Freedom of expression 11. The Committee notes that the State Party has enacted provisions safeguarding freedom of expression. The Committee is however concerned that the report does not indicate how this right is made accessible to children. The Committee therefore recommends that the State Party take urgent measures to implement structures such as children’s clubs and a children’s parliament to provide a forum for children to take part in decisions affecting them. The Committee also recommends that the State Party ensure that judicial and administrative actions guarantee that children are heard in issues affecting them. Freedom of Association 12. The report illustrates that there exists in the territory of the State Party, the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students (NUEYS), which participates in social and economic activities affecting young people. The Committee is however concerned that despite Article 19 of the Constitution which ensures freedom of association, the Constitution is yet to be implemented, as such there currently exists no legal provision safeguarding this freedom. The Committee therefore recommends that the State Party as a matter of urgency, implement measures safeguarding this principle ensuring children have access to it. The Committee also recommends that the NUEYS is decentralised and available throughout Eritrea and the State Party guarantees its independence and adequate funding to ensure its proper functioning. The Committee further recommends that the State Party ensure children from different backgrounds are represented and eligible to be elected to the NUEYS. Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion 13. The Committee notes that Article 14 of the Transitional Civil Code guarantees the right of all persons to think and express their ideas. Besides, the yet to be implemented Constitution also prohibits religious discrimination and provide for freedom of thought, conscience, and belief and the freedom to practice any religion. However, it was brought to the attention of the Committee that despite the existence of the legal protection, children of particular religious groups are not able to enjoy the benefits of this right. A particular concern in this regard are children who belong to the Jehovah Witnesses, as they particularly face harsh treatment. The Committee therefore recommends that the State Party recognise and fully implement a child’s Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion with no discrimination. E. Family environment and alternative care Parental Responsibilities and protection of children 14. The Committee notes the existence of laws which ensure that since parents are the custodians of the child, they shoulder all responsibilities of guardian and 5