INTRODUCTION TO THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY·GENER~L\.L ON THE WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION

September 1968

GENERAL ASSEMBLY OFFICIAL RECORDS: TWENTY·THIRD SESSION SUPPLEMENT No. IA (A/720 1/Add.l)

UNITED NATIONS ( 28 p.)

INTRODUCTION TO THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ON THE WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION

Septembel- 1968

GENERAL ASSEMBLY OFFICIAL RECORDS: TWENTY·THIRD SESSION SUPPLEMENT No. IA (A/720 I/ Add. I)

UNITED NATIONS New York, 1968 NOTE Symbols of United Nations documents are composed of capital letters com­ bined with figures. Mention of such a symbol indicates a refcrcnce to a United Nations document. CONTENTS

Page I. General ".""""".""", .. "",.',.".".".""" .. ""." .... ".. "... """ 1 11. Disarmament " "." .. "."""""""""" .. " """"."" .. """."""."... 2 Ill. Outer spncc 4 IV. Peace-keeping...... 5 V. Economic and social development 7 VI. Hutnan rights 13 VII. Apartheid 15 VIII. Decolonization 16 IX. Public information 18 X. Other questions ;...... 19 XI. Concluding observations ...... 20

iii

Introduction

I. General article 17 of the Agreement of 15 August 1962, my representative "will carry out the Secretary-General's 1. I noted in the introduction to the annual report responsibilities to advise, assist and participate in last year that the international situation at that time arrangements which are the responsibility of Indonesia had not only not improved, but had in fact deteriorated for the act of free choice". Thus, with the co-operation considerably. In general, the deterioration has con­ of the Indonesian Government, the remaining provisions tinued throughout the past year. There has been no of the Agreement which brought to an end the dispute proO'ress towards peace in Viet-Nam and the military between the Republic of Indonesia and the Kingdom conflict is continuing with unabated ferocity, while of the Netherlands concerning West Irian will, I hope, every passing day reinforces my conviction that this be fulfilled within the time specified in the Agreement. problem cannot be solved by military means. The initial I shall, of course, report to the General Assembly at promise of the Paris talks between the representatives the conclusion of my representative's mission to West of the Democratic People's Republic of Viet-Nam and Irian. the United States of America is fading away. In the Middle East, the year has been one of continuing 5. Within the Organization itself, once again I find tension and frustration. The most recent developments it necessary to report with regret that the financial in Czechoslovakia have cast a long shadow and created difficulties are no nearer solution. In fact, the Organiza­ a feeling of uneasiness and insecurity which will take tion's financial position deteriorated during the past determination and sustained effort to overcome. year in that net liquid assets-eash and investments plus current accounts receivable less current accounts 2. Some limited progress has been made in disarma­ payable-decreased by $15.3 million between 30 June ment, where the outstanding event during the year 1967 and 30 June 1968. Unpaid contributions assessed was the conclusion of the Treaty on the Non-Prolifera­ on Member States in respect of the regular budget tion of Nuclear Weapons. The Conference of Non­ increased during the period by $20.5 million, while Nuclear-Weapon States is still in session at the time there was a decrease of $2 million in respect of the of writing .and one can only hope that it may lead to Special Account for the United Nations Emergency some positive results. In the field of outer space and Force and the amount in respect of the Ad H QC human rights, two major international conferences have Account for the United Nations Operation in the Congo been held during the past year and their deliberations remained unchanged. The unpaid assessments for the are reviewed elsewhere. In the field of economic and three accounts as of 30 June 1968 totalled $260.7 social development, the second session of the United million, an increase of $18.5 million over the previous Nations Conference on Trade and Development has not year. lived up to the high hopes and great expectations that 6. Moreover, the amount of cash on hand plus the participants, especially from the developing coun­ short-term. investments which could be readily converted tries, brought to it. to cash decreased during the twelve-month period from 3. The frustrations to which I have referred every $15.8 million to $7.6 million, the latter figure represent­ year in respect of the chronL~ problems in the field of ing less than one month's cash requirements for regular decolonization, apartheid and other problems which budget activities. have so' long persisted in Africa south of the equator, in defiance of the United Nations, have continued and 7. No additional pledges of voluntary contributions deepened. These problems are also dealt with in greater were made during this period to assist the Organization detail elsewhere in this introduction. out of its financial difficulties, although a payment of approximately $1.5 million was received from one 4. I referred last year to the progress made in regard Government with regard to an earlier pledge. to the discharge of the responsibilities of the Uni~ed Nations in West Irian. As I noted then, the IndoneSIan 8. As of 30 June 1968, the Working Capital Fund Government had given me assurances that it would had been depleted principally because of the necessity comply fully with the remaining responsibilities con­ to make advances of $27.3 million to finance regular cerning West Irian deriving from the Agreement signed budgetary expenditures pending the receipt of assessed on 15 August 1962 by the Republic of Indonesia and contributions and advances of $11.9 million to the the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Pursuant to these United Nations Emergency Force Special Account. assurances, I appointed Mr. Fernando Ortiz-Sanz as 9. The figures given above relate only to the