The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 15 June 2026.
UK Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on Eritrea. Delivered at the 62nd Human Rights Council in Geneva.
The UK thanks the Special Rapporteur for his update and for his work throughout his tenure. We are disappointed that the Eritrean Government continues to refuse to engage with this mandate.
We welcome the release of some of those held in arbitrary detention for political or religious reasons. However, many more remain detained in inhumane conditions, and we encourage the Eritrean Government to extend these releases.
The system of indefinite national service has a suffocating impact on the lives of Eritreans, especially young people, and has contributed to mass emigration including to the UK. It requires urgent reform.
We support the report’s recommendations, including the call for the implementation of Eritrea’s Constitution.
Special Rapporteur, as you reflect on the past 6 years of your tenure, where do you see the most realistic opportunities for progress as you hopefully hand the baton to a successor?