Eritrea accused of rights violations

ASMARA, Eritrea, April 16 (UPI) -- Repressive conditions in the East African nation of Eritrea are creating a human rights crisis and driving many citizens out of the country, a report says.

In a 95-page survey, Human Rights Watch cited Thursday what it termed serious human rights violations by the Eritrean government, including arbitrary arrest, torture, appalling detention conditions, forced labor, prolonged conscription and severe restrictions on freedom of movement, expression, and worship.

It also analyzed the difficult situation faced by Eritreans who succeed in escaping to Libya, Sudan, Egypt, Italy and other countries.

"Eritrea's government is turning the country into a giant prison," said Georgette Gagnon, Africa director at Human Rights Watch. "Eritrea should immediately account for hundreds of 'disappeared' prisoners and open its jails to independent scrutiny."

Human Rights Watch urged the United States and European Union to coordinate with the United Nations and the African Union to resolve regional tensions and ensure that development aid to Eritrea is linked to progress on human rights.