Eritrea

Eritrea (orthographic projection)

Location Eritrea AU Africa

File:National Anthem of Eritrea by US Navy Band.ogg

Dera rock art

Leaping Ibex, Ethiopia (2130266960)

Eritrea is a country located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, Djibouti to the southeast, and the Red Sea to the northeast and east. The capital city and largest city is Asmara. Eritrea's coastal location has long been important in its history and culture—a fact reflected in its name, which is derived from the Greek name for the Red Sea, Erythra Thalassa.

History

Eritrea's history is as complex as it is long, with evidence of human habitation dating back to 8000 BCE. The region came under the influence of the Aksumite Empire in the 1st century CE, an important trading empire that converted to Christianity in the 4th century. Following the decline of Aksum, the area that is now Eritrea was contested by various powers, including the Ottoman Empire and the Egyptian Khedivate, before falling under Italian colonial rule in the late 19th century as part of Italian East Africa.

After World War II, Eritrea was administered by the British Military Administration until 1952, when it entered a federation with Ethiopia. This arrangement was short-lived, however, as the Ethiopian government annexed Eritrea in 1962, sparking the Eritrean War of Independence. The conflict lasted for 30 years, ending in 1991 when Eritrean forces captured Asmara and Eritrea declared its independence, which was officially recognized in 1993 after a UN-supervised referendum.

Geography

Eritrea is characterized by its diverse landscapes, which range from the arid and desert-like regions along the Red Sea coast to the fertile and cooler highlands in the interior. The country has several islands in the Red Sea. Its highest point is Mount Soira, located in the southern part of the country.

Politics

Eritrea is a one-party state, with the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) being the ruling party. The government has been criticized for its human rights record, including the indefinite military service imposed on the country's youth. Eritrea has no official press freedom, and it is considered one of the most closed countries in the world.

Economy

The Eritrean economy is primarily based on agriculture, with a significant portion of the population engaged in subsistence farming. The country also has some mineral resources, including gold, copper, and zinc, which have attracted foreign investment. However, the economy faces many challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and the lingering effects of its long independence war.

Culture

Eritrea boasts a rich cultural heritage, with nine recognized ethnic groups, each with its own language and traditions. Music and dance are important aspects of Eritrean culture, often reflecting the country's history and diverse ethnic makeup. Eritrean cuisine is also notable, featuring dishes that are a blend of local ingredients and cooking styles with influences from Italian cuisine.

Demographics

Eritrea's population is ethnically diverse, comprising nine ethnic groups, with the Tigrinya and Tigre peoples being the largest. The country has several languages, with Tigrinya, Arabic, and English serving as the working languages. The majority of Eritreans adhere to Christianity and Islam.

Challenges

Eritrea faces numerous challenges, including human rights issues, a lack of press freedom, and economic difficulties. The indefinite military service has led to a significant diaspora, with many Eritreans seeking asylum in Europe and other parts of the world.