EU Aviation Safety: The EU updated its Air Safety List: Kyrgyzstan’s certified air carriers were removed after safety oversight improvements, while Air Express Algeria was added and barred from operating in the EU over serious safety concerns. World Cup Travel Friction: A Somali referee picked for the 2026 World Cup, Omar Abdulkadir Artan, was denied US entry after extra inspection, highlighting how stricter immigration rules and visa hurdles are disrupting African travel plans for major tournaments. Asylum & Mobility in Europe: Portugal saw asylum applications drop 37% in 2025 (2,797 to 1,763), while pending cases rose sharply and Eritreans were among those granted protection. Domestic Work Hiring in Kuwait: Kuwait approved domestic worker recruitment from just 10 countries, including Eritrea, with other nations restricted or banned. Regional Travel Risk: The Bab el-Mandab strait—between Yemen and the Horn of Africa (including Eritrea)—faces renewed disruption risk as regional actors threaten to block navigation, a concern for shipping and travel routes. Sporting Events: Eastern Africa U18/U20 athletics championships in Arusha were postponed indefinitely due to the Ebola outbreak in parts of Uganda and DR Congo. Tourism Safety Note: A report on fire safety violations at B&Bs in Hauz Rani flagged dangerous licensing and operations—relevant for travelers booking budget stays. UNICEF Diplomacy: UNICEF’s Executive Board delegation met Eritrea’s UN representative during a visit focused on child protection and tackling malnutrition.