African News Explained

Italy's navy has rescued 233 migrants from a boat off the island of Lampedusa. As is often the case they include a number of Eritrean youths. Eritreans have been fleeing their country to avoid the so-called National Service under which they live and work in dire conditions for years. Meron Estefanos, an Eritrean-born Swedish broadcaster and researcher, has interviewed many migrants whom she calls "hostages." She comments on their long trek to Europe via Egypt's Sinai desert. You can follow Michel Arseneault on Twitter: @miko75011