Professional Ethics at Eritrea
Professional ethics in Eritrea are shaped by a tightly controlled political environment, limited freedom of expression, and state-dominated institutions. While some ethical standards exist on paper or through professional training, the real-world application is often constrained by authoritarian governance and lack of institutional independence.
Overview of Professional Ethics in Eritrea
1. Political and Social Context
Authoritarian State: Eritrea has been under the rule of President Isaias Afwerki since independence in 1993. The lack of political pluralism affects professional ethics, particularly in journalism, law, and public service.
Military and National Service: Mandatory and indefinite national service affects nearly all professions and limits personal freedoms and professional autonomy.
2. Legal and Institutional Framework
Limited Legal Protections: While there are laws and codes of conduct for certain professions, enforcement is minimal and often politically influenced.
No Independent Judiciary: The judiciary is not independent, making it difficult to challenge unethical practices or defend ethical professionals.
Restricted Civil Society: NGOs and independent professional associations are heavily restricted or banned, limiting platforms for ethical discourse and advocacy.
3. Professional Sectors and Ethics
Public Sector
Party Loyalty Over Merit: Public employment and advancement are often based on loyalty to the ruling party (PFDJ) rather than qualifications or ethics.
Lack of Transparency: There is little public oversight or accountability in government operations, increasing the risk of ethical violations.
Healthcare
Severe Resource Limitations: Ethical challenges in medicine include shortages, unequal access, and the involvement of conscripted workers, affecting care quality and fairness.
Human Rights Concerns: Some reports suggest health professionals may be pressured to comply with state surveillance or political agendas.
Media and Journalism
No Free Press: All media is state-run; independent journalism is banned. Ethical journalism is nearly impossible, as journalists are expected to propagate government narratives.
Censorship and Imprisonment: Journalists and professionals speaking out face imprisonment without trial.
Education
Indoctrination and Control: Curriculum and teaching are controlled by the state. Critical thinking and ethical debate are discouraged in favor of ideological conformity.
National Service Teachers: Many teachers are conscripts, affecting their professional autonomy and ethical responsibilities toward students.
4. Business and Corporate Ethics
State-Dominated Economy: Most large businesses are owned or controlled by the government or ruling party, which reduces transparency and accountability.
Lack of Private Sector Standards: Ethical standards in business are not independently regulated; corruption and exploitation can go unchecked.
5. International and Diaspora Influence
Exiled Professionals: Many trained Eritrean professionals live in exile, where they contribute to ethical discourse and critique the situation at home.
International Human Rights Advocacy: Organizations like the UN and Human Rights Watch have repeatedly raised concerns about ethical abuses in Eritrean governance and professional life.
Conclusion
Professional ethics in Eritrea are heavily constrained by authoritarianism, limited freedom, and a lack of institutional independence. While individuals may strive to uphold personal ethical standards, systemic barriers often prevent ethical professional conduct, especially in law, healthcare, education, and journalism.
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