regular my representative for the "act of free choice" by the budget and to peace-keeping operations financed in inhabitants of West Irian. Mr. Ortiz-Sanz, together whole or in part by assessed contributions. They do with his initial staff, arrived in Djakarta on 12 August not take into account an estimated deficit of about 1968 for consultations with the Indonesian Government $8.7 million as of 26 June 1968 in respect of the United on the arrangements and modalities regarding the act Nations Peace-keeping Force in Cyprus. In the cir­ of free choice, including the fixing of the date of the cumstances, I cannot but be concerned about the un­ consultations, which will be held some time in 1969. On favourable prospects in the near future of being able 23 August, he travelled to West Irian and has now to honour the Organization's commitmG1ts to reimburse completed a tour of the territory to acquaint himself the Member States for the extra and extraordinary with conditions there. According to the provisions of costs they incurred in providing men and mttteriel for 1 "---om: 2 Introduction the various peace-keeping operations of the United mittee the draft treaty was also subjected to a most Nations. The cumulative shortfall in the payment of thorough and detailed consideration at the resumed assessments in respect of the regular budget is likewise twenty-second session of the General Assembly this a matter of continuing serious concern. year. As a result of that consideration) a number of 10. I trust the General Assembly will give renewed important improvements were introduced into the text attention to the problem of finding prompt and effective and the revised draft treaty was commended by an means for restoring the financial integrity and solvency overwhelming vote on 12 June 1968. The Treaty Was of the Organization. opened for signature on 1 July 1968 and more than 11. The question of peace-keeping operations con­ seventy States have already signed it. The General tinues to pose serious and difficult problems. It is Assembly) in resolution 2373 (XXII)) called for the increasingly obvious that the system of voluntary con­ widest possible adherence to the Treaty; I am hopeful tributions) on which the financing of the peace-keeping that the necessary ratifications will shortly be forth­ operations in Cyprus is based) is unsatisfactory from coming so that the Treaty may enter into forre at the several points of view. As I have noted above) no earliest possible date. new voluntary contributions have been made since my 15. The Treaty, which' has been acclaimed as "the last report) and there has been no progress) either most important international agreement in the field of towards a solution of the problem of indebtedness for disarmament since the nuclear age began)) and as "a past operations or towards agreement on means of major success for the cause of peace)) I is important on financing present and possible future activities in this several accounts. First, the purpose of the Treaty is to field. prevent the further spread of nuclear weapons among 12. However, there have been some welcome indica­ countries which do not possess them and establishes tions of possible movement in regard to other aspects a safeguards system for the purpose of verifying the of the question. The consensus reached on 28 May by fulfilment of the obligations assumed under the Treaty, the working group of the Special Committee on Peace­ If this international agreement is duly implemented, keeping Operations, under which it will study, as a it will help to limit and contain the threat of nuclear first model in its programme of work) the military war. observer operations established or authorized by the 16. Secondly, the Treaty not only reaffirms the in­ Security Council) represents a hopeful sign of willing­ alienable right of non-nuclear-weapon States to develop ness on all sides to consider new departures as a means research and the production and use of nuclear energy of moving towards a solution. It is noteworthy that for peaceful purposes without discrimination; it also the decision was taken by a working group comprising, provides that all parties to the Treaty are to facilitate, among others, repre~entatives of four permanent mem­ and have the right to participate in, the fullest possible bers of the Security Council. There appears to be a exchange of equipment, materials. ana scientific and growing recognition that what is involved in the notion technological information for the peaceful uses of of peace-keeping operations is closely related to the nuclear energy. In particular, the Treaty provides that, whole range of functions of the Organization in respect under appropriate international observation and through of the maintenance of international peace and security appropriate international procedures, potential benefits and in regard to methods for the pacific settlement of from any peaceful applications of nuclear explosions disputes. It is to, be hoped that the study launched by will be made available to non-nuclear-weapon States the working group will lead to a realistic examination parties to the Treaty on a non-discriminatory basis, and of this most important of its responsibilities. that the charge to such parties for the explosive devices 13. During the past year, I put forward proposals used will be as low as possible and will exclude any for the first major change in the structure of the top charge for research and development. echelon of the Secretariat in over a decade. These 17. Thirdly, since the Treaty is not an end in itself proposals were unanimously approved by the General but a step towards disarmament, each of the parties to Assembly at its twenty-second session. At that time, the Treaty undertakes to pursue negotiations in good I had announced my intention of appointing a com­ faith on effective measures relating to the cessation of mittee of seven members to review the Organization the nuclear arms race at an early date and to nuclear of the Secretariat. This committee was appointed early disarmament, and also on a treaty on general