and established people to people relationships in their respective areas of mandate. While continuous effort has been made by national organizations to get international and regional ECOSOC status, only the Associations of the Blind and Diabetes have secured status at Africa level. Hence, much more needs to be done in this respect. Freedom of Expression 72. The fundamental principle in the National Charter, Eritrea‟s Constitution of 1997 and the national codes and proclamations is that citizens have the right for lawful expression and opinion without interference. Citizens are both participants and beneficiaries of information and ideas and the ground is leveled without discrimination. This, however, demands responsibility from every citizen and is related to the collective interest of the nation and the society. Hence, it is bound by Eritrean Law and demands protection of national security, public order and the basic values of the nation as well as respect to others. 73. In this regard, public media has been strengthened and reflects the truth and reality of national development. It has cultivated progressive thinking, transformational culture and reliable information instrumental to a knowledge society. Furthermore, it helped to consolidate the responsible participation of every citizen. On the other hand regional and international issues and development are also covered on a daily basis. Hence, the contribution of Eritrea‟s media establishment to the freedom of expression is ascertained by its democratic nature. Accordingly, radio programmes are available in all Eritrean languages and TV programmes broadcast in Tigrigna, Tigre, Arabic and English. Presentations in other local languages are also integrated into the available programmes. In general, continuous effort is going on to expand and strengthen the radio and TV programmes. Print Media is also emerging as an important dimension of this development. Official newspapers in four languages (Tigrigna, Tigre, Arabic and English) are widely circulated. Various magazines with specific purposes published by various ministries, agencies and national associations and civic organizations are also flourishing. 74. Eritrean media facilities and programmes cater for a wider public participation. They are a platform for critical reflection, constructive opinion and knowledge. Extensive discussions and opinions on government policies, development, administration, justice, values, arts, culture and sports, international affairs, etc. are promoted. They have phone call programmes where citizens express their opinions and criticism. Individuals with significance in imparting influence and information are also invited in the radio and TV panel discussions. There are also thematic issues that impinge on fundamental rights, the social fabrics and related rights, such as women equality, FGM/C and early marriage, child upbringing and protection, the reintegration of disabled, youth empowerment, etc. 75. To promote free Expression through cultural works, the government encourages the production and distribution of various cultural contributions. Many writers have continuously produced and circulated books, literary works (in most Eritrean languages), historical Page 21 of 100