The government of Eritrea has refused to recognize any religious group except the Eritrean Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran churches, and Sunni Islam. Christians belonging to unrecognized churches face serious problems accessing community resources, especially social services provided by the state. Young people are forced to join the military, and Christians have no right to conscientious objection. Those found practicing their unrecognized religion while doing national service have faced severe punishment. The extreme level of pressure and the very high level of state-sanctioned violence is forcing some Christians to flee the country. Christian converts from a Muslim background and cross-denominational converts from an Orthodox Christian background also face rights violations from their families and communities. Christians, particularly young people, are confronted with a bleak choice: either endure long-term detention in extremely hostile environments (such as shipping containers) or risk fleeing the country through perilous trafficking routes. These routes often pass through countries like Sudan, Egypt, and Libya, and across the treacherous Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, they face the dangers of death, extortion, and torture. The already perilous journey for Christians fleeing hostile conditions is further complicated by ongoing conflicts in Sudan, Ethiopia, and Libya. These conflicts add additional layers of danger and uncertainty, making the escape route even more treacherous for those in desperate circumstances.
