Eritrea, a nation born from a protracted struggle for self-determination, finds itself caught between the echoes of its revolutionary past and the harsh realities of its present-day governance. The division among Eritreans regarding their support or opposition to the ruling People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) is not just a matter of political allegiance but a profound reflection of the society’s struggle with truth and propaganda.

The Dichotomy of Public Opinion

In Eritrea, public opinion appears split into two distinct camps. On one side, there are those who critically assess information and form opinions based on personal judgment. On the other, some continue to parrot the official lines of the PFDJ, despite these often contradicting observable realities and, at times, being detrimental to their own well-being and that of their families.

The relentless propaganda efforts by the PFDJ are primarily aimed at masking the alleged crimes against humanity perpetrated against the Eritrean people. This propaganda often seeks to deflect blame by pointing fingers at external forces or conspiracies purportedly aimed against the nation. This tactic is not new and feeds into the narrative that Eritreans must endure hardships just a bit longer—a message that resonates easily given the country’s history of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Propaganda Machine and Its Impacts

Nearly three decades after independence, with thousands of political prisoners, tens of thousands of refugees, and millions living in poverty, the regime’s call for perseverance has worn thin. The suffering, once a rallying point, now increasingly appears senseless to many. This crisis of faith has forced many Eritreans to simultaneously hold contradictory beliefs—for example, advocating for justice while supporting the government’s unjust actions, or aspiring for peaceful coexistence while harbouring animosity towards neighbouring countries.

The effectiveness of the PFDJ’s propaganda lies in its ability to create a vacuum where traditional reference points like culture, religion, education, and personal experience lose their grounding. This absence of a shared basis for truth facilitates a breeding ground for further propaganda, which perpetuates itself from every angle.

The Role of the Eritrean Diaspora

The vibrant Eritrean diaspora is uniquely positioned to nurture the space of independent opinion. With access to various technologies, the diaspora has been instrumental in uniting and promoting free thinking and discussion, even managing to transmit these ideas back into Eritrea. As Eritreans abroad remain deeply connected to their homeland, physically and emotionally, they become prime targets for transnational repression aimed at snuffing out dissent. This highlights the need for a global response to protect and encourage the free exchange of ideas across borders.

The Shrinking Space for Dissent

Within Eritrea, the space for holding an opinion that deviates from the official narrative is not just small but shrinking. Those who dare to express dissent face ostracization, imprisonment, or worse. Yet, this contested space, however minute, is vital for the emergence of a normal society. The voices that occupy this space might not always align—they might contradict more than they complement—but their very existence is crucial.

Protecting and Expanding the Space for Dialogue

It is imperative for both Eritreans and the international community to recognize the importance of protecting and expanding this space where diverse opinions can flourish. Supporting these voices, encouraging open dialogue, and teaching the younger generations about the importance of free expression are essential steps towards safeguarding a future where all Eritreans can freely express their thoughts without fear.

The road ahead for Eritrea is fraught with challenges, but fostering a culture that values critical thinking and open discourse over blind allegiance to propaganda is the key to unlocking a more democratic and just society. It is through these efforts that Eritrea can hope to rebuild a society based on truth and mutual respect—a society where the right to think and express oneself freely is not just protected but celebrated.