and com­ this year and has been working continuously since plete disarmament under strict and effective interna­ April. It has undertaken field trips to the major United tional control. Nations offices away from Headquarters, at Geneva, 18. Agreement on these provisions, let us not forget, Rome) Vienna, Beirut, Addis Ababa, Bangkok and was reached only after several years of long and patient Santiago. The Committee is now engaged in finalizing negotiations and even a longer period of preparatory its report, and I look forward to receiving its recom­ work extending as far back as 1958, when the first mendations with the greatest interest. I have no doubt draft rtiiolutionon preventing the spread of nuclear that they will prove of practical value in my continuing weapons was introduced in the General Assembly. efforts to 'improve the structure as well as the func­ Many adjustments and mutual concessions had to be tioning of the Secretariat. made along the way by the parties concerned, both nuclear and non-nuclear. As a result, the final outcome IT. Disarmament necessarily represents a compromise solutioQ. Yet, I am confident that, if this Treaty is accepted by the great 14. The past year has been a year of achievement majority of State~ and is faithfully implemented, it wi!! in the field of disarmament. The successful conclusion play an essential role in the continuing pursuit of of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear security, disarmament and peace. Weapons is the culmination of ten years of efforts in the 19. Indeed, the question of the non-proliferation of United Nations and in the Conference of the Eighteen­ nuclear weapons has provided additional evidence of Nation Committee on Disarmament. After a year of how closely security and the regulation of armaments intensive negotiations in the Eighteen-Nation Com- are linked together. It is enough to mention, in this ~...... "o Introduction 3 connexion, the debate in the Security Council, follow­ measures safeguarding the security of non-nuclear­ ing the conclusion of the Treaty, which led, first, to weapon countries. In its words, "nuclear-weapon-free declarations of intentions by the TJSSR, the United zones additional to those of Antarctica and Latin Kingdom and the United States that they would provide America, covering the mmdmum geographical extent or support immediate assistance, in accordance with the possible and taking into account other measures of arms Charter, to any non-nuclear-weapon State party to the control and disarmament, would equally be of major Treaty that was a victim of an act or an object of a assistance". At the twenty-second session of the Gen­ threat of aggression in which nuclear weapons were eral Assembly, the Treaty for the Prohibition of used, and, secondly, to the adoption of Security Council Nuclear Weapons in Latin America received con­ resolution 255 (1968) on the question of the security siderable attention. The Assembly, in resolution 2286 of non-nuclear-weapon States. (XXII), welcomed the Treaty with special satisfaction, 20. Further evidence of how much the international as an event of historic significance in the efforts to community is concerned with the security of States prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and to which have forsworn nuclear weapons is provided by promote international peace and security. the programme of work of the Conference of Non­ 25. The Assembly also commended the Treaty as Nuclear-"Veapon States, which was convened at Geneva having established the right of Latin American coun­ on 29 August 1968, in accordance with General As­ tries to use nuclear energy for demonstrated pe.lceful sembly resolution 2346 B (XXII). Two main questions purposes in order to accelerate the economic and social before the Conference are programmes for co-operation development of their peoples. It is, indeed, in the in the field of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and interest of all countries to see that the Treaty enjoys measures to assure the security of non-nuclear-weapon universal observance and that its entry into force is States. In dealing with the latter question, the Con­ not in any way delayed. ference may be expected to give consideration to feasible 26. "\iVhatever the path to national and international measures of disarmament which can best contribute security in the future", the report concluded, "it is to security. certainly not to be found in the further spread and 21. Owing to the fact that for a number of years elaboration of nuclear weapons". At this stage, after the efforts towards disarmament have been concentrated the conclusion of the Treaty on non-proliferation, I be­ on the issue of non-proliferation, less attention has lieve that the closest attention must be given to the been given to other important aspects of the disarma­ situation in the entire nuclear sector, including the ment question. Therefore, it will be desirable for the development of new weapons. Conference of the Eighteen-Nation Committee on Dis­ 27. In spite of the limited successes which have armament and the General Assembly to review the been achieved in the field of arms control during the situation and take up, with firmness of purpose, those last ten years, the situation is still fraught with dan­ questions which are more urgent and more amenable gers. The stockpiles of nuclear weapons possessed by to early agreement. the great Powers are still increasing. The development 22. One such question is a comprehensive test ban and deployment of anti-missile systems are spurring treaty. Undoubtedly, a treaty banning nuclear weapon accelerated changes in offensive missile technology. tests in all environments would be a most desirable The possible military uses of the sea-bed and the ocean step following the conclusion of the Treaty of the floor beyond the limits of present national jurisdiction Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Very ap­ are causing growing concern. New biological and propriately, the preamble of the Treaty recalls the chemical weapons are developed and tested in scientific determination expressed by the parties to the 1963 laboratories. Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, 28. As regards nuclear delivery vehicles, the willing­ in outer space and under water to seek to achieve ness on the pa:-t of the United States and the Soviet the discontinuance of all test explosions of nuclear Union to open talks aimed at limiting and reducing weapons' for all time. Moreover, progress in the both offensive nuclear weapons and defensive anti­ identification of seismic events has reduced to manage­ missile systems is an encouraging step forward. It would able proportions the issue of verification of a com­ not be realistic, however, to underestimate the dif­ prehensive ban. It is, indeed, to be hoped that improved ficulties that will have to be overcome before agreement instrumentation, international co-operation in the ex­ is reached on this very complicated question. Having change of seismic data, and the use of statistical this in mind, I strongly feel that the testing and de­ methods can provide a control system sufficiently reli­ velopment of new nuclear weapon systems should be able to deter parties to an agreement from violating halted. while the talks are going on. This. would, in my such an agreement. opinion, facilitate the difficult task that the two major 23. "A comprehensive test ban treaty, prohibiting nuclear Powers will have to face. the underground testing of nuclear devices, would , .. 29. The unanimous adoption of resolution 2340 contribute to the objectives of non-proliferation and (XXII) on the question of the reservation exclusively would clearly help to slow down the nuclear arms for peaceful purposes of the sea-bed and the ocean race." This was one of the conclusions in my report floor, and the subsoil thereof, and the uses of their to the twenty-second session of the General Assembly, resources in the interests of mankind was a positive transmitting the study of the consultant group on the achievement of the General Assembly at its twenty­ effects of the possible use of nuclear weapons and the second session. It is necessary, however, that the initial security and economic implications for .States of the steps envisaged by the resolution be followed soon by acquisition and further development of these weapons. further measures of international co-operation aimed I believe it is fitting to recall this unanimous state­ at preventing actions and uses which might be detri­ ment of a group of highly qualified experts from all mental to the common interests of mankind. parts of the world. 30. While progress is being made in the field of 24. The group further noted that the objectiv~s of nuclear disarmament, there is another aspect of the non-proliferation would be served also by other effective disarmament problem to which I feel too little attention 4 ltltrodt/ctfon has been devoted in recent years. The question of monstrate the gigantic developments in space science chemical and biological weapons has been overshadowed and technology. I welcome these achievements £IS serv~ by the question of nuclear weapons, which have n de­ ing not only national interests but also the commoll structive power severnl orders of magnitude greater interests of all nations. At the same time I venture to than that of chemical and biological weapons. Neverthe­ hope that the progress achieved by the major space less, these too are weapons of mass destruction re­ Powers as well as by many of the other countries in garded with universal horror. In some respects they space science and technology will help in mun's eco~ may be even more dangerous than nuclear weapons nomic and social development. because they do not require the enormous expenditure 34. This will be possible only through the continua­ of financial and scientific resources that are required tion and strengthening of the close co-operation that for nuclear weapons. Almost all countries, including has taken place between the two major space Powers, small ones and developing ones, may have access to as well as between them and other countries, both these weapons, which can be manufactured quite within the United Nations and the specialized agencies cheaply, quickly and secretly in small laboratories or concerned and on a bilateral basis. It is in recognition factories. This fact in itself makes the problem of con­ of this vital need that the United Nations took the trol and inspection much more difficult. Moreover, initiative to convene an international conference under since the adoption, on 17 June 1925, of the Geneva the auspices of the United Nations so as to ensure the Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use in War of wide and full participation of all States in the explora­ Asphyxiating. Poisonous or Other Gases and of Bac­ tion of outer space. teriological Methods of \;Yarfare, there have been many scientific and technical developments and numerous 35. The United Nations Conference on the Explora­ improvements, if that is the right word, in chemical tion and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space set itself the and biological weapons, which have created new situa­ task of examining- the practical benefits to be derived tions and new problems. On the one hand, there has from space research and exploration on the basis of been a great increase in the capability of these weapons technical and scientific achievement and the extent to to inflict unimaginable suffering. disease and death to which non-space countries, especially the developing ever larger numbers of human beings; on the other hand, countries, may enjoy these benefits as well as take part there has been a growing tendency to use some chemical in international co-operation in space activities. It was agents for civilian riot control and a dangerous trend to noted in the many valuable papers presel'ted to the accept their use in some form in conventional warfare. Conference that, while the full mcasure of benefits to be derived from space technology is still unknown, ex­ 31. Two years ago, by resolution 2162 B (XXI), the ploration of outer space