UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Udvalget for Udlændinge- og Integrationspolitik 2014-15 (1. samling)
UUI Alm.del Bilag 32
Offentligt

5/2014

ENG

Eritrea

–

Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration,

National Service and the Possibility of Return

Country of Origin Information for Use in the Asylum

Determination Process

Report from the

Da ish I

igratio Service’s fact fi di g

issio

s to Ethiopia and Eritrea

August and October 2014

Copenhagen, November 2014

Danish Immigration Service

Ryesgade 53

2100 Copenhagen Ø

Phone: 00 45 35 36 66 00

Web: www.newtodenmark.dk

E-mail: [email protected]

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Content

1. Background and methodology ............................................................................................................ 3

1.1 Purpose of mission .................................................................................................................................. 3

1.2 Methodology ........................................................................................................................................... 3

2. Brief country introduction .................................................................................................................. 5

2.1 Freedom of movement ............................................................................................................................ 5

2.2 Observations by the delegation .............................................................................................................. 6

3. Drivers and root causes of emigration from Eritrea ............................................................................. 7

4. National Service ................................................................................................................................. 8

4.1 Background .............................................................................................................................................. 8

4.2 Transition from school to National Service: Sawa ................................................................................... 8

4.3 After Sawa: Content of the National Service ........................................................................................... 9

4.4 Duration of service ................................................................................................................................ 10

4.5 Salaries................................................................................................................................................... 11

.6 People s Militia/A

............................................................................................................................ 11

4.7 Round-ups of National Service draft evaders ........................................................................................ 12

4.8 Consequences for evasion/desertion from the National Service.......................................................... 13

4.8.1 Reprisals against family members .................................................................................................. 14

5. Return to Eritrea .............................................................................................................................. 15

5.1. Regularizing relationship with the government before returning to Eritrea ....................................... 15

5.2. Possible Penalties for illegal exit for individuals who return to Eritrea ............................................... 16

5.2.1. Are National Service evaders or deserters seen as traitors and political opponents by the

government ............................................................................................................................................. 17

5.3. Examples of returns .............................................................................................................................. 17

5.4. Recent developments ........................................................................................................................... 18

Annex A

–

Sources consulted ................................................................................................................ 21

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

1. Background and methodology

The report at hand has been produced by the Country of Origin Information unit of the Danish Immigration

Service (DIS) for use in the asylum determination process. The information included in this report was gath-

ered during a visit to London in September 2014 and fact finding missions to both Ethiopia (20-27 August

2014) and Eritrea (1-17 October 2014).

1.1 Purpose of mission

During the summer of 2014, Denmark experienced a sudden and significant increase in the number of asy-

lum seekers from Eritrea. Other European countries also experienced a similar increase. Eritrean citizens

have since constituted a substantial part of the overall number of asylum seekers in Europe.

The majority of Eritreans seeking asylum in Denmark state as reasons for leaving Eritrea the National Ser-

vice, the condition and duration thereof, and the fact that they have left Eritrea illegally. Therefore, they

fear reprisals from the Eritrean government upon return to Eritrea.

The available country of origin information relevant for the Danish caseload was published by stakeholders

with no or little direct access to Eritrea. Consequently, the hitherto available reporting on the conditions in

Eritrea to a large extend seems to be based on information obtained from sources that were not present in

Eritrea or on interviews with Eritrean refugees abroad. In addition, some of the available information ap-

pears not to be obtained recently.

Therefore, the need for more updated and first-hand description of the conditions on the ground in Eritrea

arose.

DIS thus concluded that fact finding missions to Eritrea and Ethiopia would be the preferred method for

carrying out a proper assessment and a gathering of first-hand information on these issues.

The main purpose of the mission to Ethiopia was to look into the possibility of verifying the identity of Eri-

trean asylum seekers who had resided in UNHCR camps in northern Ethiopia before leaving for Europe. In

addition, further background information about migrations patterns and the conditions in Eritrea was also

obtained.

The purpose of the mission to Eritrea was twofold. First, to gather information about Eritrea and daily life in

the country in order to assist the DIS caseworkers in verifying the nationality of persons claiming to be from

Eritrea. Second, to explore the topics of the National Service in Eritrea, the reasons why some Eritreans are

leaving the country and the possibility for Eritreans to return if they have left the country illegally.

1.2 Methodology

In order to prepare and plan the missions to Eritrea and Ethiopia, the DIS conferred with other immigration

authorities in Europe as well as Professor Gaim Kibreab, London South Bank University. The information on

relevant interlocutors as well as practical and logistical issues obtained through these contacts was useful in

the planning of the fact finding missions to both Ethiopia and Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

In Ethiopia and Eritrea, the delegation consulted representatives of Western embassies, UN agencies, in-

ternational organisations, international non-governmental organisations, local non-governmental organisa-

tions, a well-known Eritrean intellectual as well as a representative from the Eritrean government. One of

the Western embassies consulted in Asmara, Eritrea, is based in Khartoum, Sudan.

The interlocutors interviewed were identified by the delegation based on the expertise, merit and role of

each interlocutor relevant to the purpose and content of the missions. The delegation considers that to the

best of its knowledge, the consulted interlocutors represent a broad spectrum of competent sources

knowledgeable on the relevant issues in Eritrea.

Consultations with the interlocutors were held in English. All interlocutors were thoroughly informed of the

purpose of the mission and all interlocutors were explicitly informed that the resulting report would be

pu lished o DIS e site,

. ewtodenmark.dk,

and thus be available to all stakeholders in the refugee

status determination process as well as to the general public.

All interlocutors agreed to receive their statements forwarded for comments, corrections and approval.

Four interlocutors did not respond to the request for comments, corrections and final approval of their

statements despite several reminders and attempts to contact them.

The interlocutors who did not respond are: A Western embassy (E) in Eritrea; a well-known Eritrean intel-

lectual, Asmara; Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Asmara; International Organisation of Migration (IOM),

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The statements of these interlocutors are included in the report at hand as they were sent to them.

All interlocutors are referred to according to their own request on this matter. Several interlocutors re-

quired varying degrees of anonymity or indirect referencing in order not to compromise their identity and

to p ote t thei ou t ies o

organisations

o ti ued oope ation

with the Eritrean authorities.

The fact finding report at hand does not include any policy recommendations. The report is based on the

approved interview notes and other material provided by the listed interlocutors. References to available

general background information about Eritrea have been included when relevant in Chapter 2 and 4.

The report reflects the views of the interlocutors and care has been taken to present their views as accu-

atel a d t a spa e tl as possi le. All i te lo uto s state

ents are found in their full extent in Annex A of

this report.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

2. Brief country introduction

The state of Eritrea covers approximately 121,114 square kilometers and is situated at the Horn of Africa,

bordered by Ethiopia, Sudan and Djibouti. The population is estimated to be somewhere between 4-6 mil-

lion but there is great uncertainty about the figure. Asmara is the capital

A former Italian colony, Eritrea came under British administration in 1941. Following the Second World

War, Ethiopia, which historically regarded Eritrea as an integral part of its territory, intensified its claims to

sovereignty. In 1952, the United Nations resolved to establish Eritrea as an autonomous entity federated

with Ethiopia as a compromise between Ethiopian claims for sovereignty and Eritrean aspirations for inde-

pendence. However in 1962, the Ethiopian emperor, Haile Selassie, decided to annex Eritrea, triggering a

32-year armed struggle. Following Eritrean victory in 1991, the UN supervised a referendum held in 1993 at

which national independence was obtained

The Eritrean government is a highly centralized, authoritarian regime under the control of President Isaias

Af e ki. The People s F o t fo De o a a d Justi e PFDJ , headed P eside t Isaias, is the sole politi-

cal party. There have been no presidential elections in Eritrea since the President was elected by the Na-

tional Assembly in 1993

Two Western embassies (C, D) in Eritrea stated that the Eritrean government detains people for political

reasons. However, one Western embassy (C) in Eritrea explained that there is no general climate of fear to

detect in the population.

Professor Gaim Kibreab, South Bank University, London, explained that the political oppression is targeting

any kind of political opposition to the state and/or ruling party, but there is no generalized random sup-

pression against the general public.

Three Western embassies (B, C, D) in Eritrea stated that the rules and procedures in Eritrea are not applied

in a uniform manner and that some laws are unclear or not even published. There is an arbitrary nature of

the way the security apparatus and the justice system work.

2.1 Freedom of movement

Several of the consulted sources in Eritrea (Western embassies A and B; International organisation B; a

regional NGO based in Asmara) stated that Eritreans do not need a travel permit to travel inside Eritrea.

One Western embassy (D) in Eritrea specified that people who have not been demobilized nor released

from the National Service probably would need some kind of approval from their employer in order to

travel unhindered within Eritrea.

Smith-Morris, Miles. Physical and Social Geography (Eritrea), in Europa World online. London, Routledge. By subscription. Danish

Immigration Service. Retrieved 14 November 2014 from http://europaworld.com/entry/er.ge

Historical Context (Eritrea), in Europa World online. London, Routledge. By subscription. Danish Immigration Service. Retrieved 14

November 2014 from http://europaworld.com/entry/EE001000

Domestic Political Affairs (Eritrea), in Europa World online. London, Routledge. By subscription. Danish Immigration Service. Re-

trieved 14 November 2014 from http://europaworld.com/entry/EE001001

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

One Western embassy (E) in Eritrea stated that an individual encountered without an ID-card would be held

by the police for a couple of days in order to establish his or her National Service status. It was added that

the police have no computers and that access to data-bases is hampered by frequent power cuts.

International organisation (C) in Eritrea and Western embassy (C) in Eritrea explained that there are only a

few checkpoints in Eritrea.

Two Western embassies (C, D) in Eritrea described procedures at such checkpoints as informal and lenient.

One Western embassy (D) in Eritrea went on to explain that ID checks on routes between cities are con-

ducted sporadically, while the other Western embassy (C) in Eritrea further elaborated that Eritreans trav-

elling by bus are usually not checked at all and that the authorities mostly check foreigners´ documents.

To illustrate the lack of check-points, one Western embassy (B) in Eritrea explained that in January 2013

there was an attempted coup in Asmara and that the armed vehicles that were used in the coup drove 120

km from Senafe to Asmara without being stopped or attacked.

2.2 Observations by the delegation

During the mission to Eritrea the delegation of the Danish Immigration Service was granted permission to

travel outside Asmara twice, to the towns of Adi Kuala and Adi Keih, both approximately 100 km south of

Asmara and close to the Ethiopian border. On these excursions, the delegation did not experience any

checks of the travel permit which all foreigners must obtain before driving more than 25 km outside of As-

mara. The delegation only observed one visible check-point during its two week stay in Eritrea. The delega-

tion was never stopped to identify themselves.

During the stay in Asmara, the delegation was able to watch CNN and BBC at the hotel and at restaurants.

The delegation observed many people using smart phones. Internet was available at the delegations hotel,

including in the lobby, where many non-residing guests seemed to be using it. It was possible to visit West-

ern internet addresses, although occasional internet-black outs were experienced by the delegation.

The delegation observed many people at restaurants and cafés in Asmara, also in the evening.

Food and goods were available in the shops and markets that the delegation visited in Asmara, as well as

shops on the route to Adi Kuala and Adi Keih.

The delegation experienced daily power cuts. Petrol was in short supply and many petrol stations appeared

to be out of service. However, there were many cars, taxis and busses and the delegation was under the

impression that petrol was widely sold on the black market.

The bus stations in Asmara were observed to be busy with a large number of city and regional busses and

passe ge s a i i g a d depa ti g. Si ila o se atio s e e ade du i g the delegatio s e u sio s to

Adi Kuala and Adi Keih.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

3. Drivers and root causes of emigration from Eritrea

Almost all of the sources consulted in Eritrea (Western embassies B, C, D, E; a Western embassy in Khar-

toum, met in Asmara; International organisations A, B, C; a UN agency in Eritrea; a regional NGO based in

Asmara), Ethiopia (UNHCR in Addis Ababa; UNHCR Sub Office Shire; Norwegian Refugee Council, Addis Ab-

aba; Mr. Tamrat Kebede, Executive Director, InterAfrica Group (IAG); Swedish embassy, Addis Ababa;

Western embassy F, Addis Ababa; Danish Refugee Council/Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat

(DRC/RMMS); International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Addis Ababa) and Kibreab in London com-

mented on possible reasons for Eritreans leaving Eritrea.

Many of these sources (Western embassies B,C, D, E in Eritrea; a Western embassy in Khartoum, met in

Asmara; International organisations A, B, C; a UN agency in Eritrea; a regional NGO based in Asmara;

UNHCR in Addis Ababa; UNHCR Sub Office Shire; Norwegian Refugee Council, Addis Ababa; Kebede (IAG),

Ethiopia; Swedish embassy, Addis Ababa; Western embassy F, Addis Ababa; DRC/RMMS, Ethiopia; IOM,

Addis Ababa; Kibreab, London) stated that the main reasons for emigrating are the prolonged National

Service, the social and economic situation in the country including the prospects for a better life in Europe

or a combination hereof.

Several sources (Western embassies B,C,D in Eritrea; a Western embassy based in Khartoum (met in Asma-

ra); an International organisation (B) in Eritrea; a UN agency in Eritrea; a regional NGO based in Asmara;

Kibreab, London) stated that the uncertainties connected to the length of the National Service and the low

salary make young Eritreans leave the country.

According to the sources (Western embassies B, C, E in Eritrea; a Western embassy based in Khartoum (met

in Asmara); International organisations B and C in Eritrea; a UN agency in Eritrea; a regional NGO based in

Asmara), socio-economic reasons behind emigration from Eritrea included limited career opportunities, low

salary, poor education prospects, lack of economic development in Eritrea, as well as disillusionment with

the government.

A Western embassy (E) in Eritrea stated that there is basically no organized political opposition in Eritrea.

A Western embassy (C) emphasized that the Eritrean government does detain people for political reasons

and that there are reports of political prisoners that have died in prison. It was added that there is no gen-

eral climate of fear to detect in the population.

Kebede (IAG) in Ethiopia mentioned that political refugees leave Eritrea because of the repressive govern-

ment.

A Weste e ass D i E it ea stated that

ost people

who leave Eritrea do so for economic reasons

a d e ause of la k of li elihood oppo tu ities a d ot e ause of politi al ep essio .

A UN agency in Eritrea confirmed that hardly anyone leaves Eritrea for political reasons.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

4. National Service

4.1 Background

National Service in Eritrea was established in 1991 because the government wanted to mobilize the popula-

tion in the nation building project after the liberation war and independence from Ethiopia. At that time,

the National Service was not open-ended and most conscripts were demobilized after 18 months

According to a well-known Eritrean intellectual in Eritrea and Kibreab, London, following the border conflict

with Ethiopia in 1998-2000, the Eritrean government in 2002 introduced the Warsai-Yikealo Development

Ca paig . F o the o the Natio al Se i e e a e ope

-e

ded a d ith e fe e e ptio s. The

main reason the National Service has become open-ended is because of the state

of o a o pea e

between Eritrea and Ethiopia

Two Western embassies (C, D) in Eritrea stated that the government continues to justify the National Ser-

vice with the current unresolved border status with Ethiopia.

An International organisation (A) in Eritrea and two Western embassies (D, E) in Eritrea stated that the gov-

ernment could find it preferable to have people occupied in National Ser-vice as cheap labour.

Furthermore, a UN agency in Eritrea and a Western embassy (D) in Eritrea stated that the alternative to the

National Service for many Eritreans would be unemployment due to a poor economy, lack of investments

and a limited private sector.

4.2 Transition from school to National Service: Sawa

Currently, all secondary school students in Eritrea are required to take their final year of secondary school

at Sawa. The students are automatically transferred to Sawa, which is located along the Sawa River in east-

ern Eritrea

. The school at Sawa is located adjacent to a military facility where the Eritrean Defence Forces

train recruits

The school year at Sawa currently constitutes the main mechanism for conscription into the National Ser-

vice

Kibreab, Gaim: The Open-Ended Eritrean National Service: The Driver of Forced Migration - Paper for the European

Asylum Support Office Practical Cooperation Meeting on Eritrea, 15 October 2014:

http://www.ecoi.net/file_upload/90_1416473628_gaim-kibreab-the-open-ended-eritrean-national-service-the-driver-

of-forced-migration.pdf

Ibid.

Dan Connell & Tom Killion (2000). Historical Dictionary of Eritrea (2nd ed.).

Ibid.

Kibreab, Gaim: The Open-Ended Eritrean National Service: The Driver of Forced Migration - Paper for the European

Asylum Support Office Practical Cooperation Meeting on Eritrea, 15 October 2014:

http://www.ecoi.net/file_upload/90_1416473628_gaim-kibreab-the-open-ended-eritrean-national-service-the-driver-

of-forced-migration.pdf

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

An I

te atio al o ga isatio

ity.

A i E it ea added that e e the P eside t s hild e stud at the Sa a

facil-

Sources consulted in Eritrea (International organisations A and B; Western embassies C and D) confirmed

that as a general rule, all young Eritreans are expected to finish their last year of secondary schooling at the

Sawa facility where they also receive six months of military training.

Two Western embassies (C and D) in Eritrea stated that students at Sawa receive six months of physical and

military training alongside academic classes.

A egio al NGO ased i As a a e phasised that Sa a is

not a military camp but is basically the final two

years of high school. There are academic classes, some physical training, marching but no weapons training

as su h.

Kibreab, London stated that it is possible to be exempted from the military training component but not

from the National Service as such.

Regarding the specific details about how young Eritreans receive instructions regarding enrolment at the

Sawa facility, none of the sources were able to provide clear and detailed information.

However, an

I te atio al o ga isatio C i E it ea stated that o

-compliance with the recruitment

p o edu es is o side ed a sig of diso edie e. Refe e e as ade to a e e t e a ple f o As a a

concerning a young girl who did not show up at the meeting point, whereupon she was arrested and de-

tai ed. The autho ities i fo ed the gi l s othe that he daughte should e pu ished fo he atte pt to

evade National Service. The girl was detained for one week and was not abused while in detention.

4.3 After Sawa: Content of the National Service

Several sources in Eritrea (Western embassies C and D; International organisation A and B; a regional NGO

based in Asmara) stated that those who pass their matriculation exam at Sawa may continue their educa-

tion in various higher education institutions and they are ex-empted from further National Service until

they complete their higher education. Those who do not pass the exams continue in the National Service as

civilians or in the military.

A Western embassy (C) in Eritrea

e plai ed that afte e a s at Sa a, it is de ided hi h stude ts ha e

qualified for tertiary education. These students do not perform additional military training apart from the

o ths of ph si al a d ilita t ai i g [...] . The Weste e ass C

in Eritrea went on to explain

that o o pletio

of their higher or further education, they perform National Service in a civilian capacity

in a profession linked to their qualification

–

for example an engineer might work in the Department of

Public Works, an accountant in a state-o

ed a k o fi a ial i stitutio .

A I te atio al O ga isatio B i E it ea stated that the stude ts ho su essfull pass the at i ula-

tion exam in Sawa continue their education in various higher education institutions. Those who do not

qualify for further education enter the National Service [...] and they begin with approximately six months

of ilita t ai i g.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Several sources in Eritrea (Western embassies B and D; International organisation A; a regional NGO based

in Asmara) stated that civilian National Service could include employment in government administration

and institutions, hotels, hospitals, schools, factories, garages and in public construction projects such as

building of dams, roads and bridges.

Weste e ass F i Ethiopia o side ed that, ased o the a aila le i fo atio , the o ditio s

during military [national] service are horrible . However, the same source emphasized that the available

information was neither factual nor based on empirical work and therefore did not necessarily reflect the

ealit .

A Western embassy (D) in Eritrea stated that the main problem is the unpredictable length of the National

Service which is why young people are unhappy with it.

A regional NGO based in Asma

a stated that the i fo atio i hu a ights epo ts a out ill-treatment

the Natio al Se i e a e o e ofte tha ot e agge ated. The sa e sou e stated that o t a to e ist-

i g epo ts, people i the

National Service are not overworked or working under slave like conditions, not

eate , su je ted to to tu e o suffe i g f o

al ut itio .

4.4 Duration of service

Several sources in Eritrea (International organisation B; a UN agency; a regional NGO based in Asmara;

Western embassy E; Western embassy based in Khartoum; Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs) stated that

the National Service either is open-ended or could be open-ended.

A Weste e

is arbit

a .

ass

C i E it ea stated that the Natio al Se i e is ot eall i defi ite, ut he it e ds

a depe d o o e s spe ifi

A Western

e ass B i E it ea stated that the du atio of Natio al Se i e

skills and the individual employer.

A regional NGO based in Asmara and a Western embassy (D) in Eritrea stated that theoretically, National

Service lasts for 18 months but in reality it stretches far beyond that period of time.

