A Proposal for Eritrea’s National Service Reform

Proposal for Eritrea’s National Service Reform: A Key Step Towards Comprehensive Economic and Social Development

Preamble

Eritrea stands at a pivotal moment in its national development journey. The government recognizes the need for transformative reforms to strengthen the economy, improve the well-being of its citizens, and address long-standing challenges. Reforming the National Service (NS) program is a vital first step in achieving these goals.

While the NS program was originally designed to foster unity, develop a strong work ethic, and instill a sense of shared national responsibility, the realities of the past 18 years—the “cold war” period with Ethiopia—necessitated its prolonged and indefinite nature. This extended service played a crucial role in safeguarding Eritrea’s sovereignty and maintaining national stability during a time of significant external threat.

However, in light of the peace agreement with Ethiopia and the evolving socio-economic needs of the nation, the prolonged nature of NS is no longer required or sustainable. Eritrea now aims to realign its National Service program with its original objectives while addressing the criticisms it has garnered domestically and internationally.

This reform effort is part of a broader framework of economic and social changes, including improving governance, enhancing job opportunities, and expanding access to education and healthcare. These steps are essential to mitigate the exodus of Eritreans to neighboring countries and Europe, which has had significant socio-political and economic implications.

To ensure the successful implementation of this reform, international assistance is paramount. Financial, technical, and diplomatic support from the global community will play a critical role in transitioning the National Service program into a sustainable, time-bound system, while addressing the socio-economic needs of those affected by the changes.

Reform Objectives

1. Transition to an 18-Month National Service Limit: Effective immediately, all NS recruits will serve a maximum of 18 months, aligning with the original program goals.

2. End Sawa-Based High School Final Year Requirement: Students will complete their education within civilian schools, ensuring a stronger focus on academic and vocational development.

3. Integrate Civilian Workers into Regular Employment: Those serving in civilian capacities (e.g., banks, government offices) will transition to private citizens employed under local wage structures.

4. Scale Down the Military: Transition to a professional military force of 40,000–50,000 personnel, supported by a trained reserve system to maintain national security.

5. Develop Vocational and Economic Opportunities: Provide training and employment pathways to ensure a smooth reintegration of demobilized personnel into civilian life.

International Assistance: A Key Enabler

To implement these reforms successfully, Eritrea seeks $300–$500 million in international assistance over a two-year period. This funding will support:

1. Demobilization and Reintegration: Transitional stipends, skills training, and job placement programs for demobilized personnel.

2. Vocational Training and Education: Investment in training centers to prepare youth and demobilized service members for productive civilian roles.

3. Infrastructure Development: Building schools, vocational centers, and transportation networks to support reforms.

4. Professionalizing the Military: Modern training and equipment for the scaled-down professional army.

Why International Support is Critical

Preventing Migration: A reformed National Service program will address key drivers of migration, offering Eritrean youth opportunities at home and reducing the flow of migrants to Europe and neighboring countries.

Improving Governance and Stability: Successful implementation of these reforms will strengthen Eritrea’s governance, improve human rights, and contribute to regional stability.

Promoting Regional Development: Eritrea’s transition can serve as a model for post-conflict reform in the Horn of Africa, fostering stronger economic ties and cooperation with neighbors.

Implementation Timeline

Implementation Timeline

Phase	Timeframe	Key Activities
Phase 1: Planning	Months 1–3	Announce reforms, establish a National Reform Committee, and secure international funding commitments.
Phase 2: Initial Reforms	Months 4–6	Begin capping NS at 18 months, demobilize long-serving personnel, and transition students out of Sawa.
Phase 3: Workforce Integration	Months 7–12	Absorb civilian NS workers into regular employment, launch training programs, and scale down the military.
Phase 4: Full Implementation	Months 13–24	Complete demobilization, finalize military reforms, and evaluate progress with international partners.

Projected Benefits

1. Economic Growth: A skilled workforce and clear employment pathways will drive entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment.

2. Social Stability: Reduced migration pressures and improved public morale will foster a stronger national identity and social cohesion.

3. International Relations: Demonstrating commitment to reforms will enhance Eritrea’s standing with global partners and unlock further development aid.

Conclusion

Reforming the National Service program is not only a response to the challenges of the past but a bold step toward building a brighter future for Eritrea. With international assistance and collective commitment, this reform will serve as a cornerstone for broader economic and social development, fostering a stable, self-reliant, and prosperous Eritrea.

This proposal is not exhaustive and would require reformulation to account for on-the-ground realities. Another critical component to the successful implementation of this program is the active role of the international community in addressing and tempering recent rhetoric by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed regarding access to a sea outlet, including Assab. Such tensions risk undermining the effectiveness of the demobilization process and could potentially reverse the progress made.

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