European Commission seeks to stop migration flows from Libya

On Wednesday 25 January, the European Commission revealed its strategy for blocking the migration flows along the Central Mediterranean Route, especially around Libya. The short-term measurements are intended to significantly reduce crossings before this summer. The measurements include additional support to the Libyan coast guard, strengthening border authorities in North African countries and increasing returns.

News highlights: Arrests in Eritrea, Fortress Europe, RSF Act in Sudan

In this week’s news highlights, we would like to update you on the latest events concerning recent developments related to the Horn of Africa, outcomes of the debate on migration with the new Maltese presidency in the European parliament and EU’s migration strategy.

Human rights abuses in Eritrea glossed over in development-centered meeting

On Monday, 29 November 2016, the Irish European Parliament member Brian Hayes hosted a conference on Eritrea in the European Parliament. Despite the fact that the United Nations Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in Eritrea (COIE) found in its latest report the perpetrating of crimes against humanity by Eritrean officials, the country’s Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel was invited as keynote speaker of the meeting. Gebremeskel was present despite protests from human rights advocates and more than 800 Eritreans and supporters who petitioned against the meeting taking place.