Written question asked by Lord Patten (Conservative) on Monday, 29 November 2021, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 December 2021. It was answered by Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park (Conservative) on Tuesday, 7 December 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Eritrea: Christianity

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the freedom of religion for Christians in Eritrea.

Answer: The UK Government frequently voices our concern about arbitrary arrests and detentions in Eritrea, including on the basis of religion or belief. We have called for release of such worshippers, directly with the Government of Eritrea, and publicly - through our annual reporting on human rights, at the UN Human Rights Council, and on 25 October through our statement at the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Eritrea during the third committee of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly. There has been no progress with Eritrea's implementation of its 2019 Universal Periodic Review recommendations, including those promoting Freedom of Religion or Belief.

Secondary information