportedly sent to Eswatini on a chartered flight. The move has sparked criticism from human rights groups, who argue that the US has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of deportees. Eswatini has a history of human rights abuses, including restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly, and the use of torture and arbitrary detention. The country has also been criticized for its treatment of women and the LGBTQ+ community. Despite these challenges, Eswatini remains a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people. The country is also a member of the United Nations and the African Union, and has diplomatic relations with countries around the world. In recent years, Eswatini has made efforts to improve its human rights record, including the establishment of a human rights commission and the passage of laws to protect women and children. However, much work remains to be done to address the country’s significant human rights challenges.

Source