Eritrea’s Lack of Transparency and Accountability Leaves Citizens Vulnerable to Abuse

A Shroud of Secrecy: Eritrea’s Government in Crisis

Asmara, Eritrea - The government of Eritrea operates with a shroud of secrecy, leaving citizens without access to basic information about state budget and asset disclosure, or any auditing of state spending or income. This lack of transparency and accountability has created an environment where corruption and mismanagement can thrive.

A Culture of Abuse

Arbitrary arrests
Detention without charge or trial
Harsh prison conditions

The ruling PFDJ party’s Hdiri Trust Fund controls all major companies in the country, with the financial head of the party responsible for auditing the fund. This lack of transparency and accountability has led to widespread abuse.

International Isolation

Eritrea’s international cooperation has been limited, with the government preferring a strategy of self-reliance. The country has few ties with the international community, and its leadership views international cooperation as creating dependency.

Judiciary System in Crisis

Lack of independence
Transparency violations
Harsh prison conditions

Special courts, headed by military officers, have remained largely inactive, and due process is regularly violated. Prisoners are often held incommunicado for indefinite periods without charge or trial.

Economic Regulatory Capacity Substandard

Irrational financial policy leading to a currency black market
PFDJ and military monopoly on the economy
No financial oversight

The government’s economic regulatory capacity remains substandard, with the country experiencing a severe lack of transparency in its financial dealings.

Failure to provide support for victims of organized crime, trafficking, and human rights abuses
Civil rights and freedom of expression non-existent
Independent media shut down since 2001
Journalists frequently jailed

The lack of civil society and social protection mechanisms is a major concern, leaving citizens without recourse when they are subjected to abuse.

Vulnerability to Corruption and Money Laundering

Eritrea’s proximity to regions affected by terrorism and criminal activity makes it vulnerable to corruption and money laundering. While the country has anti-money laundering laws in place, it has not submitted any reports on its efforts to combat these issues.

Border Control Policies Criticized

Profiteering from illegal smuggling and human trafficking
Eritrean troops involved in a war against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front
Occupation of territory previously administered by the regional government of Tigray

The government’s strict border control policies have been criticized, with reports of profiteering from illegal activities.

A Call to Action

International pressure is needed to push for reforms and protect the rights of Eritrean citizens. The lack of transparency and accountability in Eritrea has created an environment where corruption, abuse, and human rights violations can flourish. It is essential that the international community holds the government accountable for its actions and demands greater transparency and accountability.