Empirical Findings on Filicide Offenses in eSwatini

Abstract

The killing of a child by their parent(s), known as filicide, is an infrequent form of fatal violence against children. Filicide occurs across cultures but remains under-researched in Africa, specifically in eSwatini, due to limited data collection, standardization, and accessibility. Given the prevalence of parental involvement in child fatalities, it is crucial to engage with these parents to understand the circumstances contributing to these murders and to inform prevention efforts. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 parents incarcerated for filicide (involving 18 victims), this study explores the etiological factors associated with filicides. Thematic analysis reveals five themes: (i) childhood history; (ii) financial constraints; (iii) partner-related problems; (iv) mental health issues; and (v) sociocultural factors. The rural location served as a critical backdrop that amplified risk and eliminated potential protective interventions. This study highlights that filicide in eSwatini arises from the interaction of sociocultural influences, economic vulnerability, and insufficient mental health services, creating environments where filicide becomes a desperate response to overwhelming circumstances. To reduce filicide, policy reforms regarding reproductive rights, challenging patriarchal beliefs, establishing economic empowerment programs for vulnerable young parents, expanding mental health services to rural areas, and integrating these services with traditional healing practices are necessary. By addressing these systemic factors rather than viewing filicide as an individual issue, eSwatini can foster safe and protective environments for children while upholding the cultural values of family and community well-being.

Keywords: corrections, family murder, violence against children, socio-cultural, rural areas

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