A I te atio al o ga isatio

leased afte the o ligato

B i E it ea stated that people a

o ths se i e .

e e

e e tai that the

ill e

An International organisation (A), a Western embassy (B) and a well-known Eritrean intellectual in Eritrea

stated that the National Service could last for ten years or even longer.

However, statements from some sources in Eritrea indicated that the duration of National Service has be-

come shorter in recent years:

O e Weste e ass D stated that a oadl sha ed pe eptio is that the go e

e t has eased its

approach to National Service. Today it is easier to be released from service and for young people today,

Natio

al Se i e see s to e li ited to a ouple of ea s.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

A othe Weste e ass C stated that it had hea d of people i thei fo ties ho

tio al Se i e, ut i ge e al, th ee to fou ea s see ed to e the o

e e still i the Na-

Likewise, a Weste

e ass B stated that the e a e i di atio s that pe so s e olled i the Natio al

Se i e se e fo a sho te pe iod of ti e tha as the ase so e ea s ago .

Finally, a well-known Eritrean intellectual in Eritrea stated that previously, the National Service could last

for over ten years. However, currently the duration of service is usually between three to five years.

4.5 Salaries

Several sources in Eritrea (a regional NGO based in Asmara; International organisation A; Western embas-

sies C, D and E; Western embassy based in Khartoum, met in Asmara) and Kibreab, London, stated that the

salary in the National Service is very low.

Several sources (a regional NGO based in Asmara; Western embassies C and E in Eritrea; Kibreab, London)

stated that the monthly salary during the first 18 months of National Service is ranging from approximately

80 Nakfa up to 600 Nakfa. After 18 months it could increase to a maximum of 1500 Nakfa

A Western embassy (C) in Eritrea stated that in comparison, a gardener working at an embassy received

3,500 Nakfa per month. An employee at a private hotel would get 3,000 Nakfa per month and a Minister

receives approximately 4,000 Nakfa per month.

Weste

ass C i E it ea la elled the Natio al Se i e sala

as po ket

o e .

Kibreab, London, stated that no one can survive on that salary and people in service have to rely on support

from their family and possible remittances.

A Western embassy (C) in Eritrea stated that as a consequence of the low wages people working in National

Service are often not very motivated and they often do not show for work.

4.6 People’s Militia/Army

Several sources in Eritrea (International organisations A and B; Western embassies A, C and E) commented

o the People s ilitia. A o di g to an

International organisation (A) and a Western embassy (A), the Peo-

ple s Militia as esta lished i eithe

. A o di g to I te atio al o ga isatio A , it as es-

tablished for the purpose of widening the mobilization and development capacity of the country.

Several sources in Eritrea (International organisations A and B; Western embassies A and C) stated that

People s A

recruits consist of people that have been called in after being demobilised from the National

Service.

An International o

ga isatio A i E it ea stated that oth o e a d

Army, without limitations as to the age.

e a e e olled i to the People s

The exchange rate early October 2014 was USD 100 to 1500 Nakfa, as observed by the delegation in Asmara.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Several sources in Eritrea (International organisations A and B; Western embassies C and D) stated that the

duties for those enlisted could include guarding public buildings or working on development related pro-

jects. As an example, a Western embassy (C) referred to a local embassy staff that did not show for work

one morning and it turned out that the staff member had been assigned a guard duty in the airport in As-

mara that day.

An International organisation (B) in Eritrea stated that it is not possible to distinguish clearly between Na-

tio al Se i e, People s A

a d the egula a ed fo es of E it ea, a d hethe sa e pe alties

apply in

the event of desertion from or evasion of service.

However, one Western embassy (D) in Eritrea emphasized that it is important to distinguish between Na-

tio al Se i e a d se i e i the People s A

. It as fu the poi ted out that those e olled

in the Peo-

ple s A

usuall ha e o di a jo s, ut the a e pe iodi all e ui ed to e ei e so e ilita t ai i g

and occasionally perform guard duties or participate

i pu li o k su h as uildi g da s .

An International organisation (A) in Erit

ea stated that

e e s of the People s A

a e p o ided

with [weapons], and consequently keep their weapons at home, whenever they are not called to bring

them along, e.g. for tasks such as patrolling and guarding. Conscription to the Popular Army [People

s Ar-

my] is the responsibility of the local authorities and recruits may be called to undergo short-time military

t ai i g p og a s, to se e i assu i g se u it at lo al le el e.g. pat olli g .

O e Weste e ass C i E it ea stated that the government

has distributed Kalashnikov rifles to

members of the militia to keep at home. The militia members are required to show once a month or every

se o d eek fo ph si al t ai i g a d at ti es a e alled to a tual ilita t ai i g .

According to a Western embassy (D) in Eritrea, there are reports of recruitment into National Service of 40

to 50 years old people for military drills or temporary service. In some cases, they are rounded up and tak-

en to military barracks.

4.7 Round-ups of National Service draft evaders

A Western embassy (A) in Eritrea and Kibreab, London, had heard about round-ups of evaders or deserters

from the National Service in villages out in the country.

A o di g to a I te atio al o ga isatio B i E it ea, there

was no visible evidence during day time of

round-ups of suspected National Service evaders or deserters in Asmara in recent months. The same source

emphasized that due to travel restrictions on international organisations in the country, the source was

unable to comment on round-ups outside of Asmara. The source stated that no verifiable information was

a aila le o hethe ou d ups take pla e i the e e i gs o du i g the ight .

A egio al NGO ased i As a a stated that app o i atel fi e o si ea s ago, the e

was a much stricter

recruitment procedure to the National Service. At that time, people of the National Service age were being

stopped in police ID checks in the streets or collected by soldiers if they did not show up when called in.

However, during the last five to six years, there has been a relaxation in recruitment procedures and one

does not see soldiers undertaking round-ups

of people i to Natio al Se i e a lo ge .

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

4.8 Consequences for evasion/desertion from the National Service

Several sources in Eritrea (a regional NGO based in Asmara; Western embassies A, B and D) stated that

penalties for evading and/or deserting National Service were not systematic but would most likely include

detention ranging from a few days to a maximum of six months. A UN-agency in Eritrea doubted that evad-

ers or deserters were actually imprisoned.

Western embassies (C) and (D) in Eritrea emphasised that the justice system in Eritrea is arbitrary and rules

are not applied in a uniform manner. A Western embassy (E) in Eritrea stated that the judicial system is not

well functioning.

Western embassies (B) and (E) in Eritrea stated that the government needs the National Service work force

and that the government would rather let evaders and deserters be sent back to work than imprison them.

One Western embassy (B) stated that this was particularly the case during harvest time.

A Western embassy (B) in Eritrea stated that as an additional punishment, persons are deployed to unde-

sirable posts near the Ethiopian border.

A regional NGO based in Asmara and an International organisation (C) in Eritrea stated that the punishment

could be more severe if the person had deserted from a more important work in critical sectors within the

National Service, as for example the fire brigade.

A regional NGO based in Asmara stated that evaders or deserters detained for three months to six months

e e eleased u o ditio all f o the Natio al Se i e a d o side ed otte apples

the autho ities

since the authorities want to prevent the dese

te s f o e e isi g a ad i flue e o othe s .

Western embassies (B), (C) and (D) in Eritrea stated that the capacity of the state and the security appa-

atus to e fo e la s a d ules elati g to the Natio al Se i e a d o t ol of itize s o e e t

seem to

be diminishing.

Information provided by Kibreab, London, suggests that until a few years ago, evaders and deserters were

routinely subjected to severe punishment including torture and detention under severe conditions over a

prolonged period of time. It was further added that those refusing or failing to participate in National Ser-

i e ould isk to lose a u e of his o he itize s ights a d, i e eptio al ases, isk i defi ite i ar-

ceration or loss of life.

However, Kibreab, London, also stated that over the past two to three years, the govern-

e t s attitude

towards National Service seems to be more relaxed. It is now possible for evaders and deserters who have

left Eritrea illegally to return if they pay the two percent tax and sign the apology letter at an Eritrean em-

bassy. Finally, Kibreab was aware of a few deserters from the National Service who have visited Eritrea and

safely left the country again.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

4.8.1 Reprisals against family members

A regional NGO based in Asmara and Western embassies (C) and (D) in Eritrea stated that they were not

aware of documented examples in recent years of retributions or reprisals by the Eritrean authorities

against family members of National Service evaders or deserters.

One Western embassy (D) in Eritrea stated that up until approximately one year ago, there were reports

that relatives of evaders and deserters had been imprisoned or enrolled in National Service instead of the

evader or deserter. The source suggested that this change could be attributed to either a policy change or

because of

the go e

e t s de li i g apacity

to enforce the National Service. The source finally added

that it would be technically difficult and politically unsustainable for the government to carry out reprisals

in massive numbers against relatives of National Service evaders or deserters.

A egio al NGO ased i As a a stated that the e had ee epo ts i te atio al NGOs o elati es of

National Service deserters or evaders having been forced to undertake National Service on behalf of their

elati es . The sa e sou e e phasized that su h i ide ts a e ot do u e ted a d that it is defi itel

not government policy to retaliate against relatives of National Service evaders or deserters. If such treat-

ment occurred relati

es ould tell a out it .

Kibreab, London,

stated that the E it ea

government does not as a rule harass relatives to National Ser-

i e e ade s o dese te s. Ho e e , if the pa e ts o ga ized thei so s es ape, the autho ities ight i

some cases detain the parents for a short time and they are released after paying a hefty

fi e .

A Western

e ass B stated that the autho ities ould appl p essu e o fa il

e e s of Natio al

Se i e e ade s o dese te s. This ould i lude losi g the fa il s shop o a eje tio of shop li e se.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

5. Return to Eritrea

5.1. Regularizing relationship with the government before returning to Eritrea

Many of the sources consulted in Eritrea (International organisation A; Western embassies A, C and E;

Western embassy based in Khartoum, met in Asmara; Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and Kibreab,

London, commented on the issue of the possibility of Eritreans regularizing their relationship with the gov-

ernment prior to returning to Eritrea. They all stated that Eritreans that have left the country illegally have

the option of regularizing their relationship with the authorities by paying a two percent income tax at an

Eritrean embassy and signing an apology letter.

Kibreab, London stated that by signing the apology lette

, o e a epts a

ted , that is e asio o dese tio a d illegal e it.

pe alt fo the offe se o

it-

A Western embassy (D) stated that in some cases, National Service evaders and deserters have restored

their relationship to the authorities prior to their return to Eritrea by paying the two percent tax.

An International organisation (B) in Eritrea concurred that there is information to suggest that Eritreans

abroad, including those who have left the country illegally, are able to obtain Eritrean passports at Eritrean

embassies if they sign an apology letter and pay the two percent income tax levied on all Eritreans living

abroad.

The same source emphasised that although it might be possible to return by paying the two percent tax

and signing the apology letter, there is no information available on the specific profile of persons who are

able to benefit from this practice.

According to several sources in Eritrea (International organisation A; Western embassies A, C, D and E;

Western embassy based in Khartoum, met in Asmara) and Kibreab, London, this would also enable Eritre-

ans who have evaded or deserted National Service and left the country illegally to be issued with the neces-

sary travel documents and return to Eritrea.

Kibreab, London, specified that

a E it ea

ho does ot e gage i a politi al o i il so iet a ti it

against the government would be issued a new Eritrean passport, regardless of his or her National Service

status .

An International organisation (A) in Eritrea added that Eritrean embassies might refuse to accept an apolo-

gy letter from common criminals.

The Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that National Service evaders and deserters have the

possibility of restoring their relationship with the Eritrean government by paying the two percent tax and

by signing a letter of apology. This has been done by a number of people and they have returned to Eritrea

without any complications. It was added that if a person has committed a crime, due process is respected.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

5.2. Possible Penalties for illegal exit for individuals who return to Eritrea

Many of the sources in Eritrea (International organisations A, B and C; a UN agency; A well-known Eritrean

intellectual; Western embassies A, C, D and E) and Kibreab, London, commented on the consequences that

evaders or deserters from the National Service might incur when returning from abroad after having paid

the two percent tax and signed the apology letter.

A Western embassy (D) in Eritrea and an International organisation (A) in Eritrea stated that it is not com-

pletely clear what happens to National Service evaders or deserters when they return to Eritrea.

A Western embassy (D) stated that presently, there are no reports on returning deserters being imprisoned

or otherwise severely punished.

An International organisation (B) in Eritrea stated that there were no known examples of systematic prose-

cution of people that had left Eritrea illegally.

An International organisation (C) in Eritrea stated that returning evaders or deserters would face detention

ranging from a couple of days or up to one week, followed by reenrolment in the National Service. The

same source added that returnees could be sent off to undesirable duty stations near the Ethiopian border.

Another International organisation (B) in Eritrea added that those who re-enter Eritrea with their passport

acquired abroad and re-establish their residence in Eritrea would most likely be obliged to perform their

Natio al Se i e o joi the People s A

A UN agency in Eritrea stated that while National Service evaders and deserters may be apprehended, the

source doubted that they were actually imprisoned.

Several sources in Eritrea (A well-known Eritrean intellectual; Western embassies A, C and E) stated that

once a person had restored his or their relationship by paying the tax and signing an apology letter, there

would be no consequences upon return, regardless of evasion or desertion from National Service by leaving

the country. A well-known Eritrean intellectual added that such a person would not be recruited or reen-

listed in the National Service.

A Western embassy (E) in Eritrea added that it cannot be ruled out that the government would find deser-

tion from the military an aggravated circumstance. However, according to the same source, there was no

specific information to support that particular concern.

Information provided by Kibreab, London, suggests that until a few years ago, returning evaders and de-

serters were routinely subjected to severe punishment including torture and detention under severe condi-

tions over a prolonged period of time. It was further added that those refusing or failing to participate in

Natio al Se i e ould isk to lose a u e of his o he itize s ights a d, i e eptio al ases isk in-

definite incarceration or loss of life. Returning evaders or deserters that were known for political opposi-

tional activities abroad upon return to Eritrea were taken to underground cells at a prison outside of Asma-

ra while they were under investigation.

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However, Kibreab, London also stated that over the past two to three years, it is now possible for evaders

and deserters who have left Eritrea illegally to return if they pay the two percent tax and sign the apology

letter at an Eritrean embassy. Kibreab was aware of a few deserters from the National Service who have

visited Eritrea and safely left the country again.

5.2.1. Are National Service evaders or deserters seen as traitors and political opponents by the

government

A Western embassy (A) in Eritrea stated

that o di a people ho e ade the Natio al Se i e o dese t

from the service are not being prosecuted and imprisoned and they are not at risk of disappearances. That

kind of treatment is reserved for people who have had some kind of oppositional activities i.e. political

p iso e s .

Western embassies (A) and (C) in Eritrean stated that persons considered political opponents by the gov-

ernment would risk reprisals such as very long detention and prison sentences upon return to Eritrea. A

Western embassy (C) was aware of political prisoners that had died in prison. It should be noted that none

of the sources had information about prison conditions and the number of political prisoners currently held

due to a lack of access of external observers to these facilities.

A UN agency and Western embassies (A) and (D) in Eritrea concurred and emphasised that the Eritrean

government does not consider evaders and deserters as traitors or political opponents to the government.

A Western embassy based in Khartoum (met in Asmara) referred to a public statement made by the Head

of the Political Office of the PFDJ, that those who have left Eritrea to avoid National Service are considered

economic refugees and not political opponents.

According to Kibreab, London, the

go e

e t s opp essio is ta geti g a ki d of politi al oppositio to

the state and/or the ruling party and not the general public as such. Those targeted are persons who might

be suspected of potentially mobilizing public opinion, criticize the government or sympathizing with any

form of opposition.

Information provided by Kibreab, London, further suggests that until a few years ago, persons who had left

Eritrea illegally and who had evaded or deserted from National Service were considered to have committed

treason and were liable to a severe punishment.

Ho e e , Ki ea , Lo do also stated that o e the past t o to th ee ea s, the go e

e t s attitude

to a ds Natio al Se i e see s to e o e ela ed . It is o possi le fo e ade s a d dese te s ho

have

left Eritrea illegally to return if they pay the two percent tax and signs the apology letter at an Eritrean em-

ass . It as added that i spite of this softe app oa h a e ade s a d dese te s still do ot da e to

etu to E it ea . Ho e e , Kibreab,

London was aware of a few deserters from the National Service who

have visited Eritrea and safely left the country again.

5.3. Examples of returns

Information provided by several sources in Eritrea (Western embassies A, C, D; a Western embassy based in

Khartoum (met in Asmara); an International organisation (C)) support the notion that a significant number

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

of Eritreans do travel back and forth between Eritrea and other countries on a regular basis with the pur-

pose of visiting family and relatives, or for business or tourism. This is particularly the case during summer.

Kebede (IAG) in Ethiopia stated that some members of the Eritrean Diaspora could go back to Eritrea on

family visits or because they feel obliged to fight for their country. However, those who return are probably

connected with the government and some are allowed back because they have businesses that the gov-

ernment takes an interest in.

Several sources in Eritrea (Western embassies A, C, D; an International organisation (A) found it likely that

the group of people returning to Eritrea would include persons who had evaded or deserted from the Na-

tional Service when they left the country.

A Western embassy (A) in Eritrea referred to

a episode f o Ju e

the Swedish air carrier

Ol pi

e t a k upt lea i g app o i atel

E it ea s ith S edish passpo ts st a ded i As a a.

The majority of the stranded passengers had originally left Eritrea illegally and had either evaded or desert-

ed from National Service. It took some time to organize new tickets but eventually they were all able to fly

back to Sweden. It is not known if they had regularized their relations with the government by paying the

two percent tax and by signing an apology letter, but they were all allowed to lea

e E it ea .

According to a well-known Eritrean intellectual in Eritrea, it is not possible to denounce one´s Eritrean citi-

zenship, despite having obtained another citizenship abroad. The same source further stated that dual citi-

zenship is recognized in Eritrea.

Ki ea , Lo do , e phasized that all E it ea s ith a othe o

a father or both of Eritrean origin regard-

less of birth place and citizenship is deemed an Eritrean even against their expressed wish. It is not possible

to renounce Eritrean citize

ship .

A o di g to a egio al NGO ased i As a a, th ee ea s ago Eg pt etu ed a la ge u e of E it ea s

by plane. The returnees had been arrested by the Egyptian authorities on the border to Israel and they

were deported to Eritrea. Egypt filled up several commercial planes each carrying more than 150 passen-

gers. Upon arrival in Eritrea the women were free to enter Eritrea while the men were taken to a detention

camp for questioning on why they had left Eritrea. The men were detained for approximately two weeks

after which they were free to return to their own communities. However, only half a dozen or so were tried

at the i i al ou t fo pe ei ed illegal e o o i a ti ities .

According to Kebede (IAG) in Ethiopia and Kibreab in London, persons who have not participated in opposi-

tional political activities abroad and persons who in any way are connected to the government would be

more inclined to return to Eritrea on visits. Gaim Kibreab was aware of a few National Service evaders who

had visited Eritrea and safely left the country again.

5.4. Recent developments

Several sources in Eritrea (Western embassies A and D; an International organisation (A)) stated that the

Eritrean Government recently has changed its approach to migration issues and has become more under-

standable towards citizens leaving the country.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

An International organisation (B) in Eritrea and a well-known Eritrea intellectual in Eritrea considered that

the easo fo this shift i attitude as the go e

e t s desi e to e ou age

Eritreans to return to Eritrea.

An International organisation (B) in Eritrea considered that the Eritrean government is increasingly realizing

that the exodus of mainly young men and women has reached a scale that threatens the development of

Eritrea, as well as that the government is in the process of leaving its position of isolation and gradually

opening up to the international community.

The E it ea Mi ist of Fo eig Affai s ad itted that E it ea has so e hu a ights issues a d that o e

of the real issues is the open-e

ded Natio al Se i e . The i ist added that the Natio al Se i e is ei g

discussed in the government but no specific information about whether or when it would undergo change

as p o ided. Fi all the i ist stated that the

Eritrean government and the EU and the embassies of

the Eu opea ou t ies a e i a o goi g a d o st u ti e dialogue .

A Western embassy (D) in Eritrea stated that a broadly shared perception is that the government has eased

its approach to National Service and that it is now easier to be released from National Service, which today

seems to be limited to a couple of years for most young people.

A Weste e ass A i E it ea e phasized that the go e

e t s attitude to a ds dese te s a d e ad-

ers in Eritrea has changed for the better. As such, evaders and deserters are not subjected to protracted

imprisonment, not exposed to physical harm and finally, not considered as political opponents. The source

further stated that this change has not yet been reflected in any of the available human rights reports on

Eritrea.

Ki ea , Lo do , stated that o e the past t o to th ee ea s, the go e

e t s attitude to a ds Natio al

Se i e see s to e o e ela ed . It is o possi le fo e ade s a d dese te s ho

have left Eritrea illegal-

ly to return if they pay the two percent tax and signs the apology letter at an Eritrean embassy. It was add-

ed that i spite of this softe app oa h a e ade s a d dese te s still do ot da e to etu to E it ea .

