Operational context
The protection environment for refugees and asylum-seekers remained limited in Eritrea in 2018, stemming largely from the absence of a legal framework and the fact that Eritrea is neither a party to the international nor regional refugee instruments and applicable frameworks. However, there are hopes that the peace agreement between Eritrea and Ethiopia signed in July 2018, the cooperation agreement with Somalia, and the lifting of the UN Security Council sanctions will pave the way for the necessary legislative developments. These are important steps towards establishing safeguards against refoulement and access to durable solutions for both urban and camp-based refugees.
UNHCR has been working in close coordination with the Government of Eritrea, IOM and UNHCR’s office in Libya to support the voluntary return of Eritreans from Libya. The process is still at early stages and is being done on a needs basis due to requirement for agreement from the Government of Eritrea and ensuring that the returns are truly voluntary while also ensuring that return to Eritrea is carried out in safety and dignity. Furthermore, UNHCR is looking into ensuring that the voluntary return of Eritrean nationals stranded in Libya would be accompanied with reintegration projects which would benefit both the returnees and the host communities, for sustainability.
Population trends
At the end of 2018, the total population of concern in Eritrea is 2,273 out of which 2,255 were assisted. The majority, some 2,148, originate from Somalia, with smaller caseloads from Sudan, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Key achievements
In 2018, UNHCR:
- 100% of camp-based refugees and some living in the host community village around the camp had access to basic health services.
- Maintained a monthly distribution of 15kg wheat flour, 1.5kg of corn-soya blend and $27 per person to all refugees in camps.
- 20 urban refugee households received an average of $267 per month.
- Improved the water supply system to refugees.
Unmet needs
- 475 Camp based households have unmet needs such as education, clothing and other non-food items due to funding restrictions.
- Water shortage remained a problem and water trucking became too costly for the operation to maintain.
- Five (5) individuals with chronic illness such as diabetes were not able to consistently receive necessary treatment due to limited of availability of medication in country.