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But the biggest question for many is whether there will be a change to a mandatory national service program that includes a period of military training before recruits are channeled in jobs ranging from the hotel receptionist to the government official. The border war with Ethiopia lasted 18 months, but recruits are prohibited from traveling without authorization.
Eritrea says the plan promotes national unity – but the United Nations compared it to slavery and hundreds of thousands of Eritreans fled their country, claiming to fear persecution or retribution related to the program.
"We lost so many friends and family members," said Feven Ghbru, a 20-year-old art student
. 10 of her friends and relatives left "to avoid poverty and find other family members," she added. "Maybe if everything changes, they will stop talking about Europe."
Biniam Tikue, 29, is completing her national service teaching at an art school, and said that many young people feel trapped in Eritrea. "We can not go to another country, if we want to show our art, we have to send it," she said.
The government defended compulsory service and other repressive policies restricting freedom of expression and political opposition to counter the perceived threat of Ethiopia.
"Everyone understands the situation with Ethiopia," said Yared Yemane, 29, who serves his national service as a football player. "But maybe if we were at peace, nobody would want it, so maybe that would change."
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