Eswatini remains Africa’s last absolute monarchy, with King Mswati III and Queen Mother Ntombi exercising decisive authority over all branches of government. Political parties are excluded from elections, and political participation is tightly restricted. During the period under review, repression intensified, with increasing reports of arbitrary detention, torture and lengthy prison sentences for opposition figures. The space for civil society and protest has continued to shrink, while security forces respond to demonstrations with growing brutality.
Economic development remains highly uneven. Most of the population lives in poverty, while the royal family’s extensive economic interests and unpredictable political interventions distort market conditions. Climate change has further aggravated socioeconomic pressures through droughts, water scarcity and soil degradation.
Governance is characterized by limited reform capacity and weak accountability. The Sibaya dialogue held in October 2023 failed to provide an inclusive platform for political change. Regional and international engagement remains limited, reducing external leverage for democratic reform.