However, Kibreab was aware of a few deserters from the National Service who have visited Eritrea and

safely left the country again.

Kebede (IAG) in Ethiopia considered, based on testimonies from people who had left Eritrea, that there had

not been any improvement regarding National Service in recent years.

A well-known Eritrean intellectual in Eritrea stated that due to a change in regulations concerning exit visas

about two years ago, it is now unproblematic for Eritreans living abroad and/or Eritreans holding dual citi-

zenship to obtain an exit visa in Eritrea.

A Western embassy (D) in Eritrea explained that the Eritrean government recently has opened up to the

world and loosened the control it exerts over its citizens. It is no longer obligatory to declare foreign cur-

rency in the airport and the government encourages foreign investments and joint ventures.

Many of the sources consulted in Eritrea (Western embassies A, B, E; a Western embassy based in Khar-

toum (met in Asmara); a UN agency; an International organisation (A); a regional NGO based in Asmara; a

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

well-known Eritrean intellectual) as well as a Western embassy (F) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stated that

most of the available reports on the human rights situation in Eritrea do not reflect the recent changes in

Eritrea. According to these sources, such reports should therefore not be considered representative of an

accurate image of the current situation in Eritrea regarding issues such as National Service, illegal exit and

the general human rights situation.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Annex A

–

Sources consulted

Notes from meetings with sources consulted in Eritrea

International Organisation (A) ..................................................................................................................... 22

International Organisation (B) ..................................................................................................................... 26

International organisation (C) ..................................................................................................................... 28

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eritrea .............................................................................................................. 30

UN agency.................................................................................................................................................... 31

Regional NGO based in Asmara ................................................................................................................... 34

Well-known Eritrean intellectual................................................................................................................. 38

Western embassy (A) .................................................................................................................................. 39

Western embassy (B)................................................................................................................................... 41

Western embassy (C)................................................................................................................................... 45

Western embassy (D) .................................................................................................................................. 50

Western embassy (E) ................................................................................................................................... 54

Western embassy, Khartoum (met in Asmara) ........................................................................................... 56

Notes from meetings with sources consulted in Ethiopia

Danish Refugee Council/Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat ................................................................. 58

IOM, Addis Ababa ........................................................................................................................................ 61

Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Addis Ababa ........................................................................................ 63

Swedish embassy, Addis Ababa................................................................................................................... 66

Tamrat Kebede, Executive Director, InterAfrica Group (IAG) ..................................................................... 67

UNHCR in Addis Ababa ................................................................................................................................ 69

UNHCR Sub Office Shire............................................................................................................................... 72

Western embassy (F) ................................................................................................................................... 74

Note from meeting with a source in London

Professor Gaim Kibreab, London South Bank University ............................................................................ 76

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Notes from meetings with sources consulted in Eritrea

International Organisation (A)

Daily life/economy

An international organisation explained that in general, it is perceived that the space for international co-

operation is widening.

In Asmara, and the country, there is scarcity of water, heating and electricity and these supplies are often

shut down temporarily and without notice. However, people accommodate to the difficult situation and

nobody dares to complain about it. It was added that all kinds of everyday commodities are for sale in the

cities but prices are quite high. Credit cards are not used in Eritrea and people have to go to the bank to

take out money. Bank accounts are obligatory for people working for the state.

There are (semi) privately owned companies and hotels in Eritrea, but they are few. Some of those compa-

nies, mine companies and small scale factories could be employing staff from the National Service. The

same accounts for some hotels.

E it ea so iet a est e des i ed as a lass-less so iet , a d this is also ho the E it ea go e

e t

would like to present it. As such, there is no upper-class in Eritrea, and there are no slum areas. Even the

President lives in a moderate environment and his children study in Sawa and not in some high-end school

in the USA or Canada. If one should identify some privileged groups, it would be the veterans who fought in

the liberation war and the Eritrean Diaspora who are welcome to return to/invest in Eritrea. Those who

leave the country are mostly male, young and well-educated people who see no job opportunities in Eri-

trea. In the rural areas it is mostly youngsters trying to avoid National Service who leave the country. It was

added that 80% of the population are either peasants or pastoralists. In many villages single female headed

households dominate because the men are serving their National Service in other regions of the country,

or, may have hidden or left the country.

National Service

Most people below the age of 50 are working either for the government or for private companies, or they

are enrolled into Military National Service. Normally you will have to work for the National Service when

you become 18 years of age. The age of enrollment into the National Service is not clearly defined and

so e a e o ki g fo the Natio al Se i e fo up to te ea s a d o e efo e ei g de o ilized . Withi

this system, the economy is getting advantage of cheap labor force as the salary from National Service is

very low.

All young men and women are sent to the Sawa training center at completion of 11

grade in school. Based

on the exam results, it is decided who qualifies and is allowed into the various institutions of higher educa-

tion, or Military service. Others may be found more suitable for physical work, such as construction and

farming, and attributed accordingly.

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People s A

the go e

e t esta lished the People s A

ith the pu pose of ide i g its

capacity for mobi-

lization and self-reliant development of

the ou t . Re uits to the People s A

a e pe so s ho fo

various reasons have been exhumpted of/ demobilized from the National Service and have thus lost their

National Service income. Both wome

a d e a e e olled i to the People s A

without limitations as

to the age. Me e s of the People s A

a e p o ided ith, a d o se ue tl keep,

their weapons at

home whenever they are not called to bring them along, e.g. for tasks such as patrolling and guarding. Con-

scription to the Popular Army is the responsibility of the local authorities and recruits may be called to un-

dergo short-time military training programs, to serve in assuring security at local level (e.g. patrolling), or

else be appointed for construction work at a dam or other major sites of national relevance.

Everything in Eritrea is highly regularized. If an employee wishes to be employed somewhere else, he or she

will have to be issued a so-

alled elease pape f o the e ployer.

To open a private business, a shop, or

else one has to apply to the government and will also need a release paper if enrolled into the National

Service as well as a license to open a private business. Free education and access to health care and further

state-provided social services, and privileges all require adherence to National Service and/or other qualifi-

catio

fo esee

the state. Those e olled i the People s A

would have to document that they have

attended required military training and call-ups for duties.

Detention/prisons

It is very difficult to conclude anything about detention conditions in Eritrea. Currently, it is not possible to

judge whether the prisons are bad or not as conditions are undocumented. No international observers have

been granted access to prisons since 2009. At that time Eritrean prisons were not worse than in other Afri-

can countries and inmates had access to fresh air and were given sufficient food. There have been, and are

ongoing negotiations with the government regarding renewed access, and independent monitoring

Diaspora/Returns to Eritrea

An International organisation explained that there are indications of Eritreans having been repatriated from

Israel and other places to Eritrea. However, no one really knows what may happen to people returning.

Concern was expressed as to what could happen if the Nordic countries conclude that the situation in Eri-

trea has improved.

The official statement is that all Eritreans are free to return to Eritrea, but of course they would have to

participate in the development of the country including the National Service.

It was stated that the right way to legalize a stay abroad, should one have left Eritrea illegally, is to pay the

two percent income tax and sign an apology letter. Having done so, one can be issued a passport and legal-

ly enter and leave Eritrea without facing harassment or repercussions. Accordingly, deserters who have left

Eritrea illegally, use this procedure to restore their relations with the government. Obviously, it cannot be

excluded that there may be authorities who refuse to accept an apology letter if the person in question is a

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

common criminal. However, the general feeling is that the authorities within the past year have become

more relaxed and understanding towards their young people who have left the country.

It was recalled that any people in Eritrea are dependent on remittances from relatives abroad as there is a

lack of sufficient income in the country. The Diaspora is playing a key role in the Eritrean economy. Almost

all construction work, including house construction, is almost exclusively financed by diaspora money.

Border crossing to Ethiopia

Regarding the shoot-and-kill policy allegedly practiced at the border to Ethiopia it was stated that infor-

mation on this might have been partly true previously, but that people are no longer being shot at just be-

cause they try to cross the border into Ethiopia.

In general people in Eritrea are disillusioned about the ruling party, the government and the fate of their

country, one of the reasons often heard for opting to leave. However, there are no exact figures on how

many people are leaving Eritrea. Statistics and figures are a big mess in Eritrea. Not even an official popula-

tion figure exists, but most sources would estimate that currently, the total population in Eritrea is approx-

imately 3�½ million people. It is possible that there could have been an increase in the number of people

leaving Eritrea recently, but there is no reliable data on this. On the other hand, it is a new phenomenon

that youngsters and even children of five to six years of age are showing up in Ethiopia or Sudan after hav-

ing crossed the border illegally. International organisations such as UNHCR have no any reliable data on the

trends or the numbers of these border-crossings, as many people move without any reporting. However,

the estimate of between 5,000 and 10,000 people leaving Eritrea on a monthly basis seems to be in the

very high end.

Political prisoners

No international human rights observers have had access to Eritrea for many years and this indicates that

these observers cannot report in a balanced manner. They rely on information provided by the diaspora or

E it ea efugees, ofte

ithout uestio i g the state e ts elia ilit , i.e. he e a d he a i

de t ight ha e o u ed. Ma of the detai ees o side ed politi al a e fea ed to e lost as the ill

probably not be allowed to be monitored by the ICRC or other international organisations involved in moni-

toring of detention conditions.

Opening up

Today it is possible to speak out openly in Eritrea about the migration issue. An example of a gradual open-

ness is the fact that Eritrea participated with a high level delegation in the recent

Regional conference on

Human Trafficking and Smuggling in the Horn of Africa,

held in Khartoum. This fact should be seen as an

official recognition that there is a migration problem from/related to Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Education

The University of Asmara continues to teach a limited number of subjects, while other faculties have been

split up in a number of decentralized colleges e.g. medicine, technology and agriculture. It is said that stu-

dent demonstrations in 2001 contributed to that government decision. Japan and India have since 2012

supported the development of infrastructure, standards and curricula, and provided qualified teaching

personnel. Basically, the curricula and standards at the university are egalitarian and allow for free access

for anyone providing [provided that they have] the required qualifications, both men and women.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

International Organisation (B)

Natio al Se i e, People s A

a d the a

ed fo es

The Mission was able to establish, from generally available information, that all students go to Sawa to

complete the last grade of secondary school. The students who successfully pass the matriculation exam in

Sawa continue their education in various higher education institutions. Those who do not qualify for further

education enter the National Service, unless they are exempted for other reasons, and they begin with

approximately six months of military training. After the military training, some are selected for continuation

of military-related duties in various parts of Eritrea and others continue to perform National Service as civil-

ians.

There is lack of clarity on timeframes of different components of National Service or whether rules and

procedures are applied in a uniform manner to all recruits. Although the timeframes are not clear, anyone

may be demobilized, i.e. released from the National Service, and free to take up whatever jobs available to

them.

Information suggests that, although demobilized, one may at any time be called in for service in what is

efe ed to as the People s A

. The People s A

is esse tiall a ilitia o a eighborhood

watch militia,

which may also be requested to undertake development/rehabilitation related projects. Especially follow-

i g the Ja ua

i ide t Fo to I ide t , the People s A

has i easi gl filled the gap that as

left when a sizable portion of the army was reportedly pulled out of Asmara. Since then, members of the

People s A

e e also o se ed to take o e the ole of gua di g of a ious pu li uildi gs.

From discussions with the International Organisation in Eritrea, it was not possible to distinguish sharply

et ee Natio al Se i e, People s A

a d the egula a ed fo es of E it ea, a d hethe sa e pe al-

ties applied to desertion from these institutions

An international Organisation in Eritrea explained that the main problem with the National Service is that in

so e ases it a e ope

-e

ded , i.e. people a e e e e tai that the ill e eleased afte the

obligatory 18 months service. It was pointed out that people may have mixed motives to leave the country.

It may not only be the National Service that is leading Eritreans to leave the country; deteriorating socio-

economic conditions also play a role in the decision to leave, which needs to be assessed on a case-by-case

basis.

Round-ups

In recent months, there was no visible evidence during day time of round-ups of suspected National Service

evaders or deserters in Asmara. Due to travel restrictions on international organisations in the country, the

International Organisation in Eritrea was unable to comment on round-ups outside of Asmara. There was

also no verifiable information available on whether round-ups take place in the evenings or during the

night.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Reentry into Eritrea

The international community in Eritrea is unable to monitor the situation of National Service evaders and

deserters who have left the country. Therefore, those consulted were unable to comment on treatment

upon return or the accuracy of publicly available reports on this issue. There is information to suggest that

Eritreans abroad, including those who left the country illegally, are able to obtain Eritrean passports at Eri-

t ea E assies if the sig a apolog lette a d sta t to et oa ti el pa the t o pe e t i o e ta

levied on all Eritrean citizens living abroad. However, there was no information available to those consulted

on the specific profile of persons who are able to benefit from this practice, i.e. whether deserters or evad-

ers could benefit. It was deemed very unlikely that those who have a fear of persecution would be ap-

proaching Eritrean Embassies to acquire a passport and consequently try to re-enter the country. There

were no known cases of prosecution for illegal exit for individuals who acquired an Eritrean passport based

on the above-mentioned procedure. It was added that those who re-enter Eritrea with their passports ac-

quired abroad and re-establish their residence in Eritrea would most likely be obliged to perform their Na-

tio al Se i e o joi the People s A

Leaving Eritrea

From discussions with an International Organisation in Eritrea, it seems that the Eritrean government is

increasingly realizing that the exodus of mainly young men and women has reached a scale that threatens

the development of Eritrea. The government is in the process of leaving its position of isolation and is grad-

ually opening up to the international community. There is also increasing willingness to engage the UN

Country Team, including UNHCR, on issues related to trafficking of Eritrean citizens. The very recent acces-

sion to two UN Conventions

–

on torture

a d t a s atio al o ga ized i e a d the latte s P oto ol o

trafficking in human beings

– as ell as the go e

e t s e gage e t i a ious i te atio al

fora is an

expression of this new orientation.

Freedom of movement/border crossings

An International Organisation in Eritrea confirmed that there is general freedom of movement throughout

Eritrea for nationals. Foreigners require a travel permit to travel 25 km beyond Asmara. There are no real

checkpoints in the country except for sensitive areas, such as those closer to borders. Nationals travelling

to some areas close to the border could be asked to demonstrate proof that they live there or that they

have legitimate reason for travelling. However, Eritrea has a long and porous border to Sudan and Ethiopia

and it may be fairly easy to cross the two borders.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

International organisation (C)

Economic situation

An International organisation stated that Eritrea is very safe compared to other African countries as the

culture of the Eritrean people generally shuns crime. Crimes like violent theft and robbery are not common

even though the people in general are rather poor. The country is small, it has a small population and the

capital Asmara is not much populated. This is also a reason why one does not see packed and filthy slum

areas in Asmara. The poverty gap is difficult to see in Eritrea. Unemployment is high, and there is no signifi-

cant private sector activity.

Few checkpoints or roadblocks exist and one does not easily see any ID checks in the streets. Many people

are employed in the security sector but they are reportedly not sufficiently compensated for their work.

The old generation i.e. the people who fought the war for independence still rules Eritrea, but the younger

generation looks to a different kind of nation building from guns and fighting to education and economic

opportunities. The young generation is looking for opportunities such as education and jobs, but this is

hat is issi g i toda s E it ea. La k of

opportunities and the prospect of living a decent life is what

makes the young generation look to Europe. Approximately 60 per cent of all Eritrean families have rela-

tives outside the country and there is a strong perception of how life is in Europe. By the end of the day

many youngsters ignore the risks involved in travelling to Europe. It is a precarious journey from Eritrea to

Sudan, Egypt and Israel or to Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya. To estimate the number of Eritreans leaving their

country for Europe each month is very difficult. The living conditions are worsening in Eritrea, and the

economy is not doing well. Electricity is restricted, every day there are disruptions for several hours and it

has gotten worse the past couple of years.

Reentry of Eritreans living abroad etc.

Ma E it ea s a oad etu to thei ho ela d fo tou is

abroad are closely connected to their country of origin.

Desertion and evasion

Lack of cooperation with the National Service will now and then be punished. As an example of what may

happen to an evader, reference was made to a recent incident in Asmara. A young girl did not show up at

the eeti g poi t a d she as a ested a d detai ed. The gi l s othe a e to the p iso

in order to have

her daughter released because the daughter was needed to look after her younger siblings at home. The

request was rejected by the prison authority. The mother was told that her daughter should be punished

for her attempt to evade National Service. The young girl was not abused or victim of other violations while

detained. She was released after one week in detention. It was added that non-compliance with the re-

cruitment procedures is considered a sign of disobedience. The punishment could be more serious depend-

ing on the specific circumstances, e.g. if a person has deserted from more important work in National Ser-

vice.

, i.e. isiti g fa ilies a d elati es. E it ea s

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

If a National Service evader or a deserter who has left Eritrea illegally returned to Eritrea, he or she would

be detained for a short period of time, i.e. a couple of days or one week, and then re-enrolled in National

Service. As an additional punishment, they could be sent off to duties at military posts near the Ethiopian

border.

Shoot-to-kill

The International organisation had no hard facts concerning the so-

alled shoot-to-kill o de to E it ea

soldiers at the border to Ethiopia.

Agriculture

Land tenure in Eritrea is a small scale activity, but it provides an income to the many small farmers. All land

is government owned and this ensures that land grabbing does not exist in Eritrea. The government is dis-

tributing the land to avoid that the more well-to-do gradually acquire all the good land while the less fortu-

nate would end up with the poor land. The whole agricultural sector is based on small scale agriculture and

small plots of land.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eritrea

A number of factors must be taken into consideration when trying to understand why so many Eritreans

travel to Europe. According to the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two most important factors are

pull factors. First of all, Eritreans receive preferred treatment as they are automatically granted asylum in

Europe. A secondary effect of this is that many non-Eritreans e.g. citizen of Kenyan, Ethiopian and Djibouti

pretend to be Eritrean citizens when they apply for asylum in Europe. Secondly, the perception amongst

many young people in Eritrea is that it is easy to earn money in Europe and the economic situation in Eri-

trea is not very good for the time being. The solution is on the one hand that Europe should stop granting

asylum on a prima facie basis to all Eritreans, and on the other hand the economic situation in Eritrea must

improve making it more attractive for young Eritreans to remain in their home country.

The border question with Ethiopia remains unsolved as Ethiopia refuses to recognize the internationally

demarcated border. So far the Ethiopian non-compliance with the decision of the international society con-

cerning the border issue has had no consequences and nobody be it USA, EU or AU has confronted Ethiopia

ith that. The o a , o pea e situatio is u sustai a le a d eeds to e esol ed.

At the same time Eritrea is under UN sanctions for allegedly supplying arms to al-Shabaab in Somalia de-

spite the fact that no proof has been put forward. It was argued that Eritrea has an interest in stable gov-

ernments in the region and there is no rational explanation for the accusations of arms support to al-

Shabaab. The Eritrean economy is in stagnation because of the effects from the sanctions. The country has

many resources such as minerals and a potential fishing industry. But most important is that the 30 years of

liberation struggle has cemented the notion of the state of Eritrea. Eritrea is an island of peace in the re-

gion. Different ethnic groups and adherents to different religious beliefs live together peacefully.

Commenting on the question of treatment upon return to Eritrea of citizens who have left the country ille-

gally and who have either evaded or deserted from National Service, the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs

stated that if a person has committed a crime, due process is respected. National Service evaders and de-

serters have the possibility of restoring their relations with the Eritrean government by paying the two per-

cent tax and by signing a letter of apology. This has been done by a number of people and they have re-

turned to Eritrea without any complications.

A lot of misinformation about Eritrea is in circulation. Ethiopia and some Diaspora societies are responsible

for the distorted and wrong image Eritrea has had abroad. Some international human rights organisations

have published extremely critical reports on the human rights situation in Eritrea despite the fact that they

have never set foot in the country and they rely heavily on biased sources of information. It was admitted

that E it ea has so e hu a ights issues, ut o ou t i ludi g E it ea is

pe e t lea . But E

trea should not be blamed for imaginary human rights violations made up by its adversaries. One of the real

issues is the open-ended National Service. National Service is being discussed in the government but when

it will undergo changes is impossible to state. The Eritrean government and the EU and the embassies of

the European countries are in an ongoing and constructive dialogue where the parties take turns choosing

the topics for discussion. National Service will definitely be taken up.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

UN agency

Nationality identification

It was acknowledged by a UN agency that there is a possibility that maybe one out of ten UNHCR registered

refugees in the Shire camps in northern Ethiopia could be from other nationalities, including Somalis, Suda-

nese or any other tribes with similar features. It is extremely difficult to establish the nationality of asylum

applicants who claim to come from Eritrea as they share the same language and culture with various

groups in the region right across the borders.

