WHY INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY IS IMPORTANT FOR STRUGGLE: EXPERIENCES FROM USA
EmaSwati For Change (EFC) came into being in 2021 following the deadliest massacre in modern Swazi history.
Fast forward two and a half years later, EFC finds itself navigating the intricate world of diaspora activism, advocating the Swazi cause in global discussions on human rights and governance. The path has been a steep learning curve, with opportunities for meaningful conversations often hard to come by.
Yet, the doors that have opened have significantly moulded our perspectives. The aftermath of the 2021 uprising witnessed an upsurge in activism, Swazis at home and abroad taking to the streets, presenting petitions, and engaging in letter-writing campaigns. Some pursued legal avenues against human rights violations, while others sought to spark public discourse.
Over time, the initial enthusiasm waned, leaving the democratic movement divided. Frontline activists faced targeted attacks, forcing many into exile. As the government returned to business as usual, the necessity for global support became increasingly evident.
Author Saneliswa Magagula attending the Forge conference in the USA
EFC stands firm in acknowledging the sacrifices of our martyrs, exiled or imprisoned activists, seeing global solidarity as a renewal of hope and resilience. The knowledge that numerous individuals and groups worldwide stand in unity fortifies our determination to press on despite adversities.
In our recent participation at the #FORGE2023 conference, we thought critically about the time horizons within which we plan and execute tasks. Reflecting on historical precedents, the Swazi struggle has witnessed various waves, notably 2021, which emerged as a pivotal period.
Perhaps a significant setback though, was the assertion that the events of 2021 overshadow decades-long activism. Amongst other factors, this was a polarizing issue, highlighting a critical need for proactive political education, transcending biased narratives and providing a comprehensive understanding of the Swazi struggle.
Despite progress and setbacks in our lengthy struggle, the regime's tactics remain alarmingly constant, mirroring those used by authoritarian regimes worldwide. Our proactive stance in staying informed is pivotal, shifting from reactionary responses to strategic activism.
Leveraging the collective historical insights of our network of democracy and human rights defenders, EmaSwati For Change commits to preserving our ongoing narrative. Documenting our unfolding history lays the groundwork for informed activism and shapes present and future strategies.
Swazis in the USA carrying placards after picketing in the USA following the massacre in 2021
The significance of documenting our journey and projecting it onto global platforms cannot be overstated. We are duty bound to ensure Swaziland's prominence and contribution to global frameworks against injustices. Unified global support amplifies our advocacy.
When we lobby democratic nations to exert pressure on the Eswatini government to engage in a mediated national dialogue, our voices must be heard because we are part of the conversation and contributing to global justice solutions.
The diaspora's unique position allows us to forge collaborative alliances, ensuring representation in the international community that unites in condemnation of injustices. This collective pressure fosters accountability, demanding respect for democratic principles and human rights standards.
It also strengthens the case for targeted sanctions against perpetrators of human rights violations. The #FORGE2023 experience affirmed in EmaSwati For Change a commitment to a solutions-focused approach to activism.
Recognizing the tendency to dwell on issues without actively engaging in ideas and actions, FORGE is a call for a paradigm shift. Urgency is identified as a crucial element, framing activism in a way that propels the movement forward on a day-to-day basis.
The first protest in New York organised by Swazis in the diaspora which ultimately led to the formation of Emaswati for Change in the USA.
Within our organizations, engaging in productive dialogues is crucial, translating into tangible outcomes with heightened urgency. It is astonishing how unproductive activist spaces can become hence the necessity for a culture where organizational badges reflect tangible accomplishments.
The struggle requires activists averse to complacency, given the voluntary nature of most commitments. We need proactive activists who go beyond the norm. Taking ourselves seriously is key to truly leveraging global support.
From strategic exchanges to practical assistance and resource mobilization, the international community's solidarity can empower us to continue our advocacy efforts. Collaborating with like-minded organizations and individuals across the globe enables us to access knowledge, opportunities, expertise, and tools that strengthen our campaigns and initiatives.
FORGE 2023 Reflection EmaSwati For Change is proud to have led a #FORGE2023 session and actively engaged in the theme of democratic renewal. We shared insights gained since our inception and delved into emerging solutions, growth areas, and collaboration possibilities.
The Forge 2023 Conference in the USA.
The broader theme encompassed topics resonating strongly with Swaziland: safeguarding democracy defenders, grassroots legal translation, and democratizing technology.
Addressing women's citizenship rights emerged as an urgent concern, deeply resonating with our struggle in Eswatini, where women face hurdles in transferring citizenship to their children. A critical dialogue emerged, focusing on countering propaganda in Swaziland's socio-political landscape. International solidarity was highlighted as pivotal, aiming to create networks supporting activists and addressing broader issues, detailed on the FORGE website.
For EmaSwati For Change, our dedication to global solidarity stands unwavering. It acts as our beacon of hope and strength, propelling transformative change. This commitment transcends borders, ideologies, and backgrounds, uniting us in the shared pursuit of justice, democracy, and human rights.