African News Explained

Youth groups across Europe have launched a campaign to "Stop National Service Slavery in Eritrea".  Every year, thousands of Eritreans are required to work in dire conditions for unspecified periods, which can sometimes run into decades. Campaigners say the National Service is why so many Eritreans put their lives at risk trying to reach Europe via the Sinai desert.  Political scientist Mirjam van Reisen says the European Union should take action against a country which she describes as a "failed state." You can follow Michel Arseneault on Twitter: @miko75011