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

Basically, the vast majority of the people who leave Eritrea do so for two reasons. The first reason is that

the poor economic situation in Eritrea has led many to look to Europe for a better life. The second reason is

the National Service program in Eritrea. The uncertainty concerning the duration of the service together

with the low salary make many young people look for alternatives to spending several years working for a

meager pay. Hardly anyone leaves Eritrea for political reasons.

National Service

The available country of origin information concerning National Service as well as other human rights relat-

ed issued is published by international human rights organisations that have never been in Eritrea and they

base their information primarily on statements from Eritreans who have left the country.

Until the border question is resolved and the relations with Ethiopia have been normalized, it is difficult to

discuss reforms of the National Service program. Before the 1998-2000 war, people gladly entered National

Service. But that was before the National Service became opened-ended. The government apparently

found it preferable to have people occupied in National Service than to let them loose facing limited em-

ployment in the private sector. If a significant number of people in National Service are to be demobilized,

there should be a disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration program, to find alternatives for the

youth, but the government does not have the money for that kind of large scale programs. UN agencies are

approaching partners to start youth program to support, youth employment, income generating activities,

micro credit and vocational training by rehabilitating the youth centers across the country. This will create

alternatives to indefinite youth service and possibly normalize the service to the usual two years.

National Service evaders and deserters are maybe penalized if apprehended, but it was doubted that they

are actually imprisoned. It was added that the government does not consider emigrants as traitors.

Economy/policy

The situation in Eritrea from independence in 1991 to the border conflict with Ethiopia in 2000 could be

ha a te ized as a ho e oo pe iod. The e o o

as oo i g a d elatio s to Ethiopia e e good.

There was a widespread feeling of self-reliance and the country was moving fast forward. Since 2000, Eri-

trea has been a limping country. The economy could easily improve with the discovery of minerals if other

factors like the security situation get better. The war led to situation where the Constitution and the par-

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

liament have been suspended and different institutions are yet to be established for example the human

rights commission and others

Since the last war with Ethiopia from 1998 to 2000, Eritrea has been preoccupied with security and the

economy has become paralyzed. Ports are not operational, the electricity supply is not reliable with con-

stant power cuts, and business activities are declining and unemployment increasing. The Eritrean govern-

ment became increasingly paranoid with security concerns. Then came the international border decision

hi h Ethiopia did ot o pl ith a d the status of o a , o pea e et ee the t o ou t ies eat-

ed more uncertainty. On top of that, UN imposed sanctions justified with the allegation that Eritrea sup-

plied arms to al-Shabaab in Somalia. The reaction from the Eritrean government was to retreat into the

corner and stay away from any international cooperation. Consequently, the Eritrean government almost

closed down,

the UN as a out to lose do , NGO s e e lea i g a d so e e assies e e o i g out

of Eritrea.

In 2013-2014, the UN and the government renewed their relationship after a long time of negotiations,

they agreed on the future cooperation and the UN is now able to stay in Eritrea after signing the coopera-

tion agreement (SPCF).

On the sanctions issue, Eritrea has been asked lately to allow the visit of the monitoring group, however,

the E it ea go e

e t elie es that the UN So alia E it ea Mo ito i g G oup set up to o ito E it ea s

compliance with the UN resolutions concerning alleged support to al-Shabaab, is actually promoting a re-

gime change in Eritrea and the government has no trust in the monitoring group. Recently, a letter by one

of the experts in the group openly talking of regime change did not help. It is understood that since then,

the expert has been asked by the UN to resign

The E it ea go e

e t s u de sta di g of hu a ights is oade tha the a o pe eptio of li iti g

human rights to only political and civic rights. For the Eritreans, human rights emphasis is on food, health

and education more than political civic rights. It is possible that while engaging Eritrea if the conversations

start from where they feel comfortable and also from their engagement with the universal periodic review

in Geneva (UPR) in which they are actively participating, may be the next steps in tackling the issues on

human rights could be possible. It would be good to have a two track approach where discussions on the

UPR continue while advocating for Eritrea to respect different other council decisions. Respecting this dif-

ference may make it possible to engage in a constructive dialogue with the Eritrean government consider-

ing that the government has accepted some recommendations in the UPR process.

The government is very cautious of liberalization; opening up too much may bring other problems like cor-

ruption and other malice. It is worrying to note that already there is a black market for fuel and currency

exchange.

The disagreement concerning the border conflict with Eritrea is highly placed between the top leaders. The

peoples of Eritrea and Ethiopia have grievances since they fought against each other but these can be over-

come. It was added that if Eritrea returned to IGAD [Intergovernmental Authority on Development] the

organisation could play a constructive role.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Both countries could be considered oases of stability but the two countries should be made to reconcile. It

is possible if initiative is taken by someone or some people that they both trust, maybe a conversation be-

tween them can start. Eritrea and Ethiopia are important for the regional political and security situation.

Eritrea, because it is at the red sea and keeps strong security for the sea, it does not tolerate fundamental-

ism and therefore could be a good partner.

Especially it [Eritrea] can influence regional stability. Ethiopia is also a big country with a big market playing

a great role in supporting [the fight against] fundamentalism. For the two countries to play a meaningful

role to regional peace, they must be at peace with each other. At least they should not do anything to de-

stabilize each other or resume conflict. Once each of them is carrying on their own business, there is poten-

tial for them to cooperate again.

Education

The standard of education in Eritrea is actually not bad. But college teachers are not paid regularly making

it difficult to attract proper teachers and the relatively high standard of education will start to drop because

of lack of resources. Partners should support Eritrea in this area to allow the youth to benefit from good

education since this may reduce migration.

Prisons

A UN agency in Eritrea had no first hand information concerning Eritrean prisons and other detention facili-

ties, but the impression was that prison and detention conditions could match or be better than some oth-

er African countries. They may not be at the standard of the western countries because the whole country

is generally poor. But all [of this] is hearsay; there is no information to validate the statements because

there is no access.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Regional NGO based in Asmara

Ma t s Da is ele ated o

Ju e th oughout E it ea.

People put candle lights along the pavement so

the hole it a ea is illu i ated. Ha dl a fa il did ot lose a e e i the a . Ho e e , Ma t

Day is not a military parade; there are candle-lights, music, dancing and speakers but no guns. It is a most

beautiful and collective celebration cementing the ties among the Eritrea people, but it is also an illustra-

tio of the E it ea elite ei g p iso e s of the past . The uli g elite a e ade up of the old fighte s a d

they seem unwilling to free themselves from the experience of the liberation struggle against Ethiopia and

the 30 years of no-war, no-peace. In the time of history Eritrea has been repeatedly let down by the inter-

national community and the country did not receive much support during the liberation struggle or later

on. For that reason a concept of self-reliance developed and the ruling elite is partly still stuck in that con-

cept. The wars with Ethiopia provide excuse for everything e.g. the suspension of the Constitution and the

pa lia e t. As o e ou g a said the a e ele ati g the past, ut hat a out the p ese t a d futu e?

The young generation does not see any future in Eritrea

a d the pe eptio of the g ass is g ee e else-

he e pa ti ula l i Eu ope is ide-spread

among the young generations in Eritrea. It was added that all

countries in the Horn region are dysfunctional in varying degrees and all have human rights and other is-

sues, so Eritrea is not the only country in which human rights violation are particular serious or common.

Religion

The government and the people of Eritrea do not hide their differences. They celebrate the nine ethnic

groups and the main religious groups. It is both official policy as well as social tradition there is always a

church next to a mosque. Officially, all established religious groups are recognized in Eritrea, but when radi-

cal Islamic Jihadists attacked Eritrea from bases in Sudan the government illegalized this group. The Islamic

Jihadists were responsible for beheadings of Eritrean army officers, terror attacks and other criminal activi-

ties. In July 2014 there was an attack on a hotel in Eritrea near the border to Sudan, but today the Islamic

Jihadists are still hosted by the Sudanese government inland and at a distance from the border areas and

still their camps are not dismantled but situated further into Sudan.

As a result of the activities by Islamic Jihadist, the Eritrean government is deeply concerned about all ex-

t e ist eligious/politi al a d the efo e de ided to illegalize the g oup. Jeho ah s Wit esses, the Baha i a d

the Muslim Wahhabis are all illegal in Eritrea. The Protestant Church is officially recognized in Eritrea and it

has a church in Asmara. The government is very sensitive about any issue that could create division be-

t ee the populatio s. G oups ho a e o side ed to eate di isio a e la eled f i ge g oups a d the

government does not allow them any room. The fringe groups are mostly found in Asmara.

Jeho ah s Wit esses a e o side ed a f i ge g oup ot e ause the efuse to take up a s a d e ei e

military training, but because they are considered a threat to the national unity. Previously the government

accepted

the Baha i so iet ut si e the ise i episodes ith Isla i Jihad, the go e

e t is e o sider-

i g e e thi g. Fi e o si ea s ago the e e s of the Baha i so iet ould hold a iage e e o ies i

privacy and it was tolerated by the authorities. If that happened today they would be arrested.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

National Service

Approximately five or six years ago there was a much stricter recruitment procedure to the National Ser-

vice. At that time people in the National Service age were being stopped in police ID checks in the streets or

collected by soldiers if they did not show up when called in. However, during the last five to six years there

has been a relaxation in recruitment procedures and one does not see soldiers undertaking round-ups of

people into National

Se i e a lo ge . The ha ge i the go e

e t s poli ega di g Natio al Se i e

is a real change because there is an increasing understanding of the problem with the open-ended service

and the way it affects the young generation.

The government and the ruling party have to some degree realized that something has to be done regard-

ing the exodus of people from Eritrea. In the last three years there has been recognition that young people

are needed for in Eritrea and that the exodus has reached a level that could threaten the economy of the

country. Since last year there has been consent within the ruling party to deal with the problem and rumor

has it that the government is considering returning to the original and 18 months of National Service that is

stipulated by the law. The problem is both the open-ended service within the National Service, and the

ge e al elief a o g ou gste s that the pastu e is g ee e o the othe side of the fe e. I so e ases

people have been working in the National Service in the ministries, in government garages or as technicians

for eight or more years for a petty salary of 600 Nakfa per month (about 28 Euros).

The source of information explained that he has an employee who was released from National Service after

six years. The employee had worked in a government owned garage as a mechanical for those years. His

monthly salary was 500 Nakfa. He is now free to take up whatever job he may find, and he can apply for a

passport and an exit-visa should he wish to go abroad. Theoretically, the National Service is 18 months, but

in reality it could be much longer. Initially, everyone who is recruited to the National Service will be after

attending Sawa camp. It was emphasized that Sawa is not a military camp, but is basically the final two

years of high school for students from all over the country with about 22 thousand students. The students

receive academic classes, some physical training and they learn to march in formation, but they receive no

training in using arms as such. Those who graduate with merits from the Sawa camp may take up university

studies and they are exempted from National Service. Those who do less well in school continue with Na-

tional Service and they will do their services at various government institutions, hotels, factories, garages,

and as teachers in schools etc. or in the military.

The Eritrean government has stated that it has accepted and fully implemented the International Border

Commission ruling in accordance with the Algier Agreement signed with Ethiopia and witnessed by UN and

all major world powers. However, Ethiopia has not implemented the agreement. For that reason Eritrea is

i a state of o a , o pea e ith its southe

eigh o .

The information in human right reports about ill-treatment in the National Service is more often than not

exaggerated. People in National Service are not overworked or working under slave-like conditions, they

are not beaten, subjected to torture or suffer from malnutrition. There is no obvious discrimination be-

tween men and women. Also about two years ago it was decided that women should have the right to un-

dertake their duties within their home district. That privilege is not shared by men.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Penalty for evasion and desertion

The penalty for desertion and evasion from National Service is not well documented, and there is no clear

code of procedure or jurisprudence. The penalty may vary depending on who you are and where you are

serving your National Service, i.e. desertion from critical sectors such as the fire brigade would probably be

considered a more serious offence than deserting from work in a government run garage or the Ministry of

Agriculture. No-one will be killed or punished physically by beatings, rape or other forms of human rights

violations. In recent years the most likely penalty for desertion from National Service would be detention

for three to four months particularly for women.

Those who desert or evade National Service and who are caught on their way out of the country are

brought to detention camps where they will stay here for three to six months. They will then be released

u o ditio all . The a e ot etu ed to Natio al Se i e as the a e ega ded as otte apples

the

authorities. The authorities want to keep deserters away from people who are in the National Service to

prevent the deserters from exercising a bad influence on others. It was emphasized that the conditions in

detention camps are much better that conditions in regular prisons, and the conditions in the detention

camps

a ot e said to iolate the i ates asi ights. P iso o ditio s a e e tough i E it ea, ut

there are no reports of sexual abuses, beatings and torture in the prisons. Every prisoner is given four loafs

of bread per day as well as beans or lentils.

There have been reports by international NGOs on relatives of National Service deserters or evaders having

been forced to undertake National Service on behalf of deserters or evaders. However, such incidents are

not documented and it is definitely not a government stand or policy to retaliate against parents or other

family members of National Service evaders or deserters. If such treatment occurred relatives would tell

about it.

Shoot-to-kill

The shoot-to kill-policy at the border to Ethiopia reported by international NGOs does not exist any longer,

if it ever has been practiced. The source has never heard of this being a policy at the border and he has

never heard of someone being shot while trying to get to Ethiopia. Instead, relatives share the news when

individuals reach a neighboring country as they receive phone calls from community members and extend-

ed family.

UN sanctions

There is no proof that Eritrea was behind provision of weapons to al-Sha

aa i So alia. The sou e s

friends in Eritrea are of a similar opinion. However, it is true that Somalia was very supportive of Eritrea

during its struggle for independence. Somalia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and the UAE were the closest

supporters of Eritrea, and Eritrea is obligated to these countries, especially Somalia and Sudan. But Eritrea

did not support al-Shabaab; the only support to Somalia was accommodation of participants at peace-

conferences and the organisation of conferences. Even the UN has unofficially recognized that there is no

solid evidence of Eritrean arm supplies to al-Shabaab. Eritrea has no planes, ships that could carry arms to

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

al-Shabaab and the country has no land borders to Somalia. In addition, both France and the USA have

large surveillance stations in Djibouti that could easily pick up information about Eritrean arms being trans-

ported to al-Shabaab if that had taken place.

Illegal exit/returns

Three years ago Egypt returned a large number of Eritreans by plane. The returnees had been arrested by

the Egyptian authorities on the border to Israel and they were deported to Eritrea. Egypt filled up several

commercial planes each carrying more than 150 passengers. Upon arrival in Eritrea the women were free to

enter Eritrea while the men were taken to a detention camp for questioning on why they had left Eritrea.

The men were detained for approximately two weeks after which they were free to return to their own

communities. However, only half a dozen or so were tried at the criminal court for perceived illegal eco-

nomic activities.

The Eritrean government is at last increasingly aware that there is a problem with the youth. In other coun-

tries in the region the governments do not bother about them. There is no country in the Horn of Africa

where everything is perfect, but Eritrea and Ethiopia are is the only two countries in the region which has a

national idea, project or vision. Unfortunately, the war between them has damaged that idea or vision.

National Service in Eritrea is more an expression of a dysfunctional society than a blatant violation of hu-

man rights. All countries in the region are dysfunctional in varying and many respects, but to label Eritrea as

Af i a s No th Ko ea is o pletel

o g. The go e

e t a d the uli g pa t a e i te ested i i te

tional issues, the de

elop e ts i the egio s ou t ies, has effe ti el o t i uted to pea e effo ts i

Darfur, Eastern and South Sudan, and the country is opening up for the outside world.

The country is unique in the Horn of Africa region in that it is safe, with no crime to speak of and no corrup-

tion

–

in clear difference from most other capitals in Africa.

Freedom of movement

There is complete freedom of movement for everyone in Eritrea without road blocks. Citizens do not have

to register in hotels and only foreigners have to obtain a travel permit and register at hotels. Three or four

years ago there were some checkpoints near the border to Sudan. The purpose of these checkpoints was to

clamp down on contraband from Sudan. The checkpoints have now been removed.

Any Eritrean can cross the border to Sudan on his or her ID-card (except those who are doing their National

Service must obtain an exit visa). There is no need for a passport to enter Sudan. However, one has to be a

genius to find out where the border is as it is not demarcated. The border to Sudan is more than 1,000 km

long and people just cross on foot or on donkeys.

ID cards

All Eritreans above the age of 18 are issued national ID-cards regardless of where in Eritrea they live.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Well-known Eritrean intellectual

Diaspora

A well-known Eritrean intellectual explained that he is an Eritrean national, but he also holds a passport of a

Eu opea ou t . He etu ed f o Eu ope to E it ea i the late

s. It is ot possi le to de ou e

o e s E it ea atio ality

despite having obtained a nationality abroad. Dual citizenship is recognized in

Eritrea.

The source explained that he travels freely in and out of Eritrea on his Eritrean passport, but he needs an

exit visa each time because of his Eritrean passport and citizenship. It is unproblematic for Eritreans who

are living abroad or Eritreans who has a dual citizenship to obtain an exit visa in Eritrea. Previously, it was

much harder to get an exit visa, but about two years ago regulations were changed, thus making things

much easier. The source added that he has an Eritrean ID-card.

The source explained that persons who left Eritrea illegally can return to their country without fearing any

consequences. According to the law illegal exit is penalized, but the government has a somewhat relaxed

a est attitude to a d su h people a d i ealit the a e ot pe alized. The easo fo this ela ed

attitude is that the government wants people to return to Eritrea. Such persons have to pay the two per-

cent income tax and sign an apology letter. Having done this no one will be arrested upon return. In addi-

tion such persons will not be recruited to the National Service. The source explained that he has a close

relative living abroad and this relative has been visiting Eritrea repeatedly after having paid the two percent

tax and signed an apology letter. The relative can travel in and out of Eritrea without consequences.

National Service

I the late

s the Natio al Se i e as ot ope

-ended. The period of National Service was then 18

months. However, when the war with Ethiopia began one would be called in for service until the war was

over. It was added that reporting by international NGOs on National Service has been exaggerated, espe-

cially the reporting on arrests of young people who have evaded or deserted from the service.

During the border war with Ethiopia and even afterwards, i.e. in times of tension National Service could last

for up to more than 10 years. But now National Service usually lasts for between three to five years.

Penalty for evasion/desertion

It was emphasized that it would be incorrect to judge Eritrea on the basis of the situation in rich Western

countries. It is important to understand the Eritrean context. Eritrea cannot behave like European coun-

tries, and there have been lots of problems, including human rights problems, in Eritrea. However, it is un-

realistic to expect Eritrea to match international standards, including human rights standards. There are

examples of deserters who have been arrested and imprisoned in Eritrea, but in general everyone knows

what to do and not to do when it comes to National Service. The source added that he knows of a student

who deserted the National Service and was arrested. The student was transferred to the Sawa camp to

complete his National Service. After that he returned to his studies. Many government officials, teachers,

nurses etc. are returning to their jobs after having served at the National Service.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Western embassy (A)

Human rights reporting

A Western embassy (A) explained that the public available human rights reporting regarding Eritrea is ra-

ther old. The more recent reports seem to recycle outdated information. In addition to that, even the UN

special rapporteur had limited access to reliable sources of information and consequently had to rely ex-

tensively on interviewing Eritrean refugees outside of Eritrea.

National Service

The mainstream human rights reports are describing a situation in Eritrea facing National Service evaders

and deserters that is no longer representing the real situation. The situation has changed to the better.

Evaders and deserters are not imprisoned for a protracted period of time and they are not exposed to phys-

ical harm.

Ordinary people who evade the National Service or desert from the service are not being prosecuted and

imprisoned and they are not at risk of disappearances. That kind of treatment is reserved for people who

have had some kind of oppositional activities i.e. political prisoners. It was emphasized that the govern-

ment does not consider National Service evaders or deserters as political opponents. The change in the

go e

e t s attitude to a ds e ig a ts has ot ee e og ized hu a ights

organisations and it has

not yet been reflected in any of the available human rights reports on Eritrea.

Round-ups

Concerning rumors of round up of young people who have evaded or deserted from National Service the

Western embassy (A) stated that it had heard of such round-ups in villages out in the country. The USA

travel advice warns US citizens of Eritrean origin of the risk of round-ups because of recent reports.

People s A

Re e tl the go e

e t a ou ed a all up fo ilita t ai i g i the People s A

. The e is o fu the

information about this. However, the People

s A

ilitia o sists of people i the fo ties a d fifties ho

have been demobilized from the National Service. The militia has been established in order to bring a part

of the population into the security apparatus and the protection of the state. After the January 2013 at-

te pted ilita

oup

- the circumstances in that event are not clear -

the People s A

as estab-

lished. So e see the People s A

as the P eside t s atte pt to e less depe de t o the a

. Ho e e ,

it is doubtful that the President should have any fear of a real threat against him.

