Eritrea Under Fire: UN Sanctions Take Hold

In a move aimed at curbing Eritrea’s destabilizing influence in the Horn of Africa, the United Nations Security Council has imposed sanctions on the country under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. The measures, which were enacted through Resolution 1907 (2009), seek to bring an end to Eritrea’s support for armed opposition groups in Somalia and its ongoing border dispute with Djibouti.

Key Provisions

• A prohibition on the sale or transfer of arms and related materials to Eritrea
• A ban on providing technical assistance or financial support for military activities
• An assets freeze against individuals designated by the 751 Committee, which oversees the sanctions against Somalia and Eritrea

Background

Eritrea’s actions have been widely condemned by the international community, particularly its support of armed opposition groups in Somalia. The country’s ongoing border dispute with Djibouti has also raised concerns about regional stability.

International Response

In response to Eritrea’s actions, the UN Security Council has taken decisive action to bring the country back into line.

Canadian Implementation

The Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolution on Eritrea have been made under the legislative authority of the UN Act and incorporated these sanctions into Canadian domestic law. The travel ban imposed by Resolution 1907 is enforced in Canada through existing provisions of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

However, with the recent termination of the measures by the Security Council, the Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolution on Eritrea have been repealed as of June 1, 2020. This marks an end to Canada’s involvement in enforcing sanctions against Eritrea under this particular resolution.