Eritrea 1997 Constitution

CHAPTER II. NATIONAL OBJECTIVES and DIRECTIVE PRINCIPLES

Article 6. National Unity and Stability

1. As the people and government strive to establish a united and advanced country, within the context of the diversity of Eritrea, they shall be guided by the basic principle “unity in diversity.”
2. The State shall, through participation of all citizens, ensure national stability and development by encouraging democratic dialogue and national consensus; and by laying a firm political, cultural and moral foundation of national unity and social harmony.
3. The State shall ensure peaceful and stable conditions by establishing appropriate participatory institutions that guarantee and hasten equitable economic and social progress.

Article 7. Democratic Principles

1. It is a fundamental principle of the State of Eritrea to guarantee its citizens broad and active participation in all political, economic, social and cultural life of the country.
2. Any act that violates the human rights of women or limits or otherwise thwarts their role and participation is prohibited.
3. There shall be established appropriate institutions to encourage and develop people’s initiative and participation in their communities.
4. Pursuant to the provisions of this Constitution and laws enacted pursuant thereto, all Eritreans, without distinction, are guaranteed equal opportunity to participate in any position of leadership in the country.
5. The conduct of the affairs of government and all organizations and institutions shall be accountable and transparent.
6. The organization and operation of all political, public associations and movements shall be guided by the principles of national unity and democracy.
7. The State shall create conditions necessary for developing a democratic political culture defined by free and critical thinking, tolerance and national consensus.

Article 8. Economic and Social Development

1. The State shall strive to create opportunities to ensure the fulfillment of citizens’ rights to social justice and economic development and to fulfill their material and spiritual needs.
2. The State shall work to bring about a balanced and sustainable development throughout the country, and shall use all available means to enable all citizens to improve their livelihood in a sustainable manner, through their participation.
3. In the interest of present and future generations, the State shall be responsible for managing all land, water, air and natural resources and for ensuring their management in a balanced and sustainable manner; and for creating the right conditions to secure the participation of the people in safeguarding the environment.

Article 9. National Culture

1. The State shall be responsible for creating and promoting conditions conducive for developing a national culture capable of expressing national identity, unity and progress of the Eritrean people.
2. The State shall encourage values of community solidarity and love and respect of the family.
3. The State shall promote the development of the arts, science, technology and sports and shall create an enabling environment for individuals to work in an atmosphere of freedom and to manifest their creativity and innovation.

Article 10. Competent Justice System

1. The justice system of Eritrea shall be independent, competent and accountable pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution and laws.
2. Courts shall work under a judicial system that is capable of producing quick and equitable judgments and that can easily be understood by and is accessible to all the people.3 Judges shall be free from corruption or discrimination and, in rendering their judgment, they shall make no distinction among persons.
3. The State shall encourage equitable out-of-court settlement of disputes through conciliation, mediation or arbitration.

Article 11. Competent Civil Service

1. The Civil Service of Eritrea shall have efficient, effective and accountable administrative institutions dedicated to the service of the people.
2. All administrative institutions shall be free from corruption, discrimination and delay in the delivery of efficient and equitable public services.

Article 12. National Defense and Security

1. The defense and security forces of Eritrea shall owe allegiance to and obey the Constitution and the government established thereunder.
2. The defense and security forces are an integral part of society, and shall be productive and respectful of the people.
3. The defense and security forces shall be competent and be subject to and accountable under the law.
4. The defense and security of Eritrea depend on the people and on their active participation.

Article 13. Foreign Policy

The foreign policy of Eritrea is based on respect for state sovereignty and independence and on promoting the interest of regional and international peace, cooperation, stability and development.