Diaspora visits

Many members of the Eritrean Diaspora have been recognized as political refugees in Europe and many of

these people travel to Eritrea on visits and they leave the country again legally without experiencing any

kind of problems. However, prior to such visits in Eritrea they have to pay the two percent Diaspora tax and

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

sign an apology letter whereby they restore their relations with the Eritrean government. It is probably not

true that people who have done so are at risk of being detained upon arrival in Eritrea.

In June 2014 the Swedish air carrier Fly Olympic went bankrupt leaving approximately 400 Eritreans with

Swedish passports stranded in Asmara. The majority of the stranded passengers had originally left Eritrea

illegally and had either evaded or deserted from National Service. It took some time to organize new tick-

ets, but eventually they were all able to fly back to Sweden. It is not known if they had restored their rela-

tions with the government by paying the two percent tax and by signing an apology letter, but they were all

allowed to leave Eritrea.

ID cards

Eritrean citizens are probably required to carry their national ID card at all times, but it was stressed that

Eritreans can travel freely throughout the country.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Western embassy (B)

Diaspora

According to a Western embassy (B), approximately 50% of all extended families in Eritrea have a family

member living abroad. Going abroad has been a tradition since at least World War II. Thus, a well-

established network between the Diaspora and families in Eritrea has been in operation since then.

The t o pe e t i o e ta le ied o

e e s of the Diaspo a is o side ed a eha ilitatio ta

the

government intended to help financing the rebuilding of the country. It should be remembered that other

countries charge their citizen fees for issuance documents such as passports as well.

Emigration patterns

Since 2013 there has been an increase in the numbers of Eritreans leaving Eritrea. The major cause for this

is the so-

alled Ma e Nost u , i.e. the Italia a s ope atio s he e as lu seeke s a e ei g pi ked up

in the Mediterranean Sea and transported to Italy safely. Thus, it has become much easier and safer for

asylum seekers to cross the Mediterranean and get to Italy, many of whom are Eritrean nationals. The big-

gest risk to their lives is the way through Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya. In addition to that close to 100% of all

Eritreans are granted asylum in Europe.

According to a Western embassy (B), 99.9% of all Eritrean asylum seekers in Europe are economic refugees.

The extended families, which may comprise 50 persons, merge their savings in order for them to send a

bright young relative, usually a man, to Europe. It is an investment and it is expected that the young man

will send remittances back to his family in Eritrea. As long as the family knows that he will be granted asy-

lum, they will not hesitate to send him off. But if the outcome was not given, the family would think twice

before they send the young man to Europe. It was emphasized that the human rights situation in Eritrea is

no worse than in most other African countries and poverty in Eritrea is not worse than in other African

countries. There are no mass violations of human rights in Eritrea, and European countries do not grant

protection to everyone from Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic or

Egypt. In this respect, it could be argued that the Eritrean government has a point when it states that Eri-

trean asylum applicants received preferential treatment in Europe.

e ti g o No a s e e t poli to a ds E it ea as lu seeke s,

the Western embassy (B) stated

that the Norwegian announcement of a possible return agreement with Eritrea had a huge psychological

effect and it effectively drove down the number of Eritrean asylum seekers in Norway. That happened de-

spite the fact that no one has been deported from Norway and despite the fact that though Eritrea accepts

voluntary returns, especially when the returnees are given some money, it does not accept forced returns.

It was added that Eritrea will not give assurances regarding human rights and it will not allow European

countries to monitor unsuccessful asylum seekers who have been returned to Eritrea.

National Service

Eritrea is up against a powerful enemy. Ethiopia has much better international relations than Eritrea, and

lack of military equipment has forced Eritrea to establish a National Service program which encompasses all

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

able-bodied citizens between the age of 18 and 50 at some time in their lives. Apart from the defense of

the state, National Service has a civilian dimension as many in the service work in ministries, and in public

construction projects such as building of dams, roads and bridges. However, the few years spent in National

Service may imply that it is very difficult for many people to plan for their lives. It would be a great step in

the right direction if the Eritrean government would clarify precisely how long time one has to serve in the

National Service. So far this has not happened, but one cannot fairly say that Eritrean government is re-

sponsible for mass violations of human rights.

Regarding the duration of National Service a Western embassy (B) explained that there are no written laws

egulati g this. Natio al Se i e is a e fogg issue, a d he o e ill e eleased f o Natio al Se i e,

i.e. de o ilized, depe ds e

u h o o e s spe ifi skills a d the i di idual e plo e . Ho e e , the e

are indications that young people are now released from National Service after a shorter period of service

than was previously the case.

Propaganda

The embassy (B) emphasized that Eritrea has fallen victim to a massive propaganda campaign from other

countries, especially Ethiopia and its allies, as well as from the Diaspora and Eritrean asylum seekers. Hu-

man rights reports from international NGOs either lack knowledge of Eritrea or they are part of the propa-

ganda against the country. The human rights situation in Eritrea is not as bad as it has been described. It

was added that reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International are mostly based on sources

outside of Eritrea, especially parts of the Diaspora including asylum seekers and refugees.

It was reiterated by the Western embassy (B) that only very few Eritreans have genuine reasons for claim-

ing political asylum abroad. If the Western European countries do not halt its policies of granting asylum

automatically to more or less all Eritrean asylum seekers they will see a steady increase in the number of

Eritreans coming to Europe. When Eritreans hear that their sisters and brothers are being granted asylum in

Europe they will soon decide to go as well, and Europe will see a huge increase of Eritrean asylum seekers

in the time to come.

Political prisoners/evaders/deserters

Regarding reports that approximately 10,000 persons are imprisoned in Eritrea for various reasons the

Western embassy (B) stated that this figure is grossly exaggerated. Eritrea is not worse than most other

African countries. It is the same story everywhere, and no-one can tell what happens in any place and any

country in Africa. Concerning the reports on the 10,000 prisoners in Eritrea, the Western embassy stated

that all the international reports published by various international NGOs quote or copy each other and

they are mainly based on statements from Eritrean refugees who are not the best sources of reliable in-

formation. It is a fact that Eritrea has no capacity to take care of 10,000 prisoners irrespective of whether

they are imprisoned for political or criminal reasons, not to mention draft evaders and deserters. Eritrea is

victim of a huge propaganda war.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

The Western embassy (B) would not exclude that a National Service evader or deserter would be detained,

but this would be for symbolic reasons rather than for legal reasons. The authorities would prefer to state

an example rather than detain evaders and deserters systematically. It was added that the authorities are

turning a blind eye to many of those who for various reasons evade or desert National Service because they

are needed during harvest time or for other reasons. Detention of individual National Service evaders and

deserters is purely to show the people who is in charge in Eritrea, i.e. the ruling party. Detained evaders

and deserters are normally released after a few days, and as an additional punishment they are sent off to

duties at military posts near the Ethiopian border. It was added that many evaders and deserters would

most likely have preferred to stay in detention rather than be deployed to the border areas. It was added

that even if the government wanted to arrest and prosecute evaders and deserter, it does not have the

capacity to do so.

The authorities could apply some pressure on the family of a deserter in order to persuade him or her to

etu to his o k. This p essu e applied ould e too lose the fa il s shop o eje tio of so e li e se

e.g. to keep a shop. The go e

e t s i te est is ot to i p iso evaders

or deserters but to have them

work for the country.

Illegal e it/ Shoot to kill

Rega di g the shoot-and-kill poli applied i the o de egio s to Ethiopia a Weste e ass B stated

that there could be anecdotal reports about someone having been shot near the border. However, such

stories are most likely not true as it is hard to believe that Eritrean soldiers would shoot at a fellow citizen.

The government wants to stop the exodus from Eritrea, but not by shooting those attempting to leave via

the border to Ethiopia. Instead, it has begun to open up to the international society in order to find a viable

solution to the problem.

Many Eritrean refugees are indebted to their traffickers and agents when they arrive in Europe. Some may

have a debt of between 3,000 and 20,000 US$. The Western embassy (B) found it very unlikely that the

debt could be as high as 40,000 US$ as some sources have stated.

The Western embassy (B) stated that the usual price for sending a person to Europe varies a lot, but it can

be fixed between 5.000 and 10.000US$. The maximum amount of money paid for the travel is approxi-

mately 25,000 USD which would include travel in a Land Cruiser and VIP treatment.

Agriculture/economy

A Western embassy (B) explained that there is a small private sector in Eritrea. Everything is regulated by

the state and people need licenses for everything. In addition, there is a lack of energy and the water sup-

ply is insufficient. The Nakfa is not convertible which is not conducive for foreign investments. The young

generation who did not fight in the liberation war are less nationalistic than the older generation, and they

find that Eritrea has very little to offer in terms of a better life. There is not really a free labor market in

Eritrea as the government is controlling the National Service. Thus the economic climate is very dry and this

is another push factor in Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

There are national companies which buy part of the harvest at fixed prices. It is very difficult for the farmers

themselves to transport their harvest to markets in the cities. All land in Eritrea is owned by the govern-

ment, but it is the farmers themselves who till the land and who earn their living from the land. The indi-

vidual farming families help each other with ploughing and harvesting. Harvest is a time-consuming activity

as it is done by hand.

Corruption is almost absent in Eritrea and the lowest in all of Africa. Even government ministers live at the

poverty level.

When asked why people in Eritrea are not protesting against the rather poor living conditions, i.e. lack of

economic prospects as well as the daily struggle to get by because of rising fuel prices, lack of electricity

and so on, a Western embassy (B) explained that Eritreans are a proud and decent people, and they do not

rebel against their own government, they only want jobs, education and social welfare. It was added that

the revolution and the war against Ethiopia is an important part of the curriculum in the Eritrean education

system. However, people have reached a point where they are so fed up with the situation that if Eritrea

was invaded by Ethiopia, people would probably accept that without too much opposition.

Most of the young people in Eritrea are wearing modern western clothes, especially in Asmara and other

cities. These clothes and shoes are not produced locally. They are almost exclusively sent to Eritrea by peo-

ple in the Diaspora. There is a cloth factory in Asmara, owned partly by an Italian company and partly by

the Eritrean government. This factory employs a large number of workers etc. Those employed at the facto-

ry are not in the National Service.

Freedom of movement

There is freedom of movement for all citizens in Eritrea. People can go wherever they want and they do not

need a travel permit (as foreigners do). There are no limitations, except for some military zones close to the

borders. Previously there was a risk of being questioned or arrested when travelling across the country, but

for the last two years there have been no such incidents. The country is now opening up and the govern-

ment is less paranoid. It was added that another reason for the absence of checkpoints and police forces is

due to the fact that Eritrea cannot afford to pay salaries to security and police forces. Thus, the security

apparatus is slowly breaking up. The soldiers who used to man the checkpoints are now put in work else-

where. The attempted coup in January 2013 illustrates the point. Armed vehicles came from Senafe 120 km

from Asmara without being stopped or attacked. No one reacted. That is not a security apparatus that is

able to suppress an entire population.

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Western embassy (C)

A Western embassy (C) estimated that somewhere between three million and three and a half million peo-

ple live in Eritrea. No reliable official figure exits.

A Western embassy (C) stated that recently the Eritrean government has shown a greater inclination to

engage with the international community after isolating itself for many years. Two examples include: the

AU-sponsored Regional Conference on Human Trafficking and Smuggling in the Horn of Africa held in Khar-

toum and the renewed cooperation with the EU both in implementation of the European Development

Fund programme and over migration issues.

Figures and estimates

An increasing number of Eritreans are leaving Eritrea. Based on known numbers registering with the

UNHCR in neighbouring countries, and an estimate for those who did not register, it was assessed that up

to between 5,000 and 10,000 Eritreans leave the country every month. Approximately 5% of the Eritreans

who applied for asylum in the Western country (C) presented a passport and a visa

–

the remainder of asy-

lum applicants had entered the country clandestinely.

A Western embassy (C) considered that the answer to the question why so many Eritreans suddenly decid-

ed to apply for asylum in Denmark lies in Europe rather than in Eritrea. It was added that Sweden, Norway,

Germany and United Kingdom all have significant Eritrean Diaspora communities and these countries have

traditionally been destination country for Eritrean asylum applicants.

A Western embassy (C) stated that the recent increase in the number of Eritrean asylum applicants in

Denmark could be closely related to the fact that the Norwegian Deputy Justice Minister visited Eritrea in

June 2014. According to press reports the discussions were related to the issue of repatriation to Eritrea of

approximately 500 Eritreans. Following that visit the number of Eritrean asylum applicants in Norway de-

creased. It is likely that some of the Eritrean asylum applicants have shifted their intended destination from

Norway to other countries such as Denmark.

Push factors

According to a Western embassy (C) the main driving forces behind the outflow of Eritreans is not limited

to the National Service program in Eritrea. Poor education prospects as well as poverty combined with the

hope for a better future abroad are the major reasons why Eritreans decide to go abroad. It was clarified

that Eritrea actually has a fairly high standard of education and the country has a reasonable skilled labor

force, but the problem is that unemployment is high. It was added that Eritrea despite its expressive focus

on self-reliance is a food deficit country that needs to import food to feed its population. In some rural are-

as humanitarian assistance is needed and malnutrition is a serious problem especially amongst children.

A Western embassy (C) emphasized that the two main reasons why Eritreans leave their country in high

numbers is the stagnant economy as well as a reluctance to perform National Service for a protracted peri-

od of time. The young aspirant Eritrean men are looking for a better life in Europe or North America be-

cause the options they have in Eritrea for the moment are very limited.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

National Service

A Western embassy (C) stated that all Eritreans at the age of 17 years go to Sawa for the 11

and final year

of schooling. For six months they receive some physical and military training as an integral part of the final

year in school. That is why many young people are found in the refugee camps in Ethiopia.

A Western embassy (C) explained that when the exam results are ready after 11

grade in Sawa it is decid-

ed which students have qualified for tertiary education. These students do not perform additional military

training apart from the six months of physical and military training that is an integral part of the 11

year in

school in Sawa. Instead, on completion of their higher or further education, they perform national service

in a civilian capacity in a profession linked to their qualification

–

for example an engineer might work in the

Department of Public Works, an accountant in a state-owned bank or financial institution.

A este e ass C e plai ed that the go e

e t s justifi atio fo the

National Service is the unset-

tled situatio ith Ethiopia a d the o pea e, o a status et ee the t o ou t ies. If that is the ase

it could be argued that the compulsory enlistment of people into National Service is not a violation of the

fundamental human rights, not even if the service is indefinite and including people at old age. However,

there is no possibility of conscientious objection to the National Service in Eritrea, nor is there a possibility

of performing an alternative service by choice. Furthermore, it seems to be arbitrary when people are re-

leased or demobilized from National Service, whether from a military or civilian role, after serving the ob-

ligatory 18 months. In practice people would apply to their employer or military commander for demobili-

zation. If he or she approves the recommendation to demobilize a person, the recommendation would be

sent to the central authorities for final approval. But the guidance on what reasons would justify a recom-

mendation for demobilisation are internal only and in reality a large part of the decision to demobilize peo-

ple is left to the individual employer or military commander. It was added that National Service is not really

indefinite, but when it ends is arbitrary.

A Western embassy (C) had heard of people in their forties who were still in National Service, but in general

three to four years of National Service seemed to be norm today. The problem is that the government and

state owned companies have become dependent on the National Service labor force because of the low

wages. As a consequence of the low wages, people working in National Service are often not too motivated

and they often do not show for work.

A Western embassy (C) stated that some demobilized people stay in the same work as they were during the

National Service but being paid a regular wage. However, most people would leave their old jobs and look

for work in other places. The salary during the obligatory 18 months of National Service is mere 500 Nakfa

per month which is just pocket money. After the 18 months the salary increases to a maximum of 1,500

Nakfa per month, depending on the role. In comparison a gardener working for the embassy would receive

3,500 Nakfa per month. It was added that government ministers according to unconfirmed information are

paid 4,000 Nakfa per month. In reality, Eritrean society is very egalitarian and especially the older genera-

tion has a very strong community feeling. However, it is less likely that the young generation shares that

feeling to the same extent.

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A western embassy (C) stated that National Service draft evaders and deserters who have left Eritrea illegal-

ly can choose to regularize their relationship with the government by signing an apology letter and by pay-

ing a two percent Diaspora tax. By doing so they will be issued an Eritrean passport and they can enter the

country legally for family visits or other purposes. Paying the two percent Diaspora tax is a prerogative for

obtaining an exit visa in order to leave Eritrea again. National Service evaders and deserters are not pun-

ished upon return to Eritrea if they have regularized their status in this way. It was added that almost all

Eritreans have a very strong sentiment of their nation and belonging to Eritrea. That is why many Eritreans

who have once left the country illegally wish to be able to return home at some point.

A Western embassy (C) had never heard of any sort of retributions or reprisals by the Eritrean authorities

against family members of National Service evaders or deserters.

Political opposition

According to a Western embassy (C) some political opponents to the government or openly critics who are

living abroad are definitely too afraid of reprisals by the Eritrean government to return home. The justice

system in Eritrea is to some extent arbitrary and there are reports of political prisoners who have died

while in prison.

A Western embassy (C) stated that the Eritrean government does detain people for political reasons, but

there is no general climate of fear similar to that found under authoritarian regimes elsewhere to detect in

the population. In private conversations people gladly criticize the government, and if they choose to keep

quiet in public that is an expression of discretion as much as than an expression of a general fear of being

exposed to reprisals for criticizing the situation in the country.

Diaspora visits

Especially during the summer the airplanes flying to and from Asmara are packed with Eritrean Diaspora

people who are coming home for holidays. Some of these people must have had some kind of conflict or

fall out with the Eritrean authorities, i.e. by evading or deserting from National Service or by exiting Eritrea

illegally. It was concluded that the ones who have a real fear of returning to Eritrea must be very outspoken

opponents or critics of the government.

People s A

A Weste e ass C stated that it had hea d u o s that the P eside t s od gua d as ade up of

some extraordinary group, but it was considered unlikely that the President would be protected by the

e l esta lished ilitia also alled the People s A

. It as added the P eside t is ot su ou ded

heavy security.

According to a Western embassy (C), even people who have been demobilized from National Service are

liable for

o ti ued se i e i the People s A

ilitia. The go e

e t has dist i uted Kalash iko ifles

to members of the militia to keep at home. The militia members are required to show once a month or

every second week for physical training and at times are called to actual military training. As an example a

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

local embassy staff did not show for work one morning and it turned out that the staff member had been

assigned a guard duty in the airport in Asmara that day. It was added that the obligation to occasional mili-

tia duties reportedly has an upper agent limit of seventy as long as people are physically fit for the duty.

Economy/education

According to a Western embassy (C), there is very little evidence of government ministers or other promi-

nent people being wealthy. Actually no one is wealthy in Eritrea. There is little evidence of corruption and

humanitarian aid workers report startling few cases of corruption.

A Western embassy (C) stated that for many countries a large Diaspora is important to the economy. The

remittances from the Diaspora are keeping the urban population in Eritrea afloat and its importance is hard

for the government to ignore. It was added that the official exchange rate is one-third of the black market

rate which means that the government in reality effectively retains two-thirds of the value of remittances

that reach Eritrea via official channels.

According to a Western embassy (C) the young generations of Eritreans do not accept the austerity that

their parents were and are ready to endure and they are not ready to make the kind of self-sacrifices that

their parents did during the liberation struggle and afterwards. The situation today between the genera-

tions who experienced the liberation struggle and the young generations has clear parallels to the youth

e ellio i Eu ope i the 6 ies o e ge e atio afte the Se o d Wo ld Wa .

A Western embassy (C) stated that the university has not been closed but the faculties have been dispersed

to several institutions of higher education around the country. In general Eritreans are greatly committed

to education.

Freedom of movement

A Western embassy (C) stated that there are very few checkpoints in Eritrea and according to the experi-

ence of the embassy, it is mostly foreigners who have their documents checked by the authorities. Eritreans

travelling by bus are usually not checked at all and the procedures at the checkpoints are very informal.

E it ea poli e a e ot e isi le. The i p essio of the e ass as that the poli e do ot shake do

people for money as is the case in many other countries in Africa. Traffic fines are paid at the police station

which illustrates that petty corruption by individual police officers is not common. Eritrean police in Asmara

are probably less corrupt than the police in other countries in the world.

Shoot-to-kill

A Weste e ass C fou d it u likel that the offi ial shoot to kill is a tuall ei g i ple e ted at the

external borders. From time to time there are rumors that people who have tried to cross the borders ille-

gally are being shot at, but these rumors have not been confirmed by credible sources. It was emphasized

that in fact many soldiers at the border to Ethiopia desert from their posts and leave Eritrea illegally.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Nationality

A Western embassy (C) found it likely that Ethiopians present themselves as Eritreans and apply for asylum

in Europe. It is very difficult to distinguish between Eritreans and Ethiopians especially if the latter are from

the Tigray region in the northern part of Ethiopia where most people share the culture and language with

the Tigray people in Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Western embassy (D)

Political prisoners

It was stated that the Eritrean government is not a gentle regime and some people are imprisoned for polit-

ical reasons though the number of political prisoners is not in the thousand. Most people who leave Eritrea

do so for economic reasons and because of the lack of livelihood opportunities and not because of political

repression.