has far-reaching implications General Assembly called for the strict observance by all for many areas of life on this planet. Thus the devel­ States of the principles and objectives of the Geneva opments in the area of space communication, for pur­ Protocol of 1925, condemned all actions contrary to poses of dissemination of information and mass educa­ those objectives and invited all States to accede to the tion in particular, could, on the one hand, help the Protocol. Once again I would like to add my voice to promotion of international collaboration and, on the those of others in urging the early and complete im­ other, aid significantly in the advancement of develop­ plementation of this resolution. However, in my opinion, ing countries in the near future. In the area of me­ much more is needed. teorology, programmes such as the ';Yorld Weather 32. During the twenty-three years of the existence Watch, under the direction of the World Meteorological of the United Nations. there has never heen a thorough Organization, will help to provide systematic weather discussion in any United Nations organ of the prob­ observation and eventually aid weather modification lems posed bv chemical and biological weapons, nor and control, with resulting benefits to all countries. has there beeil a detailed study of them. Recently the The developments in space communications and me­ matter has been receiving more attention and it is felt teorology, as well as earth resource survey satellites, that the time has come to deal with it more fully. I were envisaged to help to a very great extent in solving therefore welcome the recommendation of the Con­ the problems of economic and social development. ference of the Eighteen-Nation Committee on Dis­ 36. Emphasis was placed on the need to co-ordinate armament to the General Assembly that the Secretary­ and aid the development of existing bilateral and multi­ General appoint a group of experts to study the effects lateral programmes for education and training in space of the possible use of chemical and bacteriological science, particularly those of the developing countries, means of warfare. I believe that such a studv. which in a sustained and effective manner. Similarly, there would explore and weig-h the dangers of cheniical and was a vital need to encourage and strengthen interna­ biological weapons, would prove to be a most useful tional co-operative efforts in space activity if the num­ undertaking- at the present time. It could attract at­ ber of States taking part in space activity was to in­ tention to an area of multiplying dangers ,md of crease. In this regard, international organizations were diminishing public appreciation of them. It could also r~cognized as having a special responsibility. serve to clarify the issues in an area which has become increasingly complex. Certainly a wider and deeper un­ 37. The General Assembly will have beforc it at derstanding of the clangers posecl by these weapons the present session a detailed report of the Conference. could be an important element in knowing how best I should like to reiterate the hope that this will be to deal with them. only a first step in publicizing the practical benefits of space exploration and that it will ultimately result Ill. Outer space in joint practical ventures and bring the benefits of space exploration to all nations. An example of a joint 33. The first decade of outer space exploration has venture that is already pointing the way towards inter­ shown, in a most convincing manner, that remarkable national co-operation for non-space Powers is the progress has been made in the conquest of outer space. United Nations-sponsored Thumba Equatorial Sound­ The outstanding achievements of the two major spac·c ing Rocket Launching Station in India. The dedication Powers, the Soviet Union and the United States, de- of this station, which is now fully operational, took Introduction 5 plnce this year. In this connexion, I note with satisfac­ Security Council has had to meet on several occasions tion that the Assembly at its last session endorsed the as n result of such incidents. I have repeatedl~' urged decision of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses Qf that observers ,be stationed in all cease-fire sectors and Outer Space to appoint a group of scientists to visit have stressed that such arrangements of a practical the sounding rocket station at Mar del Plata, Argentina, nature, which need not prejudice the claims and posi­ when it is operative, in order to advise the United tions of the parties, would be in the interest both of Nations of the eligibility of that station for United the parties and of the United Nations. Nntions sponsorship. 43. It must be borne in mind, in considering the 38. In order to ensure that practical benefits of background for the many and regrettable breaches of space exploration wilt accrue to all countries irrespec­ the cease-fire, that on one side the cease-fire sectors tive of their degree of economic dcvelopment, space in the i\Hddle East are almost entirely areas under mili­ activities must be carried out in an orderly fashion. tary occupation. History shows that such sihtations The United Nations has takcn several important steps tend to give rise to a more than ordinary incidence of in this direction during the last few years. The Treaty acts of violence. on Prin\,..ples Governing the Activities Qf States in thc 44. In the light of the situation in the area of the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, includ­ conflict of J ttne 1967 and especially in the occupied ing the 1v100n and other Celestial Bodies, which was territories, I felt that there was a great need for-and t\llanimously acclaimed by the General Assembly, came had proposed--a second humanitarian mission to the into force on 10 Octobcr 1967, establishing a legal Middle East, in particular for the purpose of meeting regime in this environmcnt which might otherwise have my reporting obligations under Security Council reso­ become an area of conflict and strife. lution 237 (1967) and General Assembly resolution 