ICERAS

In this report on Eritrean refugees with a residence permit in the Netherlands, the Netherlands Institute for Social Research examines the backgrounds and experiences of this newcomer group. The report reveals considerable distance between newly arrived Eritreans and Dutch society.

The main motive among Eritreans for fleeing their country is to escape mandatory conscription without an end date. The journeys of Eritreans to the Netherlands are full of danger and hardship. Exploitation, ill-treatment, and (sexual) violence are common along the way.

Immediately after arrival, the biggest worry of Eritreans concerns family reunification, which is often difficult. They feel responsible for family members in Eritrea or refugee camps in the region. This inhibits their participation and integration in the Netherlands. readmore