The main problem in Eritrea is the arbitrary nature of the way the security apparatus and the justice system

work. Some people are detained and imprisoned without charges and there are reports of disappearances.

Laws are in place but they are often implemented in an obscure manner. Some laws are not published,

some are unclear and sometimes they are interpreted arbitrarily by some petty bureaucrats.

National Service

Apart from the search for a better life abroad, the main driving force for young Eritreans is the National

Service program. The National Service is unpredictable and in principle indefinite. There are reports of re-

cruitment into National Service of 40 to 50 years old people for military drills or temporary service. In some

cases they are rounded up and taken to some military barracks. In principle, National Service cannot exceed

18 months, but in reality it stretches far beyond that period of time. The main reason for this extended

National Service is that the people who are employed in government institutions and public work places

while in National Service are a very cheap labor force. In average a person in National Service is paid 15

USD per month. However, if the National Service was limited to 18 months, most people would not be able

to find ordinary employment due to the high unemployment rate in the country.

A broadly shared perception is that the government has eased its approach to National Service. Today it is

easier to be released from the service and to young people today National Service seems to be limited to a

couple of years.

The Eritrean government justifies National Service with the unresolved border dispute with Ethiopia.

Penalty for evasion and desertion

People who have evaded National Service are at risk of being identified as such. In that case, they could be

picked up and taken to the barracks to be enrolled in National Service. However, there is no information

about severe penalties for trying to evade National Service.

For at least one year there have been no reports about relatives of National Service evaders or deserters

being exposed to reprisals by the authorities. Before that there were reports that relatives of evaders and

deserters were imprisoned or enrolled in National Service instead of the evader or deserter. This change

could be attributed to either a policy

ha ge o e ause of the go e

e t s de li i g apa it to e fo e

the service. It would be technically difficult and politically unsustainable for the government to carry out

reprisals in massive numbers against relatives of National Service evaders or deserters.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

The People s A

It is i po ta t to disti guish et ee Natio al Se i e a d se i e i the ese e a

i.e. the People s

Army. National Service is obligatory to young people who reach the age of 18 years. All conscripts are taken

to SAWA where they receive six months of military training. After that it is decided how they should serve

the remaining 12 months of National Service i.e. either in the military or in a civilian job depending of the

skills and competences of the individual conscript. The old backlog of adults who have worked in the civil

service for several years is the main problem. They are often considered a valuable and cheap labor force

and employers are reluctant to assist them in being demobilized from National Service. Recently, it seems

that more and more are released from National Service after serving a shorter period of time. It was added

that the unpredictable length of National Service is considered the main reason why young people today

are unhappy with the National Service program.

People ho a e e olled i the People s A

usuall ha e o di a jo s, ut the a e pe iodi all e ui ed

to receive some military training and occasionally perform guard duties or participate in public work such

as building dams.

Economy

It is possible for some to find employment in the private sector, but it is not easy as the economy is in a

poor state. For the moment the private sector cannot accommodate jobs for the large group of young peo-

ple in Eritrea. It was added that neither the nationalized sector is able to provide ordinary employment in

hotels or factories to people if they were to be released from National Service. Some factories close down

temporarily because of lack of electricity and raw materials. As a consequence even people who have been

released from National Service often find that there is little prospect for gainful employment if staying in

Eritrea.

Diaspora visits

Many Eritreans who live abroad at some point return to Eritrea either to visit family and friends or to start

up some business or invest in some project. This includes people who have either evaded National Service

or deserted from the service. It is not completely clear in all cases what happens to National Service evad-

ers or deserters when they return to Eritrea. However, in some cases National Service evaders and desert-

ers have restored their relations to the authorities prior to their return to Eritrea by paying the two percent

Diaspora tax and by signing an apology letter. In some of these cases people have returned to Eritrea even

shortly after they evaded or deserted from the service and left the country illegally. It was emphasized that

evaders and deserters are not considered political opponents by the government and at present, there are

no reports that deserters are imprisoned or otherwise severely punished.

On one hand there is no feeling of oppression or fear to detect in the general population in Eritrea, but on

the other hand there is no press freedom and political rights are restricted. It is illustrative that the coun-

t ies offi ial a e is State of E it ea – the a e does ot i lude te s su h as de o ati o epu li .

However, not much police is visible in the cities or in the country side. It could be that some security offic-

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

ers work in the streets dressed in civilian clothes, but if that is the case one should expect to see them do-

ing ID checks or making arrests which is not the case.

Corruption

Corruption is very limited compared with other countries in the region, and it could be said that poverty is

egalitarian. There is no elite in Eritrea who has accumulated great wealth and who gladly show its wealth to

the observer. The government has a genuine intention to keep the living standards at an equal level and it

is serious in its efforts to distribute food to the parts of the country where there is a need for humanitarian

assista e. It as added that the state s e e ues ste f o the Diaspo a ta a d f o joi t e tu es

tween the state and foreign mining companies. Since 2011 the mining of gold and now copper has generat-

ed revenues to the state budget. On the other hand food import which Eritrea depends on is expensive.

The construction activities in Eritrea are limited because of the poor state of the economy. But some hous-

ing projects have been started and the Diaspora is investing money in these projects. However, the housing

that has been constructed is too expensive to ordinary people. It was added that it is possible to buy and

sell property as a private person, though the legal status of such transactions is somewhat unclear.

Recently, the Eritrean government has opened up to the world and loosened the control it exerts over its

citizens. For example there was tight control with foreign currency until two years ago. Today it is allowed

to carry up to 10,000 USD into the country and there is no obligatory declaration of foreign currency in the

airport. The government has opened up for foreign contacts, investments and joint ventures such as the

mining projects that are running or in the pipeline.

It was emphasized that to have significant economic development the government needs to change its

economic policy which in practical terms means a liberalization of the economy. The Diaspora is divided in

the question of whether or not to engage with the government in rebuilding the Eritrean economy.

Previously, the government of Eritrea was not concerned about emigration and in fact it made money from

it because of the Diaspora tax. Now the government has realized that the level of the continuous out flux of

people is unsustainable in the longer term.

According to diplomatic sources, up to one million Eritreans live in Sudan, including second- and third-

generation emigrants. Many of them are integrated into the local society and economy. There is also a size-

able number of Eritreans in South Sudan, where they work in the industry and for example the water sup-

ply sector in South Sudan is controlled by Eritreans.

Freedom of movement

To people who are demobilized or released from National Service there is complete freedom of movement

internally in Eritrea. People who are in the service would probably need some kind of approval from their

employer if they are to be sure that they can travel unhindered inside Eritrea. However, the risk of being

revealed if travelling without approval from an employer depends on the control of ordinary citizens. There

is no doubt that the government would like to control such movements, but it does not have the capacity

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

to do that effectively. ID checks when travelling between the cities are sporadic and quite lenient. It would

be the exemption to find Eritreans who have not been issued a national ID card. The government would in

some form or shape reach even remote villages through vaccination programs and subsidized food pro-

grams.

Shoot-to-kill

E it ea is i a state of o a , o pea e a d te h i all still at a ith Ethiopia. The o de et ee the

two countries is highly militarized, but nevertheless, some Eritreans cross the border illegally to Ethiopia. It

is not sure whether the Eritrean military could control the border much more efficiently, even if it wanted

to.

There have been no confirmed reports about shooting at people who were leaving the country illegally. It

cannot be excluded that individual soldiers at the borders have shot against people crossing the borders

illegally, but if there is a shoot-to-kill order

–

which the Government denies - then is not being enforced

systematically. If this was the case, it would be known through family contacts. It should be remembered

that even soldiers at the borders occasionally desert and leave the country.

Finally, it was considered that the soldiers in the border region are not likely to shoot at people who could

even be their relatives or friends.

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Western embassy (E)

Human rights reporting

Credible information about Eritrea is hard to come by and you never know what to believe and who to be-

lieve. The problem is that everybody has an axe to grind. One of the most used sources of information

about the real situation in Eritrea is refugees who have left the country. As a source of credible information

refugees are dubious sources as they are ready to say whatever will benefit them in their effort to be

granted asylum. However, it is clear that there are reasons for being disappointed with the Eritrean gov-

ernment. The Constitution has not been implemented which the government has excused with the war

against Ethiopia. The judicial system is not well functioning and people are imprisoned and released with-

out any announcements, making it difficult to monitor the human rights situation in the country.

National Service

One major push factor that explains the exodus of young Eritreans is the national service that has become

open-ended. In addition, the salary, while in national service, ranges from 80 to 450 Nakfa per month. At

the same time pull factors such as the image of a prosperous life in the West play an important role. Re-

cently CNN and other television channels broadcasted the news that Denmark is the happiest country in

the world. People in Eritrea watch this and of course they want to leave Eritrea and go there.

There is basically no organized political opposition in Eritrea and to most people human rights are limited to

access to health care and food supplies. If asked many Eritreans would say that there is a large security set-

up i the ou t

ut ou do t see a poli e i o outside of As a a. It as added that the f e ue tl

mentioned figure in human rights reports of 10,000 political prisoners in Eritrea is difficult to harmonize

with the reality on the ground. The government needs the cheap national service work force, and rather

than imprison evaders and deserters, the government choose to occasionally round them up and put them

back to work. It was added that none of the human rights NGO have set foot in Eritrea for many years and

they quote each other making it impossible to establish the original source of the information. In addition

to that human rights organisations and even the UN special rapporteur rely extensively on opposition

groups in the Diaspora as well as Eritrean asylum applicants and refugees who really cannot be considered

reliable sources of information about human rights in Eritrea.

Just a week ago a number of people in Asmara receive a notice to appear for some military training. The

majority did not show up as requested by the authorities and the ones who did show up were told to go

home because they were too few to go ahead with the training.

The governments of Eritrea and Ethiopia are trying to destabilize each other. If a formal and real peace

could be agreed, that would test the sincerity of the Eritrean government. If there was a peace, there

would be no excuse for the national service program and for not implementing the Constitution. But a

peace requires that Ethiopia hands over the area surrounding Badme, as ruled by the Eritrea-Ethiopia

Boundary Commission.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Diaspora visits

Eritreans who have left the country illegally and who may have evaded or deserted from national service

ha e the optio of etu i g ho e if the pa a fee a d sig a lette of apolog . If the pe so s elatio to

the government has been duly re-established, he or she would not be persecuted or risk reprisals upon

return to Eritrea. However, it cannot be ruled out that the government would find desertion from the mili-

tary an aggravated circumstance. But there is no specific information to support that particular concern.

It is almost impossible for young people in the age between 15 and 40 to be issued a passport in Eritrea.

However, once people have left the country illegally, it is quite easy to be issued a passport at the Eritrean

embassy in Khartoum provided that the fee i.e. the two percent Diaspora tax has been paid.

Economy

Basically, Eritrea survives economically on the remittances from the Diaspora communities in the West and

other places and everybody who has the opportunity to go to the West would rather give it a try than stay-

ing behind in Eritrea where the prospect of a better life is bleak.

A government minister in Eritrea earns 4,000 Nakfa per month, and a medical doctor earns approximately

1750 Nakfa. Various social welfare benefits for refugees in Europe is somewhere between 400 and 600

Euro which according to the official exchange rate is between 5,000 and 8,000 Nakfa.

It was added that

most Eritreans abroad make use of unofficial channel to send remittances to family and friends and by do-

ing so, the value of the money is tripled using black market exchange rates.

ID checks

Concerning ID checks it was stated that the police have no computers and access to databases are ham-

pered by frequent power cuts. It could be the case that an individual who is found without an ID card would

be held by the police for a couple of days to establish his or her national service status. It was added that

some groups are exempted from national service. These include pregnant women and women with chil-

dren, sole providers for the family, disabled people and people with health issues et cetera.

The official exchange rate is 1USD:15ERN. The unofficial or black market rate is 1USD:53ERN

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Western embassy, Khartoum (met in Asmara)

The ambassador of a Western embassy based in Khartoum gave the following impressions:

He explained that he had visited Asmara four times over the last year. A recent visit comprised a delegation

f o the e ass s ho e ountry.

The overall purpose of this visit was to gain a better understanding of

the refugee situation, including signaling to the Eritrean authorities the growing challenges stemming from

the exodus of Eritrean nationals from Eritrea to Europe. Discussions regarding this subject are ongoing.

Diaspora

Members of the Eritrean Diaspora communities often appear closely linked to their country and their fami-

lies in Eritrea. Many seem to be traveling to Eritrea and back home again.

Regarding the issuance of Eritrean travel documents at the Eritrean embassy in Khartoum, the ambassador

of a Western embassy in Khartoum mentioned that there appears to be a praxis whereby applicants for

passports, upon having paid the two percent income-tax and should they have evaded or deserted the Na-

tional Service they will also have to sign a letter of apology, may be issued an Eritrean passport. They then

appear to be able to enter and leave Eritrea.

Emigration

Possibly as many as 3,000 to 5,000 Eritreans are now leaving their country each month, and this is gradually

being realized by the Eritrean government as a problem. The government all in all seems more concerned

about the very large emigration and the consequences of this situation than it was a year ago. The sheer

volume of emigration is now so large that Eritrea risks losing a whole generation. The emigration at the

current level, if these figures are right, means that Eritrea is losing approximately one percent of its popula-

tion in one year. In addition the loss of youngsters for National Service appear to put the National Service

system under serious pressure as well as damaging the image of Eritrea abroad.

Concerning the emigration from Eritrea several pull factors as well as push factors can be identified. Im-

portant push factors are the general paucity and poverty, the open-ended National Service and the general

lack of economic development hampering socioeconomic development, especially employment and career

opportunities. These factors motivate especially young people to leave Eritrea. The pull factors are above

all the p ospe t of a ette life i Eu ope, the pe eptio that the g ass is g ee e o the othe side a d

they hope to replace the prospect of being recruited to the National Service and a very low salary for years

to come with a better socio-economic prospect in Europe.

It as e phasized that a slight ha ge i the go e

e t s attitude

seems to have occurred circa two to

t o a d a half ea s ago, o e i g E it ea s elatio s ith the i te atio al o

u it

. There was a

slightly increased willingness to engage more, on a selective basis, with some countries as well as the UN

system. This appears to be a positive shift from the previous period where the Eritrean government tended

to isolate itself even more than now. Today a very few government representatives may, in private conver-

sation, even acknowledge that the reason behind the emigration from the country is not only a matter

of pull factors but that push factors play a role as well.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

The government of Eritrea is participating in the international conference in Khartoum and has engaged in

the EU Horn of Africa anti-trafficking initiative. This also seems an indication that the present system is un-

der increasing pressure and that the government may feel pressured to engage in a dialogue. In addition to

that Eritrea has just ratified three UN Conventions

–

on transnational organized crime, on torture and on

human trafficking.

Political prisoners

Several observers doubt that there could be as many as 10,000 prisoners of Eritrean nationality in Eritrean

custody. This figure has recently been reported by some international NGOs. There is a significant number

of political prisoners in Eritrea but it is difficult to ascertain how many they are or under what conditions

they are kept.

National Service

Recently Yemane Gebreab, Head of the Political Office of the PFDJ and reported to be very close to the

President, stated that those who have left Eritrea to avoid National Service are considered economic refu-

gees not political opponents. Yemane Gebreab also expressed the wish to stop the trafficking of Eritrean

asylum seekers through Sudan and Libya. It is damaging for Eritrea that its young generation is leaving their

country.

Many Eritreans are very affectionate of the Scandinavian countries. Denmark, Norway and Sweden are

highly attractive to Eritreans. Besides, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find employment in Italy.

Much of the available information regarding human rights issues in Eritrea, and especially regarding issues

related to evasion and desertion from National Service, stem from Eritrean asylum applicants and refugees

abroad. International human rights observers may frequently quote each other, meaning that the infor-

mation in some cases could be imprecise. Over all, it is very hard to obtain accurate information about emi-

gration and refugees as well as other issues, owing to censorship, lack of openness, very weak or no civil

society and very little international access.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Notes from meetings with sources consulted in Ethiopia

Danish Refugee Council/Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) was one of the founders of RMMS in 2011 and DRC is hosting the Re-

gional Mixed Migration Secretariat (RMMS).

DRC/RMMS explained that Ethiopia recently became the largest refugee hosting country in Africa. The re-

e t RMMS epo t Goi g West do u e ts a sig ifi a t o e e t of people out of the Ho of Af i a.

Explaining why Eritreans leave Eritrea in increasingly larger numbers DRC/RMMS pointing to two recent

developments in Eritrea. Firstly, in July 2014 the Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs visited Eritrea

and discussed increased bilateral cooperation and coordination with the Eritrean government. That visit

attracted attention among the Eritrean Diaspora who feared that the discussions could involve talks about

forced return programs. Secondly, the opening in July-August 2014 of direct Turkish Airline flights between

Istanbul and Asmara was interpreted as a potential means of facilitating forced returns to Eritrea.

DRC/RMMS also pointed to several regional drivers behind the increase in the number of Eritreans who

migrate. Firstly, the security situation in South Sudan has deteriorated and Eritrean refugees in South Sudan

are overlooked as other refugee groups have attracted attention. Secondly, in August 2014 Sudan deported

30 Eritreans including six persons who were registered refugees by UNHCR to Eritrea. Thirdly, Israel has

increased the incentive for its voluntary return program up to 3,500 USD under which asylum seekers, who

are mainly Eritreans, are sent to Uganda under a bilateral agreement between the two countries.

DRC/RMMS explained that Eritreans in Ethiopia are in a special situation compared to other refugee groups

in Ethiopia. For instance they have access to education, however, they receive no further assistance and

have no prospect of local integration, therefore their long term prospects and durable solutions are limited

which forces people to move on. Eritrean refugees are left to themselves, and there have been no exam-

ples of refoulement of Eritrean refugees from Ethiopia to Eritrea. It was added that the ruling party in Ethi-

opia is dominated by northerners, and the president is party [partly] of northern origin. In general, Eritre-

ans are accepted as refugees out of solidarity.

e ti g o the i pa t of the dete io ated se u it situatio i Li a o the efugees o e e t

DRC/RMMS stated that in some instances Christians increasingly are being targeted by the warring militias.

Eritreans often have cultural/Orthodox Christian marks on their face and they are easily identified as Chris-

tians. The insecurity in Libya is pushing the Eritrean refugees north, and boat departures continue to in-

crease from Libya as the role of the central authorities weaken.

Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat, Going West; contemporary mixed migration trends from the Horn of Africa to

Libya & Europe, mixed migration research series; explaining people on the move, 5 Study June 2014,

http://www.regionalmms.org/fileadmin/content/rmms_publications/Going_West_migration_trends_Libya___Europe

_RMMS.pdf

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DRC/RMMS stated that so e e e s of the E it ea Diaspo a a e fu di g the efugees ig atio to Eu-

rope. It is common knowledge that up to recently Italy does not register the refugees who are arriving and

neither do the Italian authorities take fingerprints. Malta as the other European country that is first to re-

ceive Eritrean refugees take fingerprints and conduct the registration according to the procedures.

DRC/RMMS explained that the combination of local and regional developments leave little choice in the

minds of Eritreans in Ethiopia but to try to migrate to Europe. In addition to that there is no significant re-

settlement taking place from the Eritrean refugee camps in the northern part of Ethiopia and it is hard to

get a residence permit by family reunification in Europe leaving applying for asylum as the obvious option.

According to DRC/RMMS an increasing number of Eritrean children leave Eritrea and they are younger than

before. Some of the reasons minors are being driven to leave are documented in the latest ICG report.

DRC/RMMS stated that poverty in Eritrea is widespread, and no one in Eritrea can transfer cash to relatives

in Ethiopia. The money to pay for the journey to Europe by and large comes from the Diaspora. It was add-

ed that it is not possible to transfer money out of Ethiopia, at least not legally. It is even hard to make trans-

fers using the informal money transfer systems.

DRC/RMMS described the journey to Europe as a step-by-step project where people on the move receive

money from family members in the Diaspora along the way. Sabha in southern Libya has been a major hub,

where people either earn some money to finance the next leg of their journey or where they receive mon-

ey from relatives.

According to DRC/RMMS families and even local communities apply pressure on children to leave Eritrea

for Europe. Parents view such arrangement as a long term investment for the good of the family, and at-

tempts

–

programs and information campaigns

–

to prevent the outflow of Eritrean children fall on infertile

ground. It was added that social media are often used to share strategies concerning migration.

DRC/RMMS emphasized that it is the Diaspora that is paying and keeping the migration of Eritreans going,

and any information campaign should therefore involve the Diaspora.

DRC/RMMS believed that many Eritreans might consider that the time is right for migrating to Europe. Sev-

eral factors

suppo t that ie : The poo se u it situatio i Li a, the Italia Ope atio Ma e Nost u

means that the risk of drowning during the sea crossing has reduced, and finally the chances of being

granted asylum is very good as long as the present regime in Eritrea is in power.

