Title: The massive flight of young Eritreans: a demographic challenge for the country
Introduction :
Eritrea, a small country in the Horn of Africa, is facing an unprecedented demographic crisis due to the massive flight of its youth. This migratory trend worries many analysts, because it risks making both society and the country’s state institutions dysfunctional. In this article, we will examine the reasons for this mass emigration and the consequences it brings for Eritrea.
The causes of the flight of young Eritreans:
The main reason for this flight is the totalitarian military control and governance system in place in Eritrea. Compulsory national service, with no time limit, places young Eritreans in a situation of uncertainty with no future. Eritrean citizens live in a climate of control, surveillance and daily regimentation. Members of Pentecostal and evangelical churches are persecuted and imprisoned, and the country lacks a constitution and the rule of law. Freedom of movement is restricted and young Eritreans are often arrested, imprisoned and forcibly conscripted. Additionally, they need an exit visa to leave the country, which is extremely difficult to obtain. This is why many young Eritreans choose to leave the country “illegally”, by crossing borders to neighboring countries.
The consequences for Eritrea:
This massive flight of young Eritreans has disastrous consequences for the country. Cities, villages and rural regions find themselves with a shortage of young people, who prefer to seek a better future elsewhere. Elderly people and children find themselves left behind. Furthermore, the country is losing a large part of its productive workforce, dealing a fatal blow to the economic sector. If this migratory trend continues, Eritrea risks becoming a real demographic desert.
Challenges for the future:
Faced with this demographic crisis, the Eritrean government does not seem to be taking measures to stem it. He refuses to recognize this reality and continues to maintain a totalitarian regime. The reforms needed to restore hope to Eritrean youth and ensure a stable future for the country are being neglected. It is therefore urgent to investigate the root causes of this mass emigration and to put in place policies aimed at stabilizing the population and providing future prospects for young Eritreans.
Conclusion :
The massive flight of young Eritreans represents a real demographic challenge for the country. It is essential that the Eritrean government recognizes this crisis and acts quickly to put in place reforms that will retain the young and productive population. As youth are the engine of development, it is crucial to take steps to safeguard Eritrea’s future.