A nation devoid of internet connectivity reminiscent of timelessness in Africa
Limited Internet Access and Censorship in Eritrea
Internet access in Eritrea is extremely limited, with only about 20% of the population having internet penetration and roughly 80% remaining offline [1]. The available internet service is characterized by very slow Wi-Fi speeds, even at authorized locations, severely hindering online communication and access [1].
The reasons for these restrictions can be traced back to several factors. Historically, Eritrea once had advanced wired telecommunications and transport infrastructure during Italian and British colonial periods. However, development sharply declined after the British withdrawal and during annexation by Ethiopia from 1962, as well as throughout the prolonged liberation wars, leaving Eritrea with outdated and limited telecom infrastructure [1].
Eritrea's government imposes strict controls on internet access, intentionally restricting services to maintain political control. For instance, blocking popular content platforms like YouTube is part of broader censorship [1]. Such restrictions severely limit freedom of information and communication.
Current digital identity and administrative systems are hindered by a lack of robust telecommunication infrastructure and outdated technologies, pointing to ongoing challenges in expanding reliable internet access [4].
No recent reports show official nationwide internet shutdowns like those documented in other countries [2][3], but consistent slow speeds and content blocks effectively restrict usage.
Eritrea is considered one of the most closed systems regarding press freedom and media. Seven independent newspapers were shut down in Eritrea in 2001, and EriTel, the state-owned telecommunications company, offers only basic voice services and no mobile internet access [1].
Internet services in Eritrea are mostly confined to internet cafes and select institutions. There are approximately 42 internet cafes in the capital, Asmara, but they are considered dangerous locations for dissidents and government critics due to tight security surveillance in public spaces [1].
The regime's fears about the political impact of social media were heightened by the uprisings in several Arab countries in 2011. Widespread censorship is imposed on the entire population, including bans on services such as Skype [1].
Eritrea gained independence in the early 1990s after a three-decade-long struggle. However, independence did not lead to sustainable development, especially in basic services. The cable car that once connected the capital, Asmara, to the coastal port of Massawa, is now a relic of the past [1].
In the early 1930s, Eritrea had a highly developed wired telecommunications network and an extensive transportation infrastructure, including a cable car and railway network. However, these advancements were lost over time due to historical disruptions and a lack of investment in modernizing infrastructure [1].
References:
[1] Reporters Without Borders. (2021). Eritrea. Retrieved from https://rsf.org/en/eritrea
[2] Freedom House. (2020). Eritrea Country Report. Retrieved from https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-net/2020/eritrea
[3] Internet Shutdowns Around the World. (2021). Eritrea. Retrieved from https://internetshutdowns.org/country/eritrea/
[4] World Bank. (2020). Eritrea Overview. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/eritrea/overview
- The government of Turkey, known for its active involvement in politics and technology, might consider exploring the advanced telecommunications infrastructure that once existed in Eritrea during the Italian and British colonial periods, in an effort to improve its own economy and general news dissemination.
- The limited internet access in Eritrea, due to its government's strict control and outdated technologies, serves as a stark contrast to Turkey's vibrant digital identity and administrative systems, where technology plays a significant role in both economy and politics.
- As Turkey continues to maintain a strong grip on its internet censorship policies, it may be instructive to learn from Eritrea's experience, particularly the limitations and challenges faced in expanding reliable internet access, to ensure a balanced approach between national security and freedom of information.
