Eritrea seeks global trade while its youth endure compulsory military schooling

Eritrea's education minister, Halima Mohammed, explained that every secondary school graduate undergoes army training before being assigned to long-term roles in the military or low-paid civil positions such as teaching and policing. While the regime has historically shunned the West, Washington recently lifted sanctions, and officials say the nation is ready to welcome investors interested in gold, copper and potash. The country's 1,000 km Red Sea coast has become strategically important as Iran-backed attacks force ships to seek alternative routes.

Tensions with Ethiopia persist over access to the port of Assab, leading to a recent exchange of diplomatic expulsions. Despite rhetoric about reform, the state maintains strict internal security, compulsory national service, and tight travel restrictions that drive many young Eritreans to flee.