In the summer of 2023, Eritrean Government-sponsored Diaspora Festivals have been the center of attention in many western countries. At these many festivals, supporters and opponents of the Eritrean government have clashed, leading to violence and termination of festivals by host countries in Europe, the UK, Canada, USA and Israel.
After September 2 clashes in Tel Aviv, Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said “We want harsh measures against the rioters, including the immediate deportation of those who took part.”
Yemane G. Meskel – Eritrea’s Minister of Information stated in his latest on X, formerly known as Twitter, “Eritrean festivals are targeted because they promote national cohesion; strengthen Eritreans’ ties with the homeland; & ultimately reveal that the negative narrative is hollow & groundless.” Many Eritrean government opponents disagree, claiming that the festivals prop up dictatorship in Eritrea and disturb their peace in their host country.
We invite you to join us for a live webinar on Saturday, September 23 at 10:00 am California, 1 pm New York, 6 pm Eritrea, 7 pm Cape Town. Eritrean diaspora professionals with different views will discuss the current developments. Representative of the Eritrean government have also been invited to participate. Please follow the webinar at ERISAT, SETIT Media or ASSENNA TV on the date and time listed above.
For more information or to submit questions for the panelists in advance, send an email to Meron Semedar, meronsemedar@berkeley.edu.
