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Eritrea: A State of Crime and Corruption

As the world grapples with the growing threat of organized crime, a small nation in the Horn of Africa has emerged as a hotbed of criminal activity. Eritrea, once touted as a beacon of hope and stability, has descended into a state of authoritarianism and criminality.

State Actors: The Epitome of Criminality

In Eritrea, organized crime is not limited to street gangs or petty thieves. Instead, it is the state itself that perpetuates criminal activity on a massive scale. The government, led by President Isaias Afwerki, has been accused of human trafficking, bribery, and kidnapping, with diplomats and officials involved in various forms of corruption.

Diplomats and Trafficking

Eritrean diplomats posted abroad have been implicated in human trafficking, allegedly facilitating the smuggling of people across borders. This is not a new phenomenon; critics have long accused the government of using its diplomatic corps to engage in criminal activities.

Police and Military Involvement

The police and military are also embroiled in organized crime, with personnel involved in trafficking and other forms of illegal activity along the Sudanese border. This has created a culture of impunity, where law enforcement officials are above the law.

Transnational Networks

Eritrea is not alone in its criminal enterprise. Transnational networks of Eritrean smugglers operate on routes towards Europe, with operatives often from the same communities as those being trafficked. Rashaida traffickers, aided by Eritreans, have been known to kidnap and hold individuals for ransom in the Sinai peninsula or Libya.

Lack of Transparency and Accountability

The Eritrean government is notorious for its lack of transparency and accountability. The economy is shrouded in secrecy, with no reliable data on crime dynamics or economic performance. This has led to widespread corruption and a culture of impunity, where officials can engage in criminal activity with relative ease.

Civil Society Under Siege

The Eritrean government has also cracked down on civil society, imprisoning journalists and human rights activists, and banning non-governmental organizations from operating within the country. This has created a culture of fear and silence, where citizens are reluctant to speak out against government wrongdoing.

Conclusion

Eritrea’s descent into criminality is a stark reminder that authoritarianism and corruption can have devastating consequences for individuals and society as a whole. As the world grapples with the growing threat of organized crime, it is essential that we hold governments accountable for their actions and work to promote transparency, accountability, and human rights.