Eswatini Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
Eswatini's net migration was -5,775 in 2025, ranked 77th globally. This represents a 14.5% increase from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
Eswatini's net migration stood at -5,775 in 2025, a rise of +979 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach -7,155 by 2026. Eswatini ranked 77th globally.
Eswatini's net migration has fluctuated significantly over the past 66 years. The country's all-time peak in net migration occurred in 1988, with 14,879 individuals arriving, reflecting a period of relative stability and economic growth. Conversely, the all-time trough was recorded in 1994, with a substantial -48,259 net outflow, likely resulting from economic and social pressures. In recent years, the country's net migration has become increasingly negative, with the latest figure standing at -5,775 individuals in 2025, ranking 77th globally. This mirrors the experiences of peer countries such as Eritrea, which has also experienced a negative net migration. The current trend suggests that Eswatini's population is becoming increasingly stationary, with ongoing economic and social challenges potentially exacerbating this trend. A significant improvement in economic conditions or investment in human capital could alter this trajectory, potentially leading to a reversal of the negative net migration.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | -7,409 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | -7,282 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | -7,155 | - | - |
| 2025 | -5,775 | +979 | #77 |
| 2024 | -6,754 | +1,795 | #72 |
| 2023 | -8,549 | +0 | #55 |
| 2022 | -8,549 | −4,307 | #51 |
| 2021 | -4,242 | +0 | #74 |
| 2020 | -4,242 | +4,197 | #69 |
| 2019 | -8,439 | +107 | #67 |
| 2018 | -8,546 | +112 | #64 |
| 2017 | -8,658 | +3,823 | #65 |
| 2016 | -12,481 | +101 | #52 |
| 2015 | -12,582 | +142 | #66 |
| 2014 | -12,724 | −60 | #63 |
| 2013 | -12,664 | −370 | #61 |
| 2012 | -12,294 | −698 | #64 |
| 2011 | -11,596 | −262 | #68 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Eswatini matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 2012. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Eswatini's net migration was -5,775 in 2025. Ranked 77th globally. This represents a 14.5% increase from the previous year.
Eswatini's net migration peaked at 14,879 in 1988.
The lowest net migration in Eswatini was -48,259 in 1994.
Eswatini ranks 77th globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
Eswatini's net migration is projected to reach -7,155 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of Eswatini in 2025 was -5,775. This ranks 77th in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_eswatini_net-migration,
title = {Eswatini Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/eswatini/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}