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Written question asked by Chi Onwurah (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 June 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 July 2022 (named day). It was answered by Vicky Ford (Conservative) on Monday, 4 July 2022 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Swaziland: Human Rights

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the implications for her policies of the (a) Trade Union Congress of Swaziland's complaint against the Government of Eswatini for violating conventions 87 and 89, (b) death of Mr. Sabelo Dlamini, a worker taking part in a Trade Union protest and (c) other attacks on trade unionists reported in that complaint; and what recent assessment she has made of the extent to which Swaziland meets the human rights requirements of the Commonwealth.

Answer

Following the violent confrontations in 2021, the UK remains disappointed by the lack of progress towards meaningful dialogue in Eswatini to address the restrictions on democratic and civil rights. The High Commissioner raised our concerns with His Majesty King Mswati III and senior Ministers earlier this month, and explored ways in which the UK and other international partners could facilitate constructive engagement. The Prime Minister also raised the political situation with the King at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Rwanda.

The International Labour Organisation has recently facilitated a bipartite dialogue between representatives of employers and workers to address outstanding questions of labour rights and mistreatment. This has provided a platform for constructive exchange and the High Commission is supporting efforts for further inclusive exchanges with other stakeholders.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
26764
Session
2022-23
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Human rights Swaziland
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk