Eritrea’s Culture of Impunity: Corruption and Human Rights Abuses Run Rampant

A Country in Crisis

Asmara, Eritrea - In a country where the government holds absolute power, corruption and human rights abuses have become a way of life. Despite having special courts to oversee corruption cases, they remain largely inactive, while the ruling party’s trust fund controls all major companies in the country.

The Culture of Impunity

The PFDJ’s Hdiri Trust Fund is responsible for auditing itself, creating a culture of impunity where those in power can act with complete disregard for the law. The government has also failed to enact its constitution, which was written and approved by the National Constituent Assembly 25 years ago.

Weak Judiciary System

Eritrea’s judiciary system is weak and dependent on the government, with instances of interference by the executive branch. The lack of an independent judiciary has created a climate of impunity, where crimes against humanity are committed with impunity.

Law Enforcement Capacity Issues

The country’s law enforcement capacity remains weak, with widespread corruption and bribery being reported as the cause. Prison conditions are harsh and severely overcrowded, with prisoners held incommunicado for indefinite periods without charge or trial.

Economic Regulatory Capacity

Eritrea’s economic regulatory capacity is also substandard due to the government’s irrational financial policy, which has led to a steady expansion of the currency black market. The country’s economy is controlled by the ruling party and military, with all major companies subject to their control.

International Cooperation

The government’s attitude towards international cooperation is also suspicious, with few advances made in recent years. Eritrea views international cooperation as undesirable, believing it creates dependency.

Civil Society Under Attack

Prohibited Organizations

Eritrean civil society organizations are prohibited, and human rights are routinely violated. Civil rights and freedom of expression and assembly are absent, and arbitrary arrests and religious persecution continue.

Independent Media Shut Down

Independent media has been shut down since 2001, and Eritrea is one of the most notorious jailers of journalists in the world. The government’s treatment of journalists has led to a culture of self-censorship, where those who dare to speak out against the regime are silenced or imprisoned.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eritrea’s culture of impunity is a major concern, with corruption and human rights abuses running rampant. Until the government takes concrete steps to address these issues, the country will continue to be plagued by poverty, instability, and repression.