major obstacles which affect the prospects of change and rendering it slow and gradual. The Government of Eritrea, however, has shown strong commitment and political will to promote equality and eradicate existing discrimination as it considers the equal participation of women essential for development and the establishment of a just society. (v) Labor rights and Work Conditions Equal rights and employment/recruitment 211. The Transitional Codes and the Labor Proclamation of Eritrea (No. 118/2001) have provided protection and avoided discrimination in labor opportunities. It must be noted that continuous effort has been made to implement the Labor Proclamation which repealed all the proclamations that were enacted before. The labor law is a progressive instrument that has been tested in practice to strike the balance between economic prosperity and fundamental workers‟ rights. It also reflects the essence of the core International Labor Organization (ILO) conventions of Eritrea is party to. In line to the international labor conventions on decent work, job opportunities and social justice, the Government acceded to seven conventions (out of eight core conventions). On the other hand, there is unwarranted concern about worst form of child labor but preparation is underway to ratify the eighth convention i.e. the worst form of child labor convention (No.182). 212. The labor situation, as all other matters, is seen in the context of the prevailing situation of the nation. The fact is that the whole nation is mobilized and organized in the post-war development campaign to work and contribute through collective efforts and burden sharing responsibility for national development and survival in the situation of existential external threats. This is a prime consideration and necessity of national security and impinges into all aspects of life, working conditions, deployment and employment prospects. Nevertheless, in accordance to article 118 (7) of the Labor Proclamation, the right to work is respected and protected. Accordingly, job seekers may apply for a job to the employment services unit of the Ministry of Labor and Human Welfare (MoLHW), or to a private employment agency, or directly to the employer in accordance to Article 5 of the Proclamation. The regulation of private employment agencies is, however, still in the drafting process, and hence the freely chosen employment by every individual continues through the other two methods. 213. In the above context, the overarching goals and strategies of the MoLHW is promotion of decent work that ascertains employment and recruitment rights. The department of Labor with its three pillars is hence, uniformly distributed throughout the country. It focuses on promoting the Government policies and strategies. Labor unions have been registered and collective agreements have been established. Resolving labor disputes through conciliation, arbitration and adjudication of cases have also been instituted in all regions of the country. Moreover, employment services and labor inspection systems have guaranteed equal opportunity and continue to monitor working conditions as well as occupational safety and health. There are also 45 health and safety committees at the workplace. Page 51 of 100