Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 July 2021
206. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagement he has had with his counterparts in relation to the use of State-sanctioned violence against peaceful pro-democracy protesters in Eswatini; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36940/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am deeply concerned by the recent tensions and civil unrest in Eswatini, and at reports of the deaths of civilians and the destruction of property. It is vital that all sides take immediate action to deescalate the current situation, and to allow for dialogue to take place.
The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Citizens’ rights to demonstrate and to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly must be respected and protected, and must not be suppressed by force. The killing of civilians, the use of violence and the destruction of property are unacceptable and must be investigated thoroughly and transparently, with perpetrators prosecuted according to the law.
I welcome the joint statements issued on 1 and 4 July by the Missions of the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States in Eswatini, and I echo their calls for inclusive dialogue, respect for civil liberties, and respect for the rule of law. I also welcome the efforts of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to facilitate dialogue to resolve the situation peacefully.
Ireland’s Ambassador to Eswatini, based in Mozambique, is in regular communication with the European Union (EU) Delegation and EU counterparts in Eswatini. In June 2021, Ireland, together with the EU Delegation and Member States, participated in a formal dialogue with the Government of Eswatini, in which the EU raised concerns regarding democratic space and human rights in Eswatini.
Ireland will continue to follow up and engage on these issues through the EU Delegation in Eswatini, and to monitor this situation closely.