DRC/RMMS e plai ed that ost people lea i g E it ea do so to e ade the ou t s o pulso

atio al

service and are therefore mostly young and mostly men. However, there has been a growing trend of

young women, families and minors also risking their lives to leave the country originating from a wider

cross-section of society. The patterns of mobility take people into Ethiopia and Sudan, with recent reports

indicating that traffickers may encourage younger children to leave Ethiopia by not charging them a fee;

their families are then extorted when the children arrive in Sudan.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

DRC/RMMS explained that Eritreans move between the camps in Ethiopia and Sudan. They also leave the

camps and the region to travel on to Libya in the hope of reaching Europe. These extraordinary levels of

mobility are driven by the political and social conditions in Eritrea and there are strong economic drivers to

fa ilitate the e it of e e g eate u e as oted ICG i its ost e e t epo t. These e o o i

driv-

ers include payment of ransom to government-aligned Rashidas, paying funds to be smuggled and the

eventual payment of 2% diaspora tax or remittances back into Eritrea. There is possibly no other country in

the world where such a combination of drivers exits to encourage out-migration through irregular means.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

IOM, Addis Ababa

IOM e plai ed that is does ot ha e a ep ese tatio i E it ea. UNHCR s p ese e is As a a is e

ited.

lim-

IOM explained that family reunifications take place in Eritrea by ICRC. ICRC undertakes risk assessments

and assists children to be reunited with their families in Eritrea. The Eritrean authorities have in principle

accepted to let children outside Eritrea be reunited with the assistance of ICRC, but IOM was unaware as to

how this function.

According to IOM there are several factors that make people flee Eritrea:



Fear of being recruited to the National Service

Fear of imprisonment if their children go missing

Pressure from the Diaspora

Hope of a better life

–

poverty

Finally, there are some, especially children, who cross the border to Ethiopia by mistake

IOM explained that Eritrean refugees have their mind set for Europe even before they embark on their long

journey, not for countries in the neighboring region. This is the reason why one can see a huge secondary

movement of Eritrean refugees from Ethiopia towards Europe. This secondary movement is normally well

organized. Traffickers, i.e. brokers, are well connected in a network stretching from inside Eritrea to the

refugee camps in Ethiopia and from there all the way through Sudan and Libya to Europe. Some brokers are

closely affiliated with families in Eritrea, and the first broker in the refugee camp could be an Eritrean refu-

gee. The offe the pote tial efugees a f ee se i e fo the jou e f o E it ea to the a ps i Ethiopia

and further on to Sudan. Here the refugees are passed on to other brokers who will send the refugees on to

Libya.

IOM as u e tai as to ho the oke s ake p ofit f o thei f ee se i es

, but it is clear that the refu-

gees gradually become indebted to their brokers. There are even reports of brokers threatening to kill chil-

dren if their families do not pay money to them. These brokers are taking advantage of the difficult living

conditions in Eritrea, and very often they personally know the families of those children and youngsters

they are trafficking to Europe. However, there are also a lot of families in Eritrea who approach the brokers

by themselves, mainly to avoid their children being recruited to the National Service.

When asked if there are reports of brokers having retaliated by intimidation or violence because of lack of

payment of the debt IOM stated that it had no information regarding this.

IOM is present in some form in Mai-Aini, Shire, Endabaguna, Adi-Harush and Hitsats [camps].

IOM had not heard of Diaspora Eritreans travelling to Eritrea. However, IOM-staff are regularly travelling in

and out of the Eritrea. According to IOM it is only those Diaspora Eritreans who have paid the 2 % income

tax and cooperate with the government that can travel in and out of the country.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Regarding resettlement of Eritrean refugees IOM explained that the USA has only accepted resettlement of

minors to the country. IOM emphasized that there is no option for the children in the refugee camps and

added that resettlement only takes place on a case-by-case basis. It was added that no one has been assist-

ed by IOM to return to Eritrea out of fear of being arrested upon return to Eritrea.

IOM explained that it assists stranded Eritrean refugees in for instance Sudan and Libya to return to the

refugees camps in Ethiopia. UNHCR, Ethiopian Administration for Refugee and Returnee Affairs (ARRA) and

IOM are working together on this issue, and ARRA accepts returns of Eritrean refugee children as well as

adults who have stranded on the way to Europe. Even though a refugee has returned to the camp in Eritrea

he or she will very often try to endeavor on the journey to Europe once again. A survey among Eritrean

refugees in the camps in Ethiopia showed that approximately 70 % of them were aware of the risks associ-

ated with the journey, but they also strongly believed that they would be able to overcome these risk and

that they would not fall victims of banditry, slavery, militias or other sufferings. IOM emphasized that be-

cause of this it is imperative to do everything possible to change the attitudes and perceptions among Eri-

trean refugees in Ethiopia. It was added that most refugees do not fully comprehend the magnitude of the

dangers involved in the journey to Europe.

According to IOM it is quite normal that an Eritrean refugee who successfully made it to Europe is indebted

to the broker network by up to approximately 40,000 USD. The entire trip could involve up to five brokers.

However, the asylum seeker would never disclose this fact when he or she is being interviewed by an immi-

gration authority in Europe.

IOM emphasized that trying to explain why for instance Denmark suddenly see a considerable increase in

the number of Eritreans asylum seekers is purely speculation. It is basically a question of where the brokers

or smugglers decide to take the asylum applicants, and maybe they have put their eyes on Denmark for no

apparent reason.

Concerning the actual border crossing into Ethiopia IOM stated that the refugees are apprehended by the

Ethiopia autho ities a d a ought to a egist atio e te . F o the e the a e take to UNHCR s egist

tion center, Endabaguna, and finally they are accommodated in one of the refugee camps.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Addis Ababa

Eritreans in Ethiopian refugee camps

Since 2012 the NRC has been present in the refugee camps in Shire in Tigray Province in northern Ethiopia.

These camps are all quite unique as the vast majority

–

if not all

–

of the refuges are youngsters. The camps

are not traditional refugee camps; they are more like youth camps. Only very few families live in the camps.

It was added that majority of the Tigray-speaking Eritreans go to camps in the Tigray-speaking area in Ethi-

opia

–

i.e. Shimelba, Mai-Aini, Adi-Haroush and Hitsat

–

while Afar-speaking Eritreans go to camps in the

Afar-speaking areas.

Regarding services and assistance provided to the refugees NRC explained that one has to realize that al-

most [all] of those Eritrean refugees we speak with in Ethiopia have no intention of staying in the camps for

an extended period of time. Upon arrival in the camps the vast majority of the refugees readily state that

they will be moving on as soon as suitable for them. However, NRC is assisting refugees staying in the

camps with number of interventions including the Youth Education pack that contains vocational training,

life skills, literacy and numeracy subjects. Vocational training involves more than seven skills including car-

peting, sewing, metal work, cooking etc. Recently NRC succeeded in graduating 530 students under the

youth education program. The 530 students stayed in the camps for twelve months before graduation. NRC

emphasized that it tries to work with refugees on elements that may reduce the secondary movement of

refugees. Most often the young refugees are unaware of the hardships that they will encounter during their

long journey through Sudan and Libya, and across the Mediterranean Sea to Italy. This journey is a very

dangerous undertaking.

NRC explained that the vast majority of the 530 graduates have started making livelihood activities in the

camps following the distribution of the startup kits however few may have left the area for unknown desti-

nations. Some of them work for the NRC while others find work outside the camps. However, as refugees

are not entitled to work permits and thus to work outside the camps, NRC is negotiating with the Ethiopian

refugee authority, ARRA, and other government bodies in order to provide Eritrean refugees with work-

permits once they have graduated. NRC and other international NGOs are putting emphasis on how to re-

duce the secondary movement of the Eritrean refugees. Improving the conditions in the refugee camps and

the out of a p s he e togethe ith offe i g jo oppo tu ities ould edu e se o da

o e e t. I

addition to this NRC also has a Liaison Office at the AU level which could examine options for Eritrean refu-

gees in other African countries than Ethiopia.

NRC explained that so far it has not reached an official agreement with ARRA regarding the out of camp

scheme for the Eritreans yet will strive to push for a solution towards the same direction.

NRC found it rather frustrating to see that the refugees it is assisting today may be gone tomorrow. There is

an influx of people from Eritrea to Ethiopia, then a secondary movement to Europe, and no solution to the

problem. Most Eritreans who flee from Eritrea are influenced by the diaspora in Europe and North America.

They are being told what to do and they will move on, even though they will face horrendous challenges

during their journey.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Although NRC does a lot to inform Eritrean refugees about the risks involved in the journey to Europe sec-

ondary movement still continues. This movement will not be reduced until donors are prepared to assist. It

will be extremely difficult to address the problem unless a coordinated effort involving a number of coun-

tries takes place. A multi-national effort is a must if things are to change to the better.

Migrating to Europe

Rega di g spo so i g of E it ea efugees jou e f o E it ea to Ethiopia a d o a ds to Eu ope NRC

explained that although the refugees are poor they are being financed by traffickers (like any other mi-

grants may have experience in this region) to whom they will be indebted. The debt eventually has to be

paid either by the person or by his or her relatives. The diaspora is also engaged in the sense that many

Eritrean refugees have relatives in Europe who send them money. NRC added that those refugees, who do

not have anyone to support them, are probably the ones who stay in the camps for an extended period of

time. During this stay they may take on some work that then is not considered illegal or join a vocational

training program like the ones that NRC runs.

NRC stated that the border crossing from Eritrea to Ethiopia is the most difficult and dangerous part of their

journey and maybe the [the most difficult and dangerous] one among all the journey[s] up to Europe.

When asked if it is possible for refugees leaving Eritrea to bribe the military manning the checkpoints, NRC

stated that Eritrea is not a corrupt country like other African countries. To claim that high ranking military

persons are corrupt and involved in facilitating illegal emigration is not supported by factual knowledge.

However, it could be that an individual checkpoint commander or officer would accept a bribe and facilitate

a border-crossing.

NRC explained that Eritrea and Sudan has signed an agreement concerning visa free travel between the two

countries. All that is needed for an Eritrean citizen to cross the border, regardless of age, is an Eritrean ID

card. In Sudan it is easy for Eritreans as well as Ethiopians to find employment as domestic workers.

Question: is it possible even for draft evaders and deserters from national service to cross the border to

Sudan? Answer: I do not know

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

NRC explained that the main reasons why so many Eritreans are leaving their country are:



Escape from a bad life, in particular the National Service

Search of better livelihood

Civil rights in Europe

Push from families in Eritrea

Pull from relatives in Europe

NRC explained that it is worried about Eritrea. Things are going nowhere and the country is poor.

When the present government is gone there is a real risk that a devastating power struggle might

take place. The humanitarian, human rights and political situation could become even worse than

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

today. This is also the reason why NRC and international observers are analyzing the situation con-

tinuously and cautiously.

Question: Are you aware if the Eritreans coming to Ethiopia have their origin in certain parts of Eritrea. Or is

it so that they come from a variety of places in Eritrea? Answer: Not sure about this

Question: Have you heard of members of the Diaspora returning to Eritrea for family visits or holydays?

Answer: Have no information about this.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Swedish embassy, Addis Ababa

Migrating to Europe

The Swedish embassy explained that the border between Eritrea and Ethiopia is known to be very milita-

rized with minefields in some areas. It is very likely that in order for a person to cross the border some bor-

der guards or military personnel must be involved, i.e. bribed. On the other hand it must be assumed that

the border between the two countries in certain areas is quite porous. The embassy did not know of cases

where persons crossing the border have been shot or killed by Eritrean border guards or military.

According to the Swedish embassy the vast majority of the Eritrean refugees travel from the refugee camps

in Ethiopia through Libya and across the Mediterranean to Italy. Many migrants including Eritreans arrive in

Italy during the spring and summer months when it is safest to cross the Mediterranean. In general it has

become easier for migrants/refugees to cross the Mediterranean since spring 2014, and as most of them

are not being registered in Italy as asylum seekers, they continue their journey into Europe, including to

Denmark.

The Swedish embassy expressed surprise that the number of Eritrean asylum applicants in Denmark has

increased significantly within the last few months, and added that there is no apparent reason for the sud-

den increase in Denmark. Recently, Sweden has witnessed a very large increase in the number of Eritrean

minors applying for asylum. It is equally difficult to point to one single explanation for this increase.

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

The Swedish embassy considered that one plausible explanation for Eritreans leaving Eritrea in increasing

numbers could be the poor socio-economic situation in the country as well as conscription to National Ser-

vice. However, the embassy had no information about any recent changes concerning National Service in

Eritrea. It was added that solid facts about the situation in Eritrea are hard to come by.

Diaspora visits in Eritrea

The Swedish embassy had no information as regards alleged visits in Eritrea by members of the Eritrean

Diaspora.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Tamrat Kebede, Executive Director, InterAfrica Group (IAG)

Eritreans in Ethiopian refugee camps

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) had heard of cases where people have used bribes to pass through military check

points on their way to Ethiopia. However, there is no hard evidence to support the view that the Eritrean

bureaucratic system as such is corrupt.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) stated that he knows many Eritreans who are employed in the informal sector e.g. in

hotels and other industries in especially the province of Tigray [in Ethiopia] where they share language and

culture with the Ethiopian local population.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) explained that Eritrean refugees are not allowed employment within the government.

However, many refugees find employment in private companies i.e. in the informal sector especially the

province of Tigray where they share language and culture with the Ethiopian local population. It is likely

that some of the refugees transfer money to their families in Eritrea. There are many Eritreans living in

Addis Ababa.

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

According to Tamrat Kebede (IAG) it is not possible to point to one or two particular groups of Eritreans as

the ones who leave the country. Men and women, professionals and ordinary civilians are found amongst

the people who leave Eritrea and so are children and youngsters. The refugees are mostly aged between 18

and 35 even though it is not purely the youths that are leaving Eritrea. People with high education and

people with no or little schooling are represented in the outflow of Eritreans and they come from various

regions in Eritrea. Poverty and recruitment into the National Service are the main reasons for leaving Eri-

trea.

Illustrating the character of the Eritrean government Tamrat Kebede (IAG) pointed to the case of a promi-

nent figure in Eritrea who many years ago in a conference criticized the Eritrean judiciary. He was promptly

removed from his office and has had no job ever since. In fact he was lucky that he was not arrested. He

was later allowed to travel to visit family abroad, but his wife and children had to stay in Eritrea, probably

to secure his return to the country.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) explained that Ethiopia has become a transit point for Eritreans who are trying to go

to North America or Europe. Basically, there are two groups of Eritrean refugees: Economic refugees and

political refugees. The economic refugees include people who are looking for opportunities outside of Eri-

trea and who at times are trying to avoid National Service and at times seeking a better life. Political refu-

gees are the ones who leave because of the repressive Eritrean government.

Concerning the National Service in Eritrea Tamrat Kebede (IAG) stated that he did not believe that there

had been any improvement. At least there is no indication hereof based on the testimonies from people

who have left Eritrea. It was emphasized that the issue is rather speculative. Tamrat Kebede considered

that if there had been any improvements, one should expect a decrease in the outflow of people leaving

Eritrea. On the contrary the outflow is increasing.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) emphasized that National Service is not the sole reason why Eritreans leave the coun-

try. The education opportunities are not to encouraging and economic opportunities are more readily ac-

essi le to pa t lo als tha to the o di a itize s. The latte ould e i lined

to look for opportunities

outside of Eritrea. it was added that the living conditions for the average Eritrean are deteriorating. The

inflation is high making daily life difficult and unemployment is equally high at least for people who are not

connected with the ruling party.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) summarized the major push factors:



High inflation

Limited employment opportunities

Fatigue among the diaspora means less remittances to relatives in Eritrea

New national identity, all the wishes/dreams that people had are now gone

Lack of education opportunities

Commenting on the role of the Eritrean Diaspora Tamrat Kebede (IAG) stated that it does not see any fu-

ture for its relatives in Eritrea and people feel compelled to take any risk in order to escape. This idea is

widespread not only among the Diaspora but also in the Eritrean population.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) stated that a part of the Eritrean Diaspora would stop paying the 2% tax if only they

had no relatives in Eritrea. Members of the Diaspora fear that their relatives will be held responsible by the

Eritrean authorities if the tax is not paid.

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) questioned whether the Diaspora is a pulling factor. Previously the Diaspora would cry

out o e out a d I ill help . Toda the Diaspo a is ot

as supportive towards relatives en route to Eu-

rope as it used to be. It is questionable that the Diaspora is a decisive factor enabling the secondary move-

ments out of Ethiopia. Tamrat Kebede doubted that all members of the Diaspora have the means to receive

extended family members and contribute significantly in financing their journey to Europe. Of course, the

Diaspora could provide some money to close relatives, but it is more likely that the families in Eritrea sell

their property and belongings to help a family member to leave the country. When people are desperate

enough and when they are determined to leave Eritrea they are ready to do whatever is necessary. It was

added that the exodus out of Eritrea is not an organized one, and the perils during the long journey to Eu-

rope including the boat trip across the Mediterranean only reflect the magnitude of desperation and hope-

lessness felt by so many Eritreans. The push factors are the core of the problem.

Diaspora visits in Eritrea

Tamrat Kebede (IAG) stated that some members of the Eritrean Diaspora could go back to Eritrea on family

visits or because they feel obliged to fight for their country. However, those who return are probably con-

nected with the government and some are allowed to return because they have businesses that the gov-

ernment has an interest in.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa

Eritreans in Ethiopian refugee camps

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that in recent years approximately 800 to 1,000 Eritreans refugees have ar-

rived in Ethiopia on a monthly basis. However, in 2014 the number of arrivals increased to between 2,000

and 2,500 per month. The number decreased in August 2014 back down to 1,500. There has also been a

corresponding increase in the number of minors coming from Eritrea to Ethiopia. Currently, UNHCR has

registered a total of 73,680 Eritrean refugees in its Shire operation. In reality, though, it is known that fewer

Eritreans than this figure are actually living in the four refugee camps in Northern Ethiopia. To establish the

actual number of Eritrean refugees in the four camps UNHCR is planning to soon undertake a monitoring

exercise in cooperation with with the authorities.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that Eritrean refugees (as with other refugees) are generally required by

the Ethiopian authorities to live in the refugee camps. Refugees must have a pass permit issued by the gov-

ernment to travel outside of the camps.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that the government does allow refugees to live in urban areas, usually

Addis Ababa, for security, health or humanitarian reasons. If necessary, those referred to Addis Ababa for

medical reasons may also be accompanied by another refugee acting as a caregiver. These refugees are

generally provided financial assistance by UNHCR. Approximately 2,600 refugees reside in Addis Ababa on

this asis, i ludi g E it ea s. I additio , th ough the go e

e t s Out-of-Camp

Policy (OCP), it is possi-

ble for Eritrean refugees to reside outside of the camps as long they have resided in the refugee camps for

six months, have no criminal records and can identify a sponsor to support them. Approximately 2,800 Eri-

trean refugees in Addis Ababa are part of the OCP programme, with another 185 refugees residing in

Mekele. Finally, refugees are also allowed to reside outside of the camps to pursue university studies. To-

day the total number of refugees on university scholarships, including Eritreans, is 2204, with 54 having

graduated in 2014.

An unknown number of refugees, including Eritreans, live in Addis Ababa without the necessary permission.

According to UNHCR in Addis Ababa the Ethiopian government allows refugees access to education on the

same conditions as Ethiopian nationals. The government pays 75% of the costs of studying, while UNHCR

covers the remaining 25%. This programme began with Eritrean refugees, but was later expanded to in-

clude refugees from all nationalities.

UNHCR stated that the OCP programme is a very positive project, which would ideally be expanded to oth-

er nationalities and improved. While the OCP programme provides an alternative to camps, refugees are

not authorized to work in Ethiopia, which often makes it difficult for refugees to support themselves, re-

gardless of the presence of their sponsors. Many refugees find ad hoc employment in the informal sector.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that large numbers of Eritrean unaccompanied children arrive in Ethiopia,

with a significant increase being noted in 2014. The number is currently at least 150 children per month. In

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

addition to this there are a lot of young Eritrean men being granted refugee status, most of whom are draft

evaders or deserters.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that unaccompanied minors were initially accommodated in a designated

area of the Mai-Aini camp. Over the past year, though, UNHCR has been working to diversify the care of

these hild e

, e.g., i easi g fa il a e a a ge e ts ith elati es, eati g o

u it a e ar-

rangements where shelters with unaccompanied minors are interspersed with those of families who agree

to watch over them, and by using independent living where possible for older children. Eritrean unaccom-

panied minors began to arrive in significant numbers in Ethiopia back in 2008. Some of the children have

been resettled to the USA, with a target of 100 Unaccompanied Children (UAM) in 2014. The general reset-

tlement targets for Eritrean refugees from the Shire operation is 850 persons in 2014 and 1000 in 2015.

