Eswatini remains an absolute monarchy where the enabling environment for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is highly restricted and marked by systemic repression of civic freedoms. The political and legal framework does not allow meaningful public participation, and civic space is tightly controlled by the state. CSOs operate under constant scrutiny, with limited room to engage in governance or policy dialogue.

The Suppression of Terrorism Act and the Public Order Act are frequently used to criminalise dissent and restrict peaceful assembly. Human rights defenders, trade union leaders and pro-democracy activists face surveillance, harassment, arbitrary arrests and, in some cases, excessive use of force by security forces. The violent suppression of pro-democracy protests in 2021 and 2022 remains a stark reminder of the risks faced by civil society actors.

Eswatini does not have a dedicated legal framework regulating CSOs, contributing to legal uncertainty and potential state interference. Registration processes can be opaque and selectively enforced, often disadvantaging organisations seen as critical of the government.

Access to funding remains a key challenge, as CSOs rely almost entirely on international donors, with no domestic public funding or institutional support. Organisations working on human rights, governance or LGBTIQ+ issues are especially vulnerable.

Despite these constraints, youth-led and grassroots initiatives continue to use digital platforms for mobilisation and advocacy, although internet freedom remains threatened by vague cybersecurity laws.