Eritrea’s Struggle Against Organized Crime: Progress Made, Challenges Remain

As Eritrea celebrates a decade of progress in its anti-organized crime efforts, experts say that while significant strides have been made, the country still faces numerous challenges in combating criminal networks.

Strengthened Relationships and Training Seminars

In 2023, Eritrea has continued to strengthen its relationships with neighboring countries and international organizations, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to combat human trafficking. The government has also taken steps to improve its capacities to counter organized crime, including hosting training seminars for key stakeholders.

Challenges Remain

However, despite these efforts, Eritrea’s criminal justice system remains weak, with no independent judiciary or national assembly. The country’s prison conditions are harsh, and corruption and bribery are rampant.

• “Eritrea’s lack of transparency and accountability makes it difficult to track the progress of its anti-organized crime efforts,” said a senior UN official.
• “While there have been some positive developments, more needs to be done to address the root causes of organized crime in the country.”

State Actors Involved in Criminal Activity

The report highlights the involvement of state actors in criminal activity, including police and military personnel who have been accused of trafficking along the Sudanese border. The government’s control over the economy and its reliance on informal money transfer systems also make it vulnerable to money laundering.

Challenges for Civil Society Organizations

Meanwhile, civil society organizations are struggling to operate in Eritrea due to the country’s strict restrictions on non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Journalists and human rights activists face harassment and intimidation, with many imprisoned for their work.

• “The government’s restrictions on NGOs make it difficult for them to effectively monitor and address organized crime,” said a senior official from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

International Cooperation and Support Crucial

Despite these challenges, experts say that Eritrea’s efforts to combat organized crime should be recognized. “While there is still much work to be done, it is encouraging to see the government taking steps to address this issue,” said a senior official from the IMF.

As Eritrea continues its fight against organized crime, experts say that international cooperation and support will be crucial in helping the country overcome its challenges. “The international community has a critical role to play in supporting Eritrea’s efforts to combat organized crime and protect human rights,” said a UN official.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Eritrea has made progress in its anti-organized crime efforts, the country still faces significant challenges in combating criminal networks and protecting human rights. International cooperation and support will be crucial in helping Eritrea overcome these challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens.