The Politics of Silence: Interpreting Stasis in Contemporary Eritrea

Abstract

This article examines the current stand-off between the Eritrean government and the broader population, with an appreciation of the historical dynamics that have influenced the contemporary situation. It is argued here that although little appears to be changing in Eritrea on the surface, subtle but important shifts in attitude are taking place, both within government and among the broader populace. The article explores contemporary political culture in Eritrea, including the system which has developed around the position of the President Isaias Afwerki, and in particular focuses on the marked degree of militarisation which now characterises Eritrean society. Specifically, education has now become highly militarised, while the issue of the ‘demarcation’ of the border with Ethiopia – a key issue since the ceasefire in 2000 – has wider implications for future relations between government and people.

Notes

Suddenly, dissent. The Economist, 23 August 2001.

See also Connell, forthcoming.

This may be disingenuous, but it was strongly emphasised to me by a source close to the Minister himself.

Arabic, meaning ‘popular’: a common nickname for the EPLF.

These must necessarily remain anonymous. All are Eritreans, and all interviews and conversations took place in Asmara. Other sections of the analysis and some other interpretations contained in this essay are derived from a range of informal conversations.