Country Profile: Eritrea
Eritrea is located in Eastern Africa, bordered by the Red Sea, Djibouti, and Sudan. With a population of approximately 6.4 million, Eritrea has an economy heavily reliant on agriculture, facing challenges as one of Africa's poorest nations. Governed under an authoritarian regime led by President Isaias Afwerki since its independence in 1993, the country has faced severe international scrutiny for its human rights record and military conscription policies. Recent diplomatic engagements aim to enhance Eritrea's regional influence, particularly after a longstanding conflict with Ethiopia.
Geography
Eritrea's geographical landscape includes a mix of coastal deserts, highlands, and flat plains, with a total area of 117,600 square kilometers. The climate varies from a hot and dry coastal zone to cooler highlands, which receive significant rainfall during the wet season. The country is home to several natural resources, including gold, potash, and potential oil reserves.
- 1,840 km of land boundaries with Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti.
- 2,234 km of coastline along the Red Sea.
- 62.7% of land designated for agriculture (2023).
People and Society
With an estimated population of 6.4 million in 2025, Eritrea is ethnically diverse, predominantly composed of Tigrinya, Tigre, and other ethnic groups. The country recognizes Tigrinya, Arabic, and English as official languages. Urbanization is progressing, with about 43.3% of the population living in urban areas.
- 35.7% of the population is aged 0-14 years (2025).
- 21.7 years is the median age (2025).
- 25.92 births per 1,000 population (birth rate for 2025).
Economy
Eritrea's economy is largely agrarian, with a developing mining sector contributing to its GDP. The country's GDP in purchasing power parity is estimated to be $2.534 billion in 2024. Despite a fiscal surplus, Eritrea struggles with high debt levels and limited access to international markets.
- $700 GDP per capita (2024).
- 5.6% unemployment rate (2024).
- 10% of GDP allocated to military expenditures (2019).
Government
Eritrea is governed as an authoritarian state with President Isaias Afwerki serving as both head of state and government since its independence. The political landscape is dominated by the People's Front for Democracy and Justice, the only recognized political party. The country has not held national elections since 1991, and its constitution remains unimplemented.
- National Assembly last election was in 1994.
- Citizens can vote at the age of 18.
- 6 administrative regions (zobatat) in the country.
Military and Security
The Eritrean Defense Forces (EDF) are tasked with national defense and military service is mandatory for citizens aged 18-40. The military has been involved in various regional conflicts and is characterized by a significant commitment of national resources.
- 150,000-200,000 active personnel estimated (2025).
- 10.4% of GDP allocated to military services (2016).
- Indefinite conscription for military service after an 18-month obligation.
Energy
Eritrea has made strides in electricity access, though substantial portions of the rural population remain without power. The energy sector is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with developments in solar energy.
- 55.4% of the total population has access to electricity (2022).
- Installed capacity of 243,000 kW (2023).
- 388.987 million kWh of electricity consumption (2023).
Transportation
Eritrea's transportation infrastructure includes limited railways and a small number of airports. The country has two main ports that facilitate its trade activities along the Red Sea.
- 11 airports (2025).
- 306 km of railway (2018).
- 2 main ports: Assab and Mitsiwa Harbor.
Communications
The communications sector is heavily regulated by the government, with limited access to independent media. Mobile and internet usage is growing, albeit from a low base.
- 20% of the population are internet users (2023).
- 2.02 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2022).
- 68,200 fixed-line subscriptions (2022).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,416,435 | 2025 estimate |
| Area | 117,600 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $2.534 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $700 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 5.6% | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity access | 55.4% | 2022 estimate |
| Birth rate | 25.92 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Median age | 21.7 years | 2025 estimate |
| Military expenditures | 10% of GDP | 2019 estimate |
| Urban population | 43.3% | 2023 |
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