Penology in Eswatini
The New Humanitarian | Children still ...
Penology in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) has been a subject of concern due to longstanding issues related to prison conditions, human rights abuses, and overcrowding. Despite recent efforts to reform the correctional system, significant challenges persist.
Overcrowding and Inadequate Facilities
Eswatini's prison system has faced chronic overcrowding, with the number of inmates exceeding the facilities' capacity. In 2016, the prison population was reported to be 3,500, surpassing the system's capacity by 662 inmates. This overcrowding has led to poor living conditions, including inadequate sanitation, lighting, and medical care. Pretrial detainees often depend on family members for food, as authorities provide only basic provisions. Some facilities are old and dilapidated, while others, such as the women's prison, are newer and better maintained. (Refworld, Refworld)
Human Rights Concerns
Reports have highlighted various human rights abuses within Eswatini's prisons. Inmates have reported physical assaults, strip searches, and inadequate access to medical care. Juvenile prisoners, in particular, have faced inhuman and degrading treatment, including physical assault and strip searches. Political prisoners have been isolated from the general population and denied recreational opportunities. (Refworld, Refworld)
In 2023, former Member of Parliament Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, who had been arbitrarily detained for nearly two years, was reportedly beaten by correctional services officers. Amnesty International called for a prompt, thorough, and independent investigation into the attack and for Mabuza to be granted immediate access to medical care, family, and legal representation. (Amnesty International)
Efforts at Reform
In 2017, Eswatini enacted the Correctional Services Act No. 13, which introduced changes aimed at treating offenders humanely and implementing alternative sentencing methods. The government has also committed to protecting human rights, as evidenced by training programs for correctional officers on human rights protection. These initiatives are part of Eswatini's commitment to international human rights instruments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. (UNDP)
Prison Labour and Rehabilitation
The Eswatini Correctional Services Department has stated that all labour schemes in correctional facilities are solely for rehabilitation purposes and do not violate calls for the abolition of forced prison labour. The department emphasizes that such labour is non-afflictive and aims to prepare offenders for employment after release. Many inmates reportedly apply for such employment, which is allocated based on the offender's interests and within the limits of discipline. (Business & Human Rights Resource Centre)
Conclusion
While Eswatini has made some strides toward reforming its correctional system, significant challenges remain. Overcrowding, human rights abuses, and inadequate facilities continue to undermine the effectiveness of the prison system. Ongoing efforts to improve conditions and ensure the humane treatment of inmates are essential for aligning Eswatini's prison system with international human rights standards.
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