Swedish Journalist Dawit Isaak Reported to Be Alive After 24 Years in Eritrean Detention

Dawit Isaak, a Swedish journalist who has been imprisoned in Eritrea for 24 years, is believed to be alive, according to Sweden’s Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard, as reported by Swedish broadcaster SVT. Isaak, who holds Swedish citizenship, was detained in Eritrea in 2001 during a crackdown on independent media.

Foreign Minister Stenergard recently visited Eritrea, marking the first official visit by a Swedish minister since Sweden recognised Eritrea’s independence in 1993. The minister indicated that her visit may have improved the prospects for Isaak’s release. However, she did not provide specific details regarding the reasons for believing Isaak is still alive.

The case of Dawit Isaak has drawn international attention over the years, with numerous organisations and governments calling for his release. Eritrea has faced criticism for its human rights record and its treatment of journalists and political prisoners.