Designation of Eritrea as a CPC required the Bush administration to take specific policy action by March 15, which did not happen.

The International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 allows for a 90-day extension for the President to take action, such as economic sanctions. Write congressional representatives and the State Department urging the administration to do so: Condoleezza Rice, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20520.

Release Eritrea's Asmelash also says Christians should urge the U.S. government to pressure the Eritrean government to allow international observers—such as the International Red Cross and U.N. and U.S. delegations—to visit prisons.

Article 19 of the Eritrean constitution allows for freedom of religion and assembly. Human-rights organizations suggest noting this when writing Eritrean officials. Politely expressing your deep concern about the harsh treatment of Christians, also point out that Article 17 of the Eritrean constitution stipulates the right to a fair and public trial and the presumption of innocence.

His Excellency Mr. Girma Asmerom
Embassy of Eritrea
1708 New Hampshire Ave. NW
Washington, D.C., 20009
202.319.1991
Fax: 202.319.1304
E-mail: veronica@embassyeritrea.org

Mr. Isaias Afwerki
President of Eritrea
P.O. Box 257
Asmara, Eritrea

Pray for an end to the repression, release of those held captive, and reconciliation among Eritrea's various churches.