The European Union has reiterated support for human rights and civic space initiatives in Eswatini during a workshop held in Pigg’s Peak from 4 to 6 September 2026.
The Strategic Litigation, Human Rights Defence and Civic Space Workshop was organised by the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) under the Lilungelo Lakho Project.
articipants included the EU, legal practitioners, human rights defenders, civil society organisations, media practitioners, student lawyers and community justice actors. 
José Becerra, Chargé d’Affaires at the EU Delegation to Eswatini, addressed the workshop.
Becerra said the EU’s support is focused on building a collaborative ecosystem in which civil society, independent institutions, media and other partners can work together to safeguard citizens’ rights.
He stated the EU’s commitment to supporting local voices, strengthening institutional frameworks, promoting ethical journalism and advancing the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Becerra also noted that the workshop takes place as the EU and Eswatini mark 50 years of partnership.
He said the EU remains committed to working with the people and institutions of Eswatini to foster an enabling environment where human rights are protected and meaningful dialogue and collaboration can thrive.
According to SALC, the workshop was convened to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders. It was also intended to explore practical approaches to defending human rights, protecting civic space and advancing strategic litigation in Eswatini.
Strategic litigation was listed as a central focus. Discussions included the use of court processes to address systemic issues, methods of documenting violations, and approaches to building cases that can result in legal and policy change.
Student lawyers participated to expand capacity in public interest litigation. Community justice actors participated to link national legal strategies with issues raised at community level.
Media practitioners attended sessions on ethical reporting of human rights issues, journalist safety and the role of media in monitoring institutions and informing the public.
The workshop was held under the Lilungelo Lakho Project, implemented by the Southern Africa Litigation Centre.
The project aims to strengthen the capacity of local actors to litigate, advocate and monitor human rights issues in line with regional and international standards.
SALC stated that the cross-sector composition of participants was intended to build working relationships between lawyers, journalists, students and community actors for coordinated response when rights are threatened.
Over the three days, four areas were addressed. Firstly, partners focused on collaboration where they were strengthening coordination between civil society, independent institutions and media in responding to human rights concerns.
Secondly, they tapped into litigation strategies where they focused on case selection, evidence gathering and the use of regional mechanisms.
Moreover, civic space, measures to enable public participation, advocacy and freedom of expression.
Lastly, capacity building, mentorship and resource needs for young lawyers and community paralegals.
SALC said follow-up activities under the Lilungelo Lakho Project will include further training, mentorship for student lawyers and support for strategic litigation cases.
The EU stated it will continue working with government, civil society and other partners in Eswatini to support an environment where rights are respected and dialogue is maintained.
