Swedish Prize awarded to Eritrean-Swedish Journalist held in Eritrea for 23 Years
Dawit Isaak, an Eritrean-Swedish journalist detained without trial since 2001, has received the prestigious Edelstam Prize for his enduring commitment to freedom of expression, despite decades in detention.
Isaak, co-founder of Eritrea’s first independent newspaper, Setit, was among dozens arrested in a government crackdown on dissent that silenced media and calls for democratic reform.
The Edelstam Foundation, which grants the award for « exceptional courage in defense of human rights, » praised Isaak’s « indefatigable courage, » calling him the longest-held journalist in the world without trial.
His detention symbolizes Eritrea’s suppression of independent media, with Isaak’s paper shut down under claims of « national security. »
Caroline Edelstam, chair of the Edelstam Prize jury, highlighted the lack of information on Isaak’s health and whereabouts, condemning his isolation from legal representation and family. »
This enforced disappearance has robbed him of fundamental rights, » she said. Isaak’s daughter, Bethlehem, will accept the award on his behalf at a Stockholm ceremony on November 19.
The Edelstam Foundation urged Eritrean authorities to disclose Isaak’s location and allow access to legal counsel, while also appealing to the international community to press for his release.
Eritrea remains under the single-party rule of President Isaias Afwerki, with no elections since independence and an absolute clampdown on private media.
Source: bbc.com
