Story perspectives

U.S. Funds Controversial Deportations of Migrants to Eswatini

10/8/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ten more migrants were deported to Eswatini, after a prior group of five.
Eswatini's government says deportees are held in a maximum-security facility, with ongoing legal challenges over detention.
The United States will provide $5.1 million for up to 160 deportees, drawing concerns from Human Rights Watch.
Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona facilitates flights to Africa for deportation efforts.

History

Historical Context

Eswatini, Africa's last absolute monarchy, has faced ongoing human rights criticisms since political parties were banned in 1973. A 2011 Human Rights Watch report highlighted severe governance issues, including arbitrary arrests and torture. In 2018, international scrutiny intensified over deportation practices, with over 200 individuals detained under harsh conditions, reflecting a persistent conflict between national security and human rights obligations.

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Story summary

Ten more migrants were deported to Eswatini, after a prior group of five.
Eswatini's government says deportees are held in a maximum-security facility, with ongoing legal challenges over detention.
The United States will provide $5.1 million for up to 160 deportees, drawing concerns from Human Rights Watch.
Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona facilitates flights to Africa for deportation efforts.

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