European Commission strategy for Eritrea causes concern

Brussels, 19/02/09: The European Commission plans to provide aid to Eritrea despite political and practical concerns. These concerns have long been expressed by both Eritrean diaspora and civil society organisations since continuing to provide aid might give the wrong political signal to the country's authoritarian government, or even contribute to the its survival. The European Commission has so far seen engagement with the Eritrean authorities as the best way to improve the situation. The European Parliament has been more critical and issued a resolution on the Horn of Africa in January in which it asked the EU to reconsider its approach to Eritrea unless progress is made. The approval of the European Commission’s country strategy and budget for Eritrea is scheduled for this spring and provides a good opportunity for a European re-engagement in human rights in Eritrea.

Click here to read an article in New Europe and share your comments!

Click here to read an article in the European Voice and share your comments!

Click here to read the editorial from from Awate.com