admin28 February – 1 March 2026
The Central Council of the Eritrean Unity for Democratic Change (EUDC) held its Seventh Regular Session from 28 February to 1 March 2026. The Council conducted an in-depth discussion of major international, regional, and national developments, along with a comprehensive assessment of the situation within the Eritrean pro-justice and pro-democracy camp, as well as a review of the political and organizational performance of the movement during the past period.
The session concluded with a set of political assessments and organizational decisions aimed at strengthening the role of the organization in the national struggle to end authoritarian rule and build a democratic state in Eritrea.
1. International Developments
The Council followed with deep concern the rapidly escalating situation in the Middle East, marked by large-scale military confrontations and the growing risk of a wider regional or even international conflict. The Council believes that the intensifying polarization among major global powers threatens to expand existing conflicts and further destabilize the international system. The Council also emphasized that these accelerating global shifts will have direct repercussions on our region, particularly in light of the growing geopolitical competition over maritime routes and strategic locations.
2. Regional Transformations in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa
The Red Sea and Horn of Africa region is witnessing a rapid reconfiguration of power balances and regional alliances. In recent months, a clear competition has emerged between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates over political and economic influence in the region. This rivalry is reflected in several sensitive regional files, including Yemen, Somalia, and the broader Horn of Africa, where regional powers are seeking to expand their military, economic, and political presence. This dynamic adds further complexity to the regional landscape and threatens the stability of the area.
3. The Deepening Crisis in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is undergoing an extremely complex phase due to escalating internal conflicts and the widening scope of armed confrontations in several regions. Political tensions in Oromia and Amhara have evolved into large-scale military clashes that threaten the unity and stability of the country. Other regions are also experiencing persistent security instability amid a severe economic crisis and worsening living conditions for citizens. The Council believes that the Ethiopian government is attempting to export its internal crises by manufacturing external disputes—most notably the issue of access to the sea and ports—leading to heightened tensions with neighboring countries, including Eritrea, Somalia, and Djibouti.
4. The Devastating War in Sudan
Sudan continues to suffer from a destructive war that threatens the unity of the state and exposes its people to an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. The ongoing fighting has displaced millions and caused extensive destruction of infrastructure. The country has also become an arena for competing regional interests, further complicating the crisis, prolonging the conflict, and deepening the suffering of the Sudanese people.
5. The Internal Situation in Eritrea
The Council affirmed that conditions in Eritrea continue to deteriorate due to the authoritarian policies of the ruling regime led by Isaias Afwerki, who maintains control through repression and intimidation in the absence of political freedoms and under continued militarization of society. The prevailing regional instability provides the regime with a pretext to persist in its militarized policies and crisis-exporting behavior instead of responding to the Eritrean people’s demands for freedom and justice.
6. Tasks of the Next Phase and Strengthening National Action
Following a comprehensive assessment of the current situation, the Council stressed the need to strengthen organizational structures and enhance political performance to enable the movement to play a more effective role in the coming period. The Council also reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to joint action with all national forces to strengthen the democratic change camp and reinforce its political and organizational presence.
7. Toward a National Unity Framework for Forces of Change
The Council considers the establishment of an inclusive national umbrella for Eritrean political forces an urgent national priority that cannot be delayed. In this context, the Council welcomed initiatives aimed at preparing a joint national document that would serve as a foundation for unifying the national ranks.
The Council also affirmed the organization’s readiness to contribute effectively to the success of the Second Conference of Eritrean Political Forces and to expand coordination and cooperation among forces of democratic change.
8. Dialogue with the Eritrean Unity Organization
The Council welcomed the progress achieved in the ongoing dialogue with the Eritrean Unity Organization, noting that the discussions are moving positively toward expanding areas of cooperation and joint action. Both sides agreed to establish joint mechanisms for coordination and political engagement on issues of mutual concern, while continuing efforts to achieve full organizational unity in the near future.
In Conclusion, the Central Council reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the Eritrean Unity for Democratic Change to continue the political struggle alongside all national forces to end authoritarian rule and build a democratic state based on the rule of law and respect for human rights in Eritrea. The Council calls on all forces of change to overcome secondary differences, unify the national ranks in confronting the authoritarian regime, and work collectively to fulfill the aspirations of the Eritrean people for freedom and dignity.
Glory and eternal honor to our martyrs
Our unity is the guarantee of our victory
Central Council
Eritrean Unity for Democratic Change (EUDC)
1 March 2026
