By Selam Kidane

The Global Yiakl Movement (GYM), a coalition of Eritreans united against ongoing repression inside Eritrea, held a significant conference in Milan, Italy, over the weekend of July 5th. The summit aimed to critically assess the movement’s role and broader resistance efforts. Key objectives included uniting Eritreans on the GYM platform to develop expert solutions to the threats facing their nation and inspiring the younger generation to take on leadership roles.

Objectives and Themes

The conference featured diverse and insightful discussions on diaspora-based political and social movements, recognising that overthrowing repressive regimes and ensuring a stable transition to democracy is complex and requires a systematic, informed approach. The key points of the conference included:

1. Keynote Speakers: Influential figures addressing Transnational Repression.

2. Brainstorming Sessions: Evaluation of GYM’s current status and future prospects.

3. Breakout Sessions: In-depth discussions on various topics.

4. Summary Recommendations and Remarks.

5. Networking Opportunities: Informal interactions during breaks or social events.

Dynamic Discussions

With participants from Australia, the US, Africa, and across Europe, the conference sparked dynamic discussions on topics ranging from transnational repression to mobilisation and diplomacy. These discussions highlighted the plight of Eritreans, particularly the youth, who have suffered greatly under the oppressive Eritrean regime, which has also extended its reach to diaspora communities.

Key Topics and Insights

Key topics included trasnationalrepression and a panel discussion that drew lessons from experiences of Eritreans  in Norway (presented by Professor Kjetil Tronvol), Sweden (presented by Asa Söderström), and Israel (presented by Sigal Avivi). Each presenter expressed solidarity with Eritrean refugees and urged Global Yiakl and other stakeholders to consider strategies that would elevate their concerns to a higher level for effective change. They emphasised the importance of avoiding frustration among young protesters and misunderstanding in host communities, which could worsen the situation. The core of the required change remains within Eritrea, and the repression must end.

Strategic Advice from Ambassador Haile Menkerios

Ambassador Haile Menkerios, an Eritrean diplomat who served as the Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union and as Special Representative to the African Union, provided strategic advice at the Yiakl European Conference. His recommendations included:

  1. Thoroughly understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the PFDJ.
  2. Recognising the national interests of the countries being petitioned.
  3. Creating a credible and united front to petition effectively with or without external support.
  4. Establishing credible connections within Eritrea.

He also encouraged the young activists to approach him as a unified front representing Eritrea for assistance in introductions.

In addition Ambassador Menkerios expressed optimism about the approaching end of the brutal regime in Eritrea.

Intergenerational Collaboration

Negash Osman and Oqbazghi Debus, representatives of Eritrean political groups, praised the efforts of young activists and encouraged them to learn from past mistakes and build on the progress made, highlighting the importance of intergenerational collaboration.

Workshops and Recommendations

Workshops aimed at making recommendations to Global Yiakl covered various issues, including addressing infiltration and developing robust strategies to support the Blue Revolution. These recommendations will be reviewed and implemented by Global Yiakl’s leadership in due course.

Conclusion

The involvement of veterans like Haile Menkerios, Negash Osman, and Oqbazghi Debus, alongside their much younger counterparts in Brigade N’Hamedu, as well as the solidarity expressed by figures such as Professor Kjetil Tronvol and Asa Söderström, fosters a sense of hope. However, the enormity of the challenges and the complex nature of a struggle that spans several generations and various waves of migration with differing experiences are clearly evident. The Eritrean struggle for justice must be multi-pronged, addressing concerns both inside and outside the country. Central to all activities is the need to chart a path for change within Eritrea itself.