Reunification of unaccompanied minors with family members in Eritrea is difficult, but it is hoped that some

(voluntary and safe) returns might be possible in the future.

According to UNHCR in Addis Ababa, it is known that some Eritrean unaccompanied children leave Ethiopia

for countries further afield. In order to minimize secondary movement, both of refugee children and adults,

UNHCR is working on improving the conditions in the camps.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that when Eritrean refugees cross the border to Ethiopia they are appre-

hended by the Ethiopian military or border officials. They are kept for a few days in one of the temporary

reception centers along the border before they are registered and sent to the Endabaguna reception center

and then on to the refugee camps.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that few Eritrean refugees have an Eritrean passport when they arrive in

Ethiopia. When informed that relatively few Eritreans present an Eritrean ID card when they apply for asy-

lum in Denmark, it was suggested that perhaps those refugees originated from areas of Eritrea where ID

cards were not issued.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that the Ethiopian government is not known for pushing people back across

the border to Eritrea. UNHCR is unaware of instances of refoulement from Ethiopia to Eritrea.

Migrating to Europe

According to UNHCR in Addis Ababa, an unknown number of registered Eritrean refugees travel to Europe

through Sudan and Libya. Previously, many went to Israel through the Sinai desert, but it is believed that

this number has reduced significantly. Today, it is understood that many Eritreans move to Sudan, either

directly from Eritrea or through Ethiopia, and then move onwards to Libya. However, it is almost impossible

to track this secondary movement.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that it is presumed that some Eritrean refugees arrive in the camps with

the purpose of leaving as soon as possible. It is believed that unauthorized movements out of the refugee

camps, either to Addis or other countries, is more significant for Eritrean refugees than for other nationali-

ties, but there is no clear data on this. The refugee camps in the Shire operation are not noticeably worse

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

than those in other refugee camps in Ethiopia, although its newest camp, Hitsats camp, still lacks many key

services.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that in some cases the Ethiopian government has readmitted Eritrean refu-

gees who were apprehended and detained in Egypt to the refugee camps in Ethiopia. A number of these

refugees reported having been kidnapped for ransom or in other ways abused on their journey north.

UNHCR added that it has received reports of horrendous abuses against Eritrean refugees who have trav-

eled to Europe from their country of origin.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that the Eritrean Diaspora plays an important role in encouraging secondary

movements, as some may provide refugees in the region with a rosy picture of life in Europe. There is a

perceived sense of hopelessness amongst many of the Eritrean refugee youth, which encourages move-

ments out of the camps, be they to Addis Ababa or other countries.

Commenting on the role of the Diaspora UNHCR in Addis Ababa explained that some relatives abroad send

remittances to the unaccompanied children in the camps. It is believed that they encourage them to leave

the camps in order for them to join their relatives in Europe.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that many Eritrean refugees who decide to leave Ethiopia do so due to lim-

ited opportunities for work or local integration in Ethiopia. Even those refugees who benefit from govern-

ment-subsidized university studies in Ethiopia may decide to leave the country due to their inability to work

lawfully in the country.

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that it had no information suggesting that any changes concerning National

Service in Eritrea has taken place in recent years.

UNHCR in Addis Ababa stated that particularly teenage Eritrean refugees have stated as a reason for flight

from Eritrea their fear of being enrolled in the National Service.

Diaspora visits in Eritrea

UNHCR in Addis Ababa had no information concerning visits to Eritrea by Eritreans who have been granted

asylum in Europe.

Verification

UNHCR i Addis A a a stated that it a e if a i di idual s egist atio as a efugee i Ethiopia if the

asylum applicant in Denmark gives his or her consent. UNHCR has done the same for other European coun-

tries in the past. It was added that, in the Shire operation, refugee identity cards have only been issued to

Eritrean refugees in the Shimelba Camp. Refugees residing in Shimelba camp have generally lived in the

camp for many years, with more limited movement outside of the camp. Eritrean refugees residing in the

other camps in the Shire operation are issued ration cards, but no other kind of Government/UNHCR doc-

umentation. Plans are underway to issue them refugee identity cards as well.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire

Eritreans in Ethiopian refugee camps

UNHCR Sub Office Shire explained that UNHCR runs four camps in the Tigray Region accommodating Eritre-

an refugees

–

Shimelba, Mai-Aini, Adi-Haroush and Hitsats.



The Shimelba camp was established in May 2004. Approximately 6,000 refugees are registered by

UNHCR.

The Mai-Aini camp opened in May 2008. Approximately 18,000 refugees are registered by UNHCR.

The Adi-Harus camp opened in March 2010. Approximately 29,400 refugees are registered by

UNHCR-Adi-Harus was a tented camp until June 2012 when houses were built of mud bricks.

The Hitsats camp was opened in May 2013. Approximately 19,946 refugees are registered in the

camp

It was added by UNHCR Sub Office Shire that UNHCR has registered 185 Eritreans who have benefited from

the Out of Ca p Poli

OCP . I additio u e tl ,

E it ea efugees a e ad itted i a ious U

versities. Altogether, approximately 3,000 registered Eritrean refugees live in Addis Ababa.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire explained that it tries to encourage the Ethiopian government to expand the num-

ber of refugees who may be encompassedby the OCP. In addition UNHCR also encourages refugees to un-

dertake skills training while in the camps. These initiatives are all attempts to anchor the refugees in the

camps, i.e. to avoid secondary movements. For those who meet resettlement criteria, resettlement as a

durable solution will be pursued. UNHCR has submitted for resettlement about 100 Eritrean unaccompa-

nied children, with a similar number planned for 2014.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire explained that Eritreans who cross the border into Ethiopia are brought by Ethiopi-

an soldiers to one of five temporary reception centers in the border area. From west to east the centers

are: Humera, Shiraro, Adinebri, Dibdibo and Kerseber. From these centers Ethiopian Administration for

Refugee and Returnee Affairs (ARRA) will bring the refugees to the UNHCR registration center, Endabaguna,

where detailed registration process is carried out first by ARRA [then] the UNHCR. Usually, the refugees

stay in the Endabaguna registration center for one day and up to a maximum of three days if time is needed

to locate family members in the camps. The period of time spent at Endabaguna can be longer for unac-

companied minors, due to the need to undertake a best interest assessment and identify appropriate care

arrangements in the camps.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire explained that there are 18 entry points or natural trails into Ethiopia from Eritrea.

During the rainy season, crossings become difficult due to flooded rivers and generally hostile weather This

reduces the number of arrivals from June to the end of September. The western part of the border, i.e.

from the mountains in the east to the border to Sudan in the west, follows the Tekezé River (Setit River)

making it difficult to cross into Ethiopia during the rainy season.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire stated that unaccompanied minors usually arrive in groups of three to five children

who know each other. Adults with unaccompanied minors also cross the borders in groups, but normally

they do not know each other.

According to UNHCR Sub Office Shire the number of Eritrean refugees arriving in Ethiopia have increased

recently. From January to April 2014 the average monthly number was between 1,000 and 1,500 people.

From April to June 2014 the average monthly number rose to between 2,000 and 2,500 people. It was add-

ed that during the rainy season (from June to the end of September) the number usually decline. UNHCR

added that there was a huge increase of arrivals during the month of June 2014 as compared to previous

years.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire stated that an increasing number of Eritrean unaccompanied minors as young as

five-six years of age arrive in the camps. The monthly average arrival rate is from 60 to 80 unaccompanied

children. However, in general the camp population is between 18 and 45 years old. Approximately 80% of

all Eritrean refugees in the camps are children or young men.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire explained that in total 1,448 unaccompanied minors are living in the camps. Some

a e ate ed fo i g oup a e

(505 children in Mai-Ai

i , hile othe li e i ki ship a e

(169 children in

Mai-Aini and 69 in Adi-Haroush). A smaller number of children live independently in the camps. Altogether

there are approximately 1,500 children in the camps. The International Rescue Committee (IRC), the Nor-

wegian Refugee Council (NRC), UNICEF, and UNHCR are all involved in the care-taking of these children.

Migrating to Europe

According to UNHCR Sub Office Shire, it is believed that some Eritrean refugees may have already made up

their minds concerning going to Europe even before they reach the refugee camps in Ethiopia, athough it is

impossible to know exact numbers. Some will have organized their transport clandestinely using syndicates

or organized human smugglers operating between Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya.Many, especially

youngsters, arrive in the camps with no clear idea about Europe. However, once in the camps they are en-

couraged by other refugees to go to Europe. Unfortunately, many refugees have a false image of life in

Europe, and that misperception of life in Europe is not corrected by the Eritrean Diasporas in Europe who

continue to support and encourage secondary movement from Ethiopia.

UNHCR Sub Office Shire stated that another main challenge is the limited services that the refugee camps

offer. Together with the absence of prospects of local integration and the exclusion from the formal labor

a ket i Ethiopia these a e the ajo push fa to s affe ti g the E it ea efugees ig atio .

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

UNHCR Sub Office Shire stated that in general Eritrean refugees refer to the National Service as their reason

for applying for protection.

Diaspora visits in Eritrea

UNHCR Sub Office Shire did not have specific information about Eritrean Diaspora members visiting Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Western embassy (F)

Eritreans in Ethiopian refugee camps

A Western embassy (F) explained that Eritrean refugees are not allowed to work in Ethiopia. However,

those who have a sponsor to vouch for them may attend school, and study at universities but still not work

in e.g. Addis Ababa. On the other hand, the refugee camps are not fenced camps and in reality many leave

the camps within weeks either for illegal work or for going to Europe.

Migrating to Europe

A Western embassy (F) stated that its national immigration authorities saw a major increase in the number

of Eritrean asylum applicants earlier this year, i.e. just some months before a similar increase was regis-

tered in Denmark. However, this sudden increase in Europe should be seen in the light of the fact that

there was a major increase in the number of Eritreans who enter into Ethiopia and Sudan. UNHCR regis-

tered between 500 and 600 Eritreans in Ethiopia in May 2013, but in May 2014 UNHCR registered approxi-

mately 2,500 Eritreans in Ethiopia. It was added that most Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia leave the country

rather quickly.

A Western embassy (F) explained that the migration route used by Eritreans through Saudi Arabia to coun-

tries in the Middle East was closed by the end of 2013, and many Eritreans were deported to Ethiopia by

Saudi Arabia. It was added that another route through Egypt to Israel is also more or less closed now as

Israel has changed its policy towards asylum seekers. Furthermore Egypt also deported illegal immigrants

from Eritrea to Ethiopia (they were allowed to choose between Eritrea and Ethiopia and had to pay for the

flight ticket themselves).

Altogether this may explain why Europe has seen a tenfold increase of Eritreans asylum seekers within the

last 12 months. However, there is no clear explanation why one European country would see a dramatic

increase in the number of Eritrean asylum seekers whereas other countries would see a decline or no

ha ge. It as added that E it ea s usuall a i e i Eu ope i

a es . The a e a u ulated i safe hous-

es i Li a as ell as Suda a d the se t

oats a oss the Mediterranean

each second or third week. It

was added that Sudan recently deported 30 Eritreans. This may affect the Eritreans currently living in Sudan

and incite them to leave Sudan in larger numbers.

Reasons for leaving Eritrea

A Western embassy (F) stated that the available information suggests that evasion of National Service and

desertion is punished severely as is illegal exit of Eritrea, but the information is not factual information

based on empirical work and it does not necessarily reflect the entire reality on the ground in Eritrea. It is

considered that the conditions during military service are horrible. It was added that no one seems to know

how long recruits will have to serve when they are being enrolled into the National Service.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Diaspora visits in Eritrea

According to a Western embassy (F) there are indications that the Eritrean government has an economical

interest in Eritreans leaving the country because the government imposes a 2 % tax on its Diaspora popula-

tion. The Western embassy (F) did not have information regarding its Eritrean Diaspora visiting Eritrea.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

Note from meeting with a source in London

Professor Gaim Kibreab, London South Bank University

Political opposition/economy

The Eritrean government is an oppressive regime. The oppression is targeting any kind of political opposi-

tion to the state and/or the ruling party expressed in any form or suspected of being entertained. However,

the general population although traumatised and harassed by the dictatorial proclivities and policies of the

regime, there is no generalized random suppression against the general public. Those targeted are persons

who might be suspected of potentially mobilizing public opinion, criticize the government or sympathizing

with any form of opposition.

The regi

e is politi all sta le, ut the ou t s e o o is o the i k of ollapse, ut the e is o easo

to believe that the political system will collapse as a result soon. However, remittances and the two percent

income tax are both important contributors to the fragile economy. Many families have someone abroad

who sends money back home. It was clarified that payment of the two percent income tax is not a precon-

ditio fo a Diaspo a s possi ilit to isit E it ea. The ta is e ui ed fo o tai i g state

and municipal ser-

vices such the issuance of passports, inheritance documents, property deeds, birth certificate, renting a car,

etc.

There are some small private companies in Eritrea, but the reality is that the private sector of the economy

has collapsed. Private construction work has stopped since April 2006 when the government withdrew the

licenses of all contractors, civil engineers, architects, etc. Previously people serving their National Service

e e hi ed out to the p i ate se to , ut this has

almost stopped completely as there is no viable private

sector any longer. However, conscripts are still hired out in the agricultural sector. Thus, employment op-

portunities are diminishing. Small, private traders exist, but they are in reality only front men for the firms

of the PFDJ. Today, the government and the ruling party are the only major employers in Eritrea, and the

vast majority of government employees are persons serving their National Service. It has been the govern-

e t s poli to e su e that

it is the sole employer of labor in Eritrea.

National Service

All ou g people egi Natio al Se i e i Sa a. Based o Gai Ki ea s o

i te ie s

with young

people who have fled Eritrea, it seems that there are two ways to be drafted into the National Service.

First, students in 11

grade go to Sawa for their 12

grade. Second, young people in the country-side and

villages are drafted or rounded up. The latter group consists of rural people, mainly small farmers and pas-

toralists. Those who abscond from the service and draft evaders are also rounded up and often taken to the

Meiter camp first for detention and then for military training.

At school and in Sawa all students are taught about the liberation fight and its leaders, the history of the

ruling party and about the leaders of the party. They also receive military training.

Gaim Kibreab explained that he last visited Eritrea 10 years ago and that he would not dare to visit Eritrea today.

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

It is possible to be exempted from military training not from national service. A person who suffers from

physical disability or mental infirmity can be exempted from the military training component but not from

national service. This is also dependent subject to the approval of the military committee that certifies that

the person concerned is so ill that he/she cannot undertake military training. However, the said person is

required to perform national service in the civil sector. Only former combatants are formally exempt from

national service. However, since the war broke out in 1998, this exemption has been forfeited. There are

unconfirmed rumors suggesting that some pay bribe to get exemption on the grounds of mental or physical

unfitness. National Service is not as effectively enforced as before. A few people with money or connec-

tions are able to obtain leave permits and these are extended repeatedly so that the holder may stay away

from their assignments. However, those who do so are vulnerable to being exposed. It was added that the

government tends to turn a blind eye to Muslim National Service evaders from the remote areas, such as

the Afar and Hadendewa and and rural Muslim women. This should be read bearing the following caveat in

mind. Given the fact that there is no rule of law in Eritrea, it is very difficult to predict the behavior of the

state. Nothing is predictable as most practices are not based on stated policies. Hence since there is no

policy that exempts Muslim women, it cannot be said with certainty that they are exempted.

Eritreans who were born abroad or who were born before 1994, i.e. before the introduction of the National

Service, are free to return to Eritrea, but they are obliged to perform National Service if they stay in the

country for more than one year. This will apply to anyone, even those who may hold dual citizenship. It is

important to note in this connection that all Eritreans with a mother or father or both of Eritrean origin

regardless of birth place and citizenship is deemed an Eritrean even against their expressed wish. It is not

possible to renounce Eritrean citizenship. Children below the age of nine are not issued exit visa. If children

above the age of nine leave Eritrea illegally the government considers them as National Service evaders.

The salary in National Service is maximum 450 Nakfa per month, i.e. after 18 months No one can live of that

salary and to many Eritreans remittances are therefore important.

The indefinite nature of the national service and the brutal punishment regime meted to terrify conscripts

with the aim of rendering them obedient to authority in combination with the low pocket money they re-

ceive in the national service contribute to the decision of thousands to flee in search of protection and bet-

ter life. The finding of the survey I conducted among deserters of the national service clearly show that had

it not been for the indefinite service, the large majority would have never considered to leave the country.

on the dangerous journey to Europe because the only perspective in Eritrea is a life on survival level. Given

the multi-causal nature of the drivers of forced migration, it is futile to attempt to isolate a single factor as

being the main reason that has been driving the Eritreans to take imminent risks to their lives.

Penalties in National Service evasion/desertion

Persons who have left Eritrea illegally and who have evaded or deserted from National Service are consid-

ered to have committed treason and are liable to a severe punishment.

Draft evaders/deserters are routinely subjected to torture and detention under severe conditions over a

prolonged period. In reality, punishment for desertion or draft evasion is extremely severe. Whoever refus-

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

es o fails to pa ti ipate i Natio al Se i e looses itize s ights, su h as the ight to o o ulti ate la d,

to work or be self-employed, and gain access to travel documents and exit visa. In other words, whoever

does not perform national service is stripped off all forms of citizenship rights. In fact, over time, refusal or

failure to perform national service can result in indefinite incarceration and in exceptional cases to loss of

life.

Upon return to Eritrea, draft evaders or deserters are usually taken to underground cells at the Adi Abeito

prison outside of Asmara while they are under investigation, i.e. if they are known for political oppositional

activities abroad and their National Service records are found. People have been known to be detained for

one, two or three years and they are exposed to bullying and torture. Finally, deserters are sent to Sawa to

continue their National Service. It could be that evaders must stand up to less bullying than deserters, but

that is just a assu ptio . It as added that Natio al Se i e is a o e sto e i the E it ea go e

e ts

nation building project, but it is not very effective any longer.

I the past t o to th ee ea s the go e

e t s attitude to a ds National

Service seems to be more re-

laxed. It is now possible for National Service evaders and deserters who have left Eritrea illegally to return

to their country. They must go to an Eritrean embassy and sign a repentance letter in which they accept any

penalty for the offense committed. In addition they must pay the two percent Diaspora tax. Finally, they

are obliged to participate in public festivals in Eritrea. In spite of this softer approach many evaders and

deserters still do not dare to return to Eritrea. Individual circumstances play a role as well. Persons who did

not participate in oppositional political activities abroad and people who are connected by family bonds or

in other ways with government officials or members of the ruling party would be more inclined to return to

Eritrea on visits. Gaim Kibreab was aware of a few deserters who have visited Eritrea and safely left the

country again. These are invariably people who have been naturalized in their countries of asylum.

The Eritrean government does not as a general rule harass relatives of National Service evaders or desert-

ers. Generally, it is families that are targeted by the state or its agents for varieties of reasons or suspected

for having organized the flight of their offspring or relatives that are targeted. The authorities might in

some cases detain the parents for a short time and are released after paying a hefty fine.

When asked to comment on the apparent paradox that Eritreans in large numbers cross the border to Ethi-

opia illegally

hile at the sa e ti e the e a e epo ts of soldie s ei g u de o de to shoot-to-kill , Gai

Kibreab explained that it is a very complex issue. People use smugglers or local people including herders

who know the mountains and how to avoid the soldiers. Besides, most flights take place at night and at that

time most soldiers are busy keeping their heads down. It was added that even soldiers cross the border to

Ethiopia.

Corruption

So e of the ilita

a de s, the Colo els a e e

o upt a d u fo

tunately the President has al-

lowed them to run the country because he needs them on his side. Some individuals within the judiciary

Gaim Kibreab,

The Open-Ended Eritrean National Service: The Driver of Forced Migration,

Paper for the European

Asylum Support Office Practical Cooperation Meeting on Eritrea, 15-16 October 2014, Valleta, Malta

UUI, Alm.del - 2014-15 (1. samling) - Bilag 32: Udlændingestyrelsens fact finding-rapport: "Eritrea – Drivers and Root Causes of Emigration, National Service and the Possibility of Return.

are corrupt and so are individuals in authorities that are responsible for housing, visa issuance and recently

the military. However, it cannot be said that the government bureaucracy as such is corrupt. Given the

dearth of press freedom and freedom of speech and expression, the truth is nobody knows.

National Service commanders are acting with impunity which also means that there is no fixed set of rules

regulating the service.

Passports

When Ethiopia some years ago began to issue Ethiopian passports to Eritrean citizens in the neighbouring

countries, Eritrea began to issue passports at its embassies in Khartoum and Nairobi. Eritreans who need an

Eritrean passport often approach their embassy in Khartoum. If they sign the repentance letter (letter of

regret) and show proof of having paid the Diaspora tax, any Eritrean who does not engage in any political or

civil society activity against the government would be issued a new Eritrean passport, regardless of his or

her National Service status.