Speaking at Eswatini's Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the United Kingdom acknowledged progress on human rights since the country's previous review. That earlier review followed a violent response to protesters during civil unrest, according to the statement published on 9 November 2026. The UK welcomed improved social stability and encouraged the government to adopt a proportionate approach toward protests, in line with international human rights law.

The UK said it remains concerned that levels of violence against women and girls in Eswatini are still high, and that LGBT+ people continue to face discrimination and harassment. It put forward three recommendations to the government.

First, the UK recommended decriminalising consensual same-sex sexual conduct and taking effective measures to eliminate discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, including by ensuring LGBT+ rights groups can register and operate freely. Second, it urged stronger legislation and penalties for acts of violence against women and girls, alongside greater public awareness and community engagement to help prevent and reduce its prevalence. Third, it recommended formally abolishing the death penalty, giving legal effect to Eswatini's abolitionist posture, and commuting all existing death sentences.