39. During .ne last year, the United Nations con­ 2252 (ES-V) concerning humanitarian questions. It tinued its work in this direction and further elaborated was with great disappointment, therefore, that I had the provisions of the Treaty in the Agreement on the to report on 31 July 1968 to the Security Council and Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the General Assembly that my efforts in this regard the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space, had thus far been unavailing. which was unanimously commended by the Assembly 45. The situation of the refugees since the June at its last session. It is heartening to note that this war has further deteriorated, and the task of the United Agreement, was opened for signature in April this Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refu­ year in London, Moscow and V"ashington, has already gees in the Near East has become correspondingly been signed by more than fifty countries. more difficult. In particular the shortage of funds, food, 40. I am hopeful that this spirit of co-operation will supplies and equipment to meet the emergency con­ continue to maintain the new environment as an area ditions has on occasion been acute. \iVith this in mind, of. peace through the process of law. In particular, it I addressed two appeals to Governments for special is my hope that the present agreements will shortly be contributions, one on 2 March 1968, for funds and addi­ supplemented by an agreement on liability for damage tional tents, and the other for food aid made jointly caused by objects launched into outer space, which is with the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture at present being discussed in the Organization. In this Organization of the United Nations on 30 April 1968. connexion, I am also gratified to note that the Interna­ The response to both these appeals has been disap­ tional Telecommunication Union wilt convene a con­ pointingly limited. ference in 1970 for the purpose of continuing its work 46. Hopes for progress towards easing' tensions in in the area of frequency control for space communi­ the Middle East and avoiding conflict through solution cations. of the major issues between the Arab States and Israel 41. I hope that the present trend will .continue in have centred on the efforts of my Special Representa­ order to establish a regime for the ,furtherance of peace tive to the Middle East, Ambassador Gunnar Jarring. and co-operation in outer space and to provide useful By their very nature, these efforts must be confidential analogies for other areas which may require new and discreet. It has been Ambassador Jarring's policy arrangements in the near future. to make no public pronouncements or even substantive reports while his efforts continue. It would be equally IV. Peace-keeping inadvisable for me at this time to discuss substantive questions relating to the Jarring mission. It may, how­ 42. The year since the war of early June 1967 has ever, be useful to make some general comments at this been one of high tension and great frustration in the stage on that mission in the context of the Middle East Middle East. The war came quickly to an end, but situation and also in the larger context of the United the cease-fire demanded by the Security Council has Nations involvement in it. often been broken by a succession of incidents of fight­ ing varying in seriousness. This was especially the case 47. Resolution 242 (1967) adopted unanimously by in the Israel-Jordan and the Suez Canal sectors. The the Security Council on 22 November 1967 was in machinery of the United Nations Truce Supervision itself a considerable achievement and provided a basis Organization in Palestine, although truncated and for a constructive and peaceful approach both by the dislocated by the events of June 1967, has been an im­ parties and by the international community to the bitter portant factor in preventing an escalation of the fight­ problems of the lVIiddle East. The resolution provided ing, espedally by limiting the scope of incidents and for a special representative "to establish and maintain by securing on-the-spot cease-fires through the cease­ contacts with the States concerned in order to promote fire arrangements in the Syrian and the Suez Canal agreement and assist efforts to achieve a peaceful and sectors made after the June war. In the Israel-Jordan accepted settlement". This was a heavy responsibility cease-fire sector, where because of the lack of agree­ for one man to undertake, but in a practical sense it ment by the parties it has not been possible to station was the wisest of the obviously limited alternatives. United Nations observers, incidents of fighting have 48. The tireless, persistent and understanding efforts tended to be more frequent and serious. Indeed, the of Ambassador Jarring over the past nine months have "'""'!'l 6 ltltrod.cctiota more than justified the confidence plnced in him by me ceed. It will be recalled that the successful talks between nnd by the Security Council. No onc hns ever doubted India and Pakistan at Tashkent in January 1966 were the e.~treme difficulty nnd complexity of the problems arrnnged through the good offices of the Soviet Union, with which he has had to grnpple, nnd certainly no whose representatives assisted the two parties in the reasonable person could have expected quick or mirncu­ talks. In this regard, it may also be recalled that the lous solutions. I do not find it surprising, although it negotiations at Rhodes in 1949, which led to the gen­ is disappointing, that despite Ambassador Jarring's un­ ernl armistice ngreementsbetween the iour Arab States ceasing efforts the promise of the 22 November reso­ and Israel, were arranged by the United Nations. At lution has not yet been fulfilled in any significant degree. Rhodes negotiations as such were basically indirect, The basic situation in the Middle East in relation even the respective parties being brought together in meet­ to the beginnings of a settlement remains much the ings under the chairmanship of the Acting Mediator same as it was eight months ago, Until now, the one to formalize agreements reached by indirect talks clear point of agreement among all concerned has been through him. that Ambassador Jarring should continue his efforts. 