The UN Human Rights Council rejected Eritrea’s attempt to stop international monitoring of its human rights record. Eritrea had proposed ending the role of the UN special rapporteur, claiming its rights issues were minor and due to limited resources. However, 25 countries voted against Eritrea’s proposal, and the mandate was renewed for another year. The special rapporteur’s report showed ongoing serious abuses, including forced, indefinite national service, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on religion and free speech. Eritrea argued that the rapporteur had never visited the country, ignoring the fact that it had refused to cooperate. After losing the vote, Eritrea stated that it would still not cooperate with the UN. Human rights groups welcomed the decision, saying that monitoring must continue until Eritrea ends forced conscription, frees unlawfully detained people, and allows basic freedoms.
Sovereign LORD, we commit the nation of Eritrea into Your Mighty Hands, who removes kings and raises kings. LORD, we plead for Your intervention in the country, seeking a swift change in the political system (The Holy Bible, Daniel 2:21).
Pray for the end of indefinite national service, arbitrary arrests, and religious oppression in Eritrea. Pray for the immediate release of all the arbitrarily detained victims. Pray for religious freedom and freedom of expression in the country (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 23:18).
News Source: Human Rights Watch
Image Source: Canva
