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Eritrea has one of the highest per-capita displacement rates in the world. As of 2025–2026, it is estimated that approximately 15% to 20% of the total Eritrean-born population lives as refugees or asylum seekers abroad.
The situation is often described as a "mass exodus," driven primarily by the country's system of indefinite national service and political repression. 
Key Figures and Percentages
• Total Displaced Abroad: As of early 2026, approximately 580,000 to 683,000 Eritreans are officially registered as refugees or asylum seekers worldwide.
• Percentage of Population: This represents roughly 17% to 19% of the domestic population (which is estimated at ~3.6 million). If the broader diaspora (those who left decades ago or have since gained citizenship elsewhere) is included, some estimates suggest one-third (33%) of all Eritrean-born people live outside the country.
• Annual Rate: In recent years (2023–2024), roughly 71,000 people have fled annually. This equates to about 1.9% to 2% of the remaining population leaving every single year.
Where Are They Fleeing?
The majority of Eritrean refugees remain in neighboring countries, though many attempt the dangerous journey to Europe or North America.