Solidarity for labour and human rights in Eswatini

Eswatini, the sole African nation governed by an absolute monarch, has drawn deep concern from the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI), International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), ITUC-Africa, and other global unions due to the alarming deterioration of its human and trade union rights situation. This disturbing trend includes the killing of Thulani Maseko, a prominent advocate for human and trade union rights, in January 2023. His murder reportedly sparked widespread condemnation from many notable organisations, including the UN Human Rights office, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and global unions.

Trade unions in Eswatini, aligned with the broader Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF), are advocating for the establishment of a democratic state that respects the rights of its citizens and labour unions. In response to the persistent challenges faced by the country and its workers, ITUC and ITUC-Africa, in collaboration with the Trade Union Congress of Eswatini (TUCOSWA), organised an online solidarity meeting on Eswatini, held on 18 October. The event was participated by 60 trade union leaders, and civil society organisations from across Africa, including BWI Regional Representative Crecentia Mofokeng.

During the gathering, participants received a comprehensive briefing from the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) regarding challenges faced by unionists, as well as the prevailing political, social, and economic landscape in Eswatini. This update encompassed recent developments and critical issues affecting the country. In a demonstration of unwavering support and solidarity, Crecentia Mofokeng extended heartfelt commitments on behalf of BWI and other Global Union  Federations (GUFs) in Africa to TUCOSWA and the broader social movement, standing shoulder to shoulder with the workers and people of Eswatini in their struggle.