It is ironic that someone like Michael Rubin, whose warmongering commentary has repeatedly championed disastrous interventions in Iraq, Libya, and Syria, now turns his gaze toward Eritrea. Rubin’s career is a testament to failed predictions and reckless advocacy for interventions that have plunged nations into chaos. His penchant for oversimplification and exaggeration has earned him a reputation as a propagandist rather than a credible analyst. For someone whose worldview has been repeatedly discredited by the real-world consequences of his recommendations, Rubin’s obsession with Eritrea reeks of desperation for relevance. Eritrea, a nation that has consistently fought for its sovereignty, advanced national development, and contributed to regional stability, will not be swayed by the misguided musings of a failed warmonger.
Eritrea’s modern history is a testament to resilience and determination. Emerging from a 30-year war for independence, the country faced immense challenges, including hostile neighbors, international sanctions, and minimal infrastructure. Unlike nations that inherited developed systems or benefited from foreign aid, Eritrea built its governance and economy from scratch. Despite these adversities, Eritrea has achieved significant progress in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Reductions in infant mortality, improved literacy rates, and a robust focus on disease prevention highlight Eritrea’s commitment to human development. These achievements underscore the nation’s resourcefulness and determination to prioritize its people’s welfare amid external constraints.
Eritrea’s contributions to regional peace and security are equally noteworthy. The country has been a pivotal player in counterterrorism efforts, including through ongoing collaboration with, and training of, Somali military forces to bolster the region’s ability to combat extremism. Moreover, Eritrea was among the first nations to confront Al-Qaeda in the 1990s, initiating efforts to drive Osama bin Laden and his network out of Africa. This proactive stance against terrorism predated the global focus on combating extremist threats, underscoring Eritrea’s foresight and long-standing commitment to regional and global security.
Eritrea’s long-standing perspectives – which is in the public domain – on enhancing effective and meaningful frameworks of cooperation among the littoral States of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region is another case in point. This initiative exemplifies Eritrea’s dedication to fostering international trade and protecting global economic interests, reaffirming its position as a proactive and reliable regional partner.
Despite these achievements, Eritrea continues to be unfairly criticized in international discussions. Detractors frequently misrepresent its policy of self-reliance as isolationism, overlooking its strong ties with a plethora of global and regional countries. These partnerships reflect Eritrea’s active engagement in global diplomacy and regional cooperation. In reality, it is some western countries that intermittently attempt to isolate Eritrea by perpetuating outdated narratives and imposing counterproductive policies. Eritrea’s emphasis on sovereignty and independence is not a rejection of cooperation but a commitment to sustainable development and mutual respect.
Eritrea’s national service program, often criticized by these same quarters, is widely misunderstood too. Similar to programs in other nations, it was established to safeguard national security and uphold sovereignty, particularly during critical periods such as the border war with Ethiopia. Mischaracterizing it as forced labor disregards its purpose and historical context. National service in Eritrea is a collective responsibility, designed to defend the nation and contribute to its development, reflecting a commitment to unity and resilience rather than coercion.
Simplistic comparisons and pejorative labels do little justice to Eritrea’s unique geopolitical context. Such analogies obscure the nation’s active participation in international trade, its contributions to regional peace, and its efforts to forge sustainable partnerships. Calls for “regime change”, as Rubin advocates, reflect a failure to understand the disastrous consequences of similar interventions in countries like Libya and Iraq. Eritrea’s policies, while not without challenges, are rooted in legitimate concerns about sovereignty and self-determination. External interference undermines these principles and violates international norms of non-interference.
Eritrea’s achievements and contributions deserve recognition rather than dismissal. The country’s proactive and cooperative role in the promotion of the security of the Red Sea, its commitment to combating terrorism, and its leadership in fostering regional integration highlight its strategic importance and dedication to global stability. What Eritrea seeks is constructive engagement based on mutual respect and understanding, not biased narratives or unjustified criticism.
Michael Rubin’s critiques of Eritrea, including his latest piece, “Eritrea Is the North Korea of Africa: America Must Act,” exemplify a pattern of misrepresentation and biased narratives that fail to advance the interests of Eritrea or the Horn of Africa. Such rhetoric not only distorts Eritrea’s reality but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that undermine meaningful engagement and progress. Eritrea’s steadfast commitment to sovereignty, regional stability, and sustainable development demonstrates its resilience and enduring significance. Through strong partnerships with global and regional powers and a focus on pragmatic, forward-thinking initiatives, Eritrea continues to chart a path defined by self-reliance, unity, and a vision for shared prosperity, neutralizing baseless critiques with its unwavering dedication to progress.
Embassy of The State of Eritrea
Washington, DC
08 Jan 2025
