EU Ambassador to Lesotho Urges Clear Timelines to Accelerate National Reforms

The new European Union (EU) Ambassador to Lesotho, Mette Sunnergren, has called for clear timelines and benchmarks to fast-track the country’s long-delayed national reforms process. Ambassador Sunnergren, who assumed office late last year, replaced Paula Amadei and brings extensive diplomatic experience from her postings in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Zimbabwe.

The national reforms process, initiated by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in 2016 and partly funded by the EU, aims to promote political stability and economic development in Lesotho. However, civic society critics argue that progress has often been stalled by partisan interests, with politicians exploiting the process for short-term gains instead of addressing deep-rooted governance challenges.

One of the latest obstacles is the Constitutional Court challenge to the Tenth Amendment passed in August 2025. Civic society groups contend that the amendment process was flawed, delaying implementation and contributing to uncertainty around the reforms.

In an exclusive interview with the Lesotho Times, Ambassador Sunnergren emphasized that enhanced stakeholder dialogue, combined with clear timelines and implementation benchmarks, is critical to completing the reforms process. She stressed that the reforms must transcend party politics and be driven by strong political will to ensure national progress.

Ambassador Sunnergren highlighted that good governance, transparency, and accountability are essential for economic growth and job creation. She noted that a predictable legal and regulatory framework, free from corruption, is necessary to attract investors and provide hope for the youth. The reforms process, she said, is central to establishing this foundation and strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in Lesotho.

The EU continues to support Lesotho beyond reforms, funding initiatives in the judiciary, human rights, youth empowerment, water, and renewable energy. Ambassador Sunnergren pointed out that these programmes deliver tangible benefits, such as improved access to potable water, electricity for households and businesses, enhanced hygiene in schools and clinics, and greater opportunities for youth to demand accountability.

Tourism and trade also feature prominently in the Ambassador’s priorities. She praised Lesotho’s visa-free entry for European visitors and suggested targeted campaigns to increase tourist inflows. She also highlighted the potential for European investment in agriculture, noting opportunities in high-quality herbs, potatoes, and other crops suited to Lesotho’s climate.

During her tenure, Ambassador Sunnergren aims to maintain strong relations with the government, civil society, and the private sector, while promoting EU-Lesotho cooperation in governance, economic development, and social progress. She expressed a particular interest in combating gender-based violence and supporting sustainable climate initiatives, including renewable energy and water management.

Ambassador Sunnergren’s call for structured timelines and benchmarks is a pivotal step toward completing Lesotho’s reforms, fostering political stability, and creating an environment conducive to economic growth, investment, and social development.