Embassy and Permanent Mission of the State of Eritrea in Geneva
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Labor and refugee
Labor and Human Welfare
The Ministry of Labor and Human Welfare aims to ensure “Social Justice and Social Equity” for all citizens irrespective of race, creed, language, ethnicity, and religion. It has a multifaceted responsibility, such as attaining full employment, promoting harmonious labor relations in all sectors of the economy, and ensuring safety, health, and working conditions to the advantage of workers. It also has responsibility for social security, community development, rehabilitation of senior citizens and disabled persons, child care and protection, and family welfare.
Employment: Employment exchange services have been provided in the six regions and urban centers. According to the statistical report of employment exchange offices, 193,171 job seekers have been registered. Out of the registered job seekers, 78,421 have been placed. On average, 12,073 job seekers join the labor market annually, with an annual placement rate of 41%.
As part of the unemployment alleviation program, the Ministry provides services by issuing directives to Eritrean nationals willing to work abroad. Up to now, 11,292 citizens have been allowed to work in foreign countries.
To fill the gaps of varied skilled manpower, work permits are issued to foreign workers, and through this approach, 14,457 foreigners were given work permits. Annually, an average of 807 Eritreans are sent abroad to work, and 1,033 expatriates arrive to work in Eritrea.
Labor Inspection: To protect the safety and health of workers and maintain minimum labor conditions, establishments were inspected routinely and follow-up, as well as special and emergency inspections. Since 1998, 8,098 establishments have been inspected for working conditions.
To prevent industrial illness and accidents, studies have been conducted on basic industrial hygiene and occupational safety and health in textile, tannery, and plastic shoe factories. Moreover, surveys have also been conducted to identify working conditions where special groups such as young people, women, and persons with disabilities are not allowed to work.
Social Security: In 2003, a social security scheme was introduced in Eritrea. According to the proclamation of 2003 social security involves: (i) the National Pension Scheme, (ii), the Public Sector Pension Scheme, (iii) the Martyrs’ Survivors Benefit Scheme. Furthermore, regular employees in civil service between the age ranges of 18-65 are eligible to join the scheme. A rough estimate puts potential contributors at around 70,000 to 80,000. The registered number of persons in the new pension scheme is 22,500, and this does not include the military.
Souce: Shabait