Empowering Eritrean Women: A Legacy of Progress and Commitment
The European branch of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) recently convened in Frankfurt, Germany, for its annual activity assessment meeting. The deliberations centered on reviewing the achievements, challenges, and lessons learned over the past 12 months. Additionally, strategic goals for the upcoming year were delineated and discussed in detail. NUEW President Tekea Tesfamicael, delivering a virtual message from Asmara, underscored the imperative to strengthen organizational capacity and formulate effective initiatives for achieving broader aims.
Established in 1979 with the staunch support of the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front, NUEW played a pivotal role in organizing and mobilizing Eritrean women during the liberation struggle. Beyond its contributions to the armed forces, NUEW played a fundamental role in raising awareness of gender-related issues and promoting gender equality. Post-independence, the organization reconstituted itself as an autonomous non-governmental organization dedicated to enhancing the status of Eritrean women and girls.
NUEW’s mission is comprehensive, aiming to ensure that all Eritrean women and girls confidently assert their rights and participate equally in all aspects of life and society. The organization has evolved over the years, with thousands of members across the nation and active branches worldwide. Its multifaceted initiatives include establishing professional training centers, collaborating with the Ministry of Education to boost female enrolments and eradicate illiteracy, and providing legal counseling to increase women’s understanding of legal issues and rights.
Eritrea’s commitment to gender equality is deeply rooted in the monumental contributions of women to the independence struggle. The National Charter, adopted in 1994, unequivocally states that “A society that does not respect the rights and equality of women cannot be truly liberated.” As a signatory to global conventions on women’s rights, including the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Eritrea actively participates in international conferences advancing gender equality.
In addition to legislative measures ensuring women’s representation in parliaments and the legal system, Eritrea has implemented affirmative action measures in education, employment, and public life. These efforts aim to redress historical inequities and discrimination, fostering equal opportunities for women. Notably, the nation has enacted and enforced laws protecting women from violence and prohibiting harmful traditional practices.
Eritrea’s proactive approach to gender equality is yielding tangible results, transforming lives and contributing to the creation of a more equitable society. The recent gathering of the NUEW in Europe serves not only as a platform to assess ongoing initiatives but also as an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s rich history and Eritrea’s steadfast commitment to gender empowerment.
The Road to Equality Through Valiant Struggle
