The Eritrean Deaf Society in Europe (EDSE) operates under the Eritrean National Association of the Deaf (EriNAD), with its head office located in Asmara, Eritrea, in East Africa. Founded in 1998 in Asmara, EriNAD is a non-profit organisation that provides services to deaf and hard-of-hearing Eritreans. There are approximately 40.000 deaf individuals in the country. many of whom live without access to education. 80% do not have access to education, while only 20% receive schooling with sign language. The mission of EriNAD is to uphold equality and human rights by striving to ensure that deaf individuals are treated with the same respect and dignity as hearing individuals. EriNAD is committed to empowering the deaf community b working to improve their quality of life through access to essential services. EDSE and EriNAD work closely together, exchanging ideas and collaborating on initiatives to create more opportunities and enhance services for the deaf community, helping them achieve their full  potential.

Overview of Deaf People and Sign Language Needs

Deaf people form a unique linguistic minority with their own language, culture, and social needs. Sign language is essential for their full participation in society and is used widely in education, and social services. Eritrean Deaf people use a Tigrinya-based sign language that combines elements of Finnish and Swedish sign languages but lacks standardisation.

Key Focus Areas of EriNAD (Eritrean National Deaf Association)

1. Social Rights: Ensuring access to services and special aids, with sign language as a primary means of interpretation across sectors.
2. Employment: Promoting workplace equality, training, and interpretation services for Deaf workers.
3. Education: Advocating for sign language in all educational settings and supporting teachers in total communication methods.
4. Culture and Leisure: Organizing Deaf events, sports, and recreational activities, with support from local sports commissions.
5. Media and Technology: Developing sign language media content, introducing Deaf-centered films, and raising awareness of Deaf culture.
6. International Engagement: Building relationships with international Deaf organizations and promoting Deaf awareness abroad.

Development Initiatives

       EriNAD aims to:

• Create an Eritrean Sign Language dictionary.
• Train sign language teachers and interpreters.
• Establish employment and community projects.
• Build a permanent Deaf community center.
• Increase participation in decision-making, education, and sports.

Financial Support Needs

EriNAD relies on membership fees and contributions but seeks additional support to fully implement projects that advance Deaf rights, education, and independent living.