The sudden peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and the opening of their previously closed and dangerous border, sent shockwaves of hope and optimism throughout the two countries. But a new issue has arisen: whether Eritreans coming into Ethiopia should still be classed as refugees. Here a minibus stops for a lunch break during its 300-kilometer journey between Mekelle, the Tigray capital, and the Eritrean capital, Asmara. I can feel the agony of isolation they have endured; I have lots of friends whose families were separated by the war.” Credit: James Jeffrey/IPSPeace—but also prosperity? “Eritreans are experiencing freedom—the genie is out of the bottle.” Credit: James Jeffrey/IPS*Some names have been changed or omitted due to the requests of those interviewed.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 28, 2019 11:08 UTC