(ii) The Right and responsibility of the Public to Strengthen Governance 26. An important aim of the nation building process is state building and above all involves building legal, political, social and administrative institutions of state. This in particular entails strengthening people‟s democratic rights, responsible participation and the power to be active in the building the functions of the State. The people-power-participation nexus is thus the embodiment for State building in Eritrea. The Legislation Process and Public Knowledge 27. During the reporting period the legislation process has matured more and the supervision of their development has been stronger. Most importantly their final endorsement in conformity to the Transitional Codes has also become more reliable. In this respect, the consultation and appraisal in all forms has also improved. Accordingly, 146 proclamations and legal notices have been enacted during the reporting period. The publication and dissemination of all legislations in the Gazzette of Eritrean Laws and their dissemination through media outlets has consolidated popular awareness on rights and responsibilities. They are also available and sold publicly in nominal fees. Various forums for consultations, awareness and to instill responsibility in the wider population have also laid a favorable ground for implementation. People’s Power for Democratic Rights and Participation 28. The responsible participation of citizens in public affairs is an important feature in the political process of nation building. Hence, their participation in the process and implementation of national laws, defense, security, development, etc. is instrumental in consolidating State functions. Furthermore, the right to elect and be elected in the assemblies at all levels is respected and protected on the basis of Proclamation 86/1996. Accordingly, the citizens living in each of the six administrative regions are represented by members of elected assemblies. Through regular yearly meetings, the elected members at each level assess the situation and issue guidelines to the local and regional administrations. They also represent their constituency in national policy and development issues and serve as a means through which the demands and needs of the people are communicated to higher authorities. 29. The role of the people in state building through elected representatives has evolved. However, further strengthening of the institutional capacity and organizational basis of the assemblies still remains a major task. Furthermore, and as has been mentioned earlier, existential external threats have adversely affected the pace of the political process. Local Governance as a solid base of the State 30. Proclamation 86/1996 established the six administrative regions of the State. It also promoted prospects for the gradual process of devolution of certain responsibilities to the regional administrations. Furthermore, it strengthened the dynamics of development, ensured equal Page 8 of 100