Eritrea is a country in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, with a long coastline along the Red Sea. Its capital and largest city is Asmara. The population is estimated at around 6.2 million, with Tigrinya speakers forming about half, and the main religions being Christianity and Islam.

Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a prolonged war. Since independence, it has been governed as a one-party state and is characterized by a highly militarized society. The economy is largely based on agriculture, livestock, and some mining and manufacturing. Eritrea’s recent history includes severe periods of drought, conflict, and ongoing border disputes with Ethiopia.

The country is one of Africa’s poorest and has seen significant outmigration in recent years.