The United States has recently deported five migrants convicted of violent crimes to the African nation of Eswatini. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, this group included nationals from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen. The deportation took place after their countries of origin refused to receive them, citing the seriousness and brutality of their crimes—among them, child rape and murder. The arrival of the deportees in Eswatini marks the second instance where the U.S., under the Trump administration, has deported individuals to a third country that is not their country of origin, following a recent Supreme Court decision permitting these types of removals without the opportunity for migrants to contest potential harm or mistreatment in the recipient country[1][3][5].
Eswatini authorities have not yet commented on any formal agreement to accept these individuals, nor is it clear how the country will manage them. The Trump administration stated its intention to pursue further agreements with African countries to take migrants rejected by their home nations. Eswatini, ruled by King Mswati III, is often highlighted as Africa’s last absolute monarchy and faces criticism for its harsh suppression of political dissent and civic freedoms[5].
On the domestic front, social and political stability in Eswatini is expected to remain relatively intact through 2025. Analysts suggest that potential for mass protests remains low due to the weakened opposition and restricted democratic space. The ruling monarch’s authority faces little direct challenge, and although structural issues such as high social inequality and lack of democratic progress persist, widespread unrest is not likely in the near term. The risk of social instability is further dampened by recent incidents perceived to undermine the momentum of pro-democracy groups, such as an alleged poisoning of an exiled opposition leader and recent convictions of activists[2].
Regarding economic development, the African Development Bank has announced the approval of Eswatini’s new Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for 2025-2030. This plan aims to transform the nation’s economy by investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and promoting competitiveness, particularly through private sector development. Priority sectors identified in the strategy include transport, energy, water, and sanitation, with the overarching goal of diversifying the economy and overcoming the country’s persistent structural challenges[6].
References
- [1] Trump admin. deports migrants to Eswatini – UPI.com
- [2] Social Stability In Eswatini To Persist In 2025
- [3] US deports criminals to Eswatini after home countries reject them
- [5] The US sends third-country deportees to the small African kingdom …
- [6] African Development Bank approves new country strategy …