The Dream Becomes a Reality?

In 1991 a new country emerged in Africa after a bloody 30 year war. The tiny country of Eritrea rejoiced in victory over its Soviet-backed adversary, Ethiopia. The credit for overcoming such incredible odds at the face of an immense military disadvantage goes to the Eritrean People's Liberation Front. The EPLF was a unique movement, especially regarding the position of women. Women comprised one-third of the front line fighting force and held positions of leadership and influence.

Careful consideration was given to women in the structuring of the EPLF and its vision of a free Eritrean society. Both men and women were imbued with a sense of gender equality in the movement and taught and encouraged this attitude to the populace. Now with Eritrea's new-found independence, the women who fought alongside men for the liberation of their country, are confronting traditional gender roles and discrimination.

Anthropologist and film maker, Eve Egensteiner, interviewed some of these women in Eritrea's capital city Asmara. They are working in the media, arts and research - positions traditionally not filled by women in Eritrea. They are acutely aware of the struggle that lies ahead, and offer insight into the role of the new Eritrean woman.

Available in English, VHS PAL - 45 minutes

Produced by Eva Egensteiner