PUBLIC AI Index: EUR 42/007/2008

12 November 2008

Further Information on UA 304/08 (EUR 42/006/2008, 31 October 2008) Forcible return/ torture

SWEDEN Terhas Mlash Abraha (f), aged 40

On 31 October, a representative of the United Nations'Committee Against Torture (CAT) requested that Sweden does not return Terhas Mlash Abrahato Eritrea whilst the CAT is considering her case. She was released from detention on the same day and there is no present risk that she will face forced return to Eritrea.

Terhas Mlash Abraha would be at risk of arbitrary detention and torture in Eritrea because she evaded compulsory military service; and also for seeking asylum abroad, which the Eritrean authorities regard as betrayal of the country.

Sweden is a state party to the Convention against Torture, which obliges the government not to return anyone to a country where they would be at risk of torture. According to UNHCR (the UN refugee agency) guidelines, governments should not forcibly return rejected asylum-seekers to Eritrea, because of its record of serious human rights violations.

Many thanks to all who sent appeals. No further action is requested from the UA network. Amnesty International will continue to monitor the situation, and take further campaigning action as necessary.