(:source 
  :version  3 
  :ip-address "192.31.181.1"
  :ip-name "quake.think.com"
  :tcp-port 210
  :database-name "/proj/wais/db/sources/unced-agenda"
  :cost 0.00 
  :cost-unit :free 
  :maintainer "wais@quake.think.com"
  :description 
"This is the agenda for the United Nations RIO Summit

                     PREAMBULAR PARAGRAPHS FOR AGENDA 21

                          (Chapter 1 of Agenda 21)

                     PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY THE CHAIRMAN

1.    Humanity stands at a defining moment in its history.  We are
confronted with a perpetuation of disparities between and within nations, a
worsening of poverty, hunger, ill health and illiteracy, and the continuing
deterioration of the ecosystems on which we depend for our well-being. 
However, integration of environment and development concerns, and greater
attention to them will lead to the fulfilment of basic needs, improved
living standards for all, better protected and managed ecosystems and a
safer, more prosperous future.  No nation can achieve this on its own; but
together we can - in a global partnership for sustainable development.

2.    This global partnership must build on the premises of General
Assembly resolution 44/228 of 22 December 1989, which was adopted when the
nations of the world called for the United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development, and on the acceptance of the need to take a
balanced and integrated approach to environnment and development questions.

3.    Agenda 21 addresses the pressing problems of today and also aims at
preparing the world for the challenges of the next century.  It reflects a
global consensus and [political commitment at the highest level] on
development and environment cooperation.  Its successful implementation is
first and foremost the responsibility of Governments. 1/  National
strategies, plans, policies and processes are crucial in achieving this. 
International cooperation should support and supplement such national
efforts.  In this context, the United Nations system has a key role to
play.  Other international, regional and sub-regional organizations are
also called upon to contribute to this effort.  The broadest public
participation and the active involvement of the non-governmental
organizations and other groups should also be encouraged.

4.   [The developmental and environmental objectives of Agenda 21 will
require a substantial flow of new and additional financial resources to
countries in need, particularly to developing countries in order to cover
the incremental costs for the actions they have to undertake to deal with
global environmental problems and to accelerate sustainable development. 
Financial resources are also required for strengthening the capacity of
international institutions for the implementation of Agenda 21.  An
indicative order-of-magnitude assessment of costs is included in each of
the programme areas.  This assessment will need to be examined and refined
by the relevant implementing agencies and organizations.]

5.   The programme areas that constitute Agenda 21 are described in terms
of the Basis for action, Objectives, Activities and Means of
implementation.  Agenda 21 is a dynamic programme.  It will be carried out
by the various actors according to the different situations, capacities and
priorities of countries and regions.  It could evolve over time in the
light of changing needs and circumstances.  This process marks the

beginning of a new global partnership for sustainable development.

     1/   When the term Governments is used, it will be deemed to include
the European Economic Community within the areas of its competence.
"
)
