Pope Francis calls for an end to violence in Eswatini

Pope Francis called on the people of Eswatini – a small southern African state landlocked between South Africa and Mozambique – to make a “common effort for dialogue and reconciliation” during the Angelus address of July 4.

An absolute monarchy ruled by King Mswati III, Eswatini is a former British colony that became independent in 1968. Formerly known as Swaziland, this nation has just over a million inhabitants who live in great poverty.

For several weeks, demonstrations organized by young people in the country have resulted in significant violence and even deaths. Protesters are challenging the lavish lifestyle the royal family indulges in when the rest of the country lives in poverty.

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