55. It is often said, in the Security Council and 49. This, certainly, is a personal tribute to Ambas­ elsewhere, by parties to conflicts that, while the United sador Jarring, and it may be hoped that it is also an Nations has achieved a measure of success in keeping expression of a genuine desire of the parties to find the peace in areas of conflict, it has failed or is failing a peaceful solution. Ther~ is implicit in the l\'!iddle East in its duty to resolve the political problems at the root situation, of course, a very great urgency about achiev­ of these conflicts. Those who hold such views tend to ing a peaceful settlement. No onc is more sensitive to overlook the simple fact that the primary responsibility this than Ambassador Jarring himself. In the interest for peaceful settlement of conflicts must illevitablyrest of peace, the United Nations cannot tolernte an indefi­ with the parties themselves and that without their co­ nite lack of progress towards a peaceful settlement in operation and effort no peace mission of the United the Middle East. Nations, however skilfully conducted or strongly sup­ 50. Ambassador Jarring's efforts to promote agree­ ported, can hope to·succeed. On the other hand, given ment among the parties to the Middle East clispute have that co-operation, the United Nations can be of inestim­ been impeded by the disagreement among them thus able assistance. This is nowhere truer than in the far on the procedure to be employed in taking up the :Middle East. substantive questions. One party has insisted upon * "direct negotiations" by which is meant, apparently, a ** face-to-face confrontation of the two sides i the other 56. After four years of tension and conflict, during side has rejected, initially at any rate, the direct pro­ which the situation in Cyprus was kept under control cedure, but has been willing to carry on substantive in no small measure by the efforts of the United talks concerning the implementation of the resolution Nations Peace-keeping Force, a number of develop­ indirectly, with Ambassador Jarring as the interme­ ments of unusual significance and promise have oc­ diary. All of his efforts will be unavailing unless he curred on the island during the past several months. is able to carry on some form of dialogue with the two The armed clashes at Ayios Theodhoros and Kophinou sides involving matters of substance. Such a dialogue in November 1967 had brought the intercommunal con­ cannot be fruitful if it is substantive on one side but frontation to an explosive state and had for a time only procedural on the other. even threatened to disrupt international peace in the 51. The key to a peaceful settlemen' of issues eastern Mediterranean. \iViser counsels prevailed, how­ dividing States and peoples which lead to armed con­ ever, and as a result of intensive diplomatic efforts, flict, or threaten to do so, is negotiation. It is often including three appeals that I addressed to the parties, difficult, owing to political and other circumstances, the danger of war receded and an accommodation was to bring the parties involved in a conflict to the nego­ arrived at whereby Greek and Turkish armed personnel tiating table, and there is no certainty that, once they in excess of the respective national contingents would are there, agreement can·be reached within any rea­ be withdrawn from Cyprus. sonable period of time. 57. There has ensued, since the beginning of 1968, 52. Negotiations may be undertaken in different a steady relaxation of tension marked by increasing ways. There is no fixed formula controlling them. A contacts between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, a very workable procedure in one set of circumstances may be significant reduction in shooting and other intercom­ quite impractical and unsuitable in another. The right munal incidents, and a large-scale effort by the Govern­ road, obviously, is that which will lead to fruitful ment to return the country to normality by eliminating negotiations, whether direct or indirect.. It would seem economic restrictions and granting full freedom of to me that as a general rule the emphaSIS should be on movement to the Turkish Cypriots. the results rather than on the procedure. 58. In this improved atmosphere, my Special Repre­ sentative has been able to arrange for direct intercom­ 53. As this text is being written, three different ml1nal talks, the first serious contacts of this kind in sets of peace negotiations are under way, each differing four and a half years. These talks, which began in from the others in the procedure being followed. These early June of this year, have so far been encouraging. are the preliminary talks in Paris on Vie~~N am, t.he Of course, many difficulties remain to be overcome and talks between leaders of the Greek and Turkish Cypnot the participants in the talks and other leaders in both communities in Cyprus and the talks on t!1e Middle communities will have to continue to display statesman­ East being undertaken by Ambassador Jarnng. ship, forbearance and mutual understanding of the 54. These talks differ from each other in the extent highest order if lasting and sound results are to be of the initiatives taken by the parties involved, or by achieved. In full realization of the difficulties, however, a third party, in bringing them about, in, their d~rect it is possible to say that in Cyprus there would now or indirect nature, and in the extent of assls.tal?ce gIven seem to be some real promise of progress towards a to the parties by a third party as the negotiations pro- settlement. !tl'roducl;on 7 59. Thc Unitcd Nations Peace-keeping Force will. associate not only Governments, but also public opinion of course, do evcrything possiblc within its tcrms of with the preparation and, later on, with the implemen­ referencc to nssist the parties in promoting a return tation of a strategy for thc next decnde. to full normality. and the good offices of the Secretary­ 64. Many United Nntions bodies will, in the near General, either directly or through my Special Repre­ future, have the second Development Decade on their sentative, continuc to be avai!ab:e to the parties in the agenda. In fnct, current efforts may well be a landmark effort to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Cyprus in intcra~ency co-operation, with n number of organiza­ problem. tions umting their efforts as they have never done 60. I feel obliged, ne'.'ertheless, to warn the parties before to harmonize their views in a technically complex involved in the Cyprus dispute of the need to mOVe manner. with speed towards a solution of the problem, for the 65. At this stage, I should like to stress the im­ financial situation in connexion with the Force has con­ portance of the role to be played by the regional tinued to deteriorate and the deficit for this operation economic commissions in the implementation ofa global now stands at a figure of approximately $13.586,000. strategy as embodied in the objectives of the second In my periodic reports to the Security Council on the Development Decade. operation in Cyprus, I have repeatedly underscored the unsatisfactory method decided upon by the Security 66. In the past year, the regional economic com­ Council for the financing of the Force, but no remedial missions have again shown their effectiveness as in­ action has yet been taken. I feel bound, therefore. again dispensable arms of the United Nations in its economic to give warning, and particularly to the parties to the and social development efforts, particularly with respect Cyprus dispute, that the United Nations Peace-keeping to the developing countries. I believe that we are now Force cannot. in these circumstances. be maintained on the verge of a new stage of administrative decentrali­ much longer on the island, and that the time is fast zation. The commissions, which are in close touch with approaching when drastic action-even including the local conditions and are aware of current needs. will withdrawal of the Force-may have to be taken. serve as centres of initiative and will facilitate the implementation of United Nations policies. It may well prove easier, at the regional 1t:vel, to achieve a v. Economic and social development proper combination of policy-making and operational 61. The advancement of the preliminary work for activities. The three commissions covering the develop­ the second development decade has offered an oppor­ ing countries-the Economic Commission for Africa. the tunity for a useful soul-searching exercise with regard Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East and to the achievements as well as the disappointments of the Economic Commission for Latin America-paid the first United Nations Development Decade now special attention to promoting programmes which would nearing its close. Certainly most of the key problems accelerate the economic and social progress of the facing the world community are not substantially dif­ poorer and least developed countries. The question of ferent from those which were described in the early the most appropriate forms of external assistance has sixties: the food-population equation, education, transfer to be studied in depth. The United Nations Develop­ of science and technology, mobilization of financial ment Programme could contribute in the search for resources, foreign exchange and general strategy of ways of giving some priority to the needs of the least development. However, short-comings and imbalances developed countries. have been more clearly identified and in many of these 67. That might form part of the capacity study areas it is obvious that changes are beginning to take which is being undertaken by the Programme and place; in some cases, there r:ls even been a break­ which I have welcomed as an effort to reassess the through. performance of the United Nations system in a large 62. A large proportion of the world's population is sector of its technical co-operation and pre-investment still subjected to an inadequate and unacceptable activities. There might also be a case for using, to this standard of living. and the present rate of growth of end and as a matter of priority, the resources of the the gross domestic product of too many developing Capital Development Fund. countries does not offer particular grounds for optimism. 68. The Capital Development Fund's first year has Such a situation amply justifies the concerted efforts been disappointing. The level of resources, as provided which are now being planned within the framework by the first Pledging Conference, did not permit the of the second United Nations Development Decade. Administrator of the United Nations Development 63. The Economic and Social Council, at its recent Programme to beg'in the operations of the Fund. A session in Geneva, took the necessary steps to expedite second Pledging Conference is to be convened on 18 the preliminary work and to intensify national and October 1968 and the Economic and Social Council, international efforts to formulate a dynamic interna­ at its recent session in Geneva, expressed the hope tional policy for the seventies. In the course of the -which I share-that Governments of Member States discussions, a number of valuable suggestions were made will take the necessary steps to participate in the with a view to improving the over-simplified framework Conference. established in the early sixties, drawing up a more diversified set of assumptions, and developing a * mechanism which would measure progress and point ** out short-comings during the implementation phase. 69. Record wheat crops and unparalleled yields of Steps must also be taken to keep the public abreast rice and maiz.e during the last year prompted predic­ of the aims and objectives and of the problems encoun­ tions that the race between food and population could tered during this period. At a time when interest in be won. Some experts now believe that the under­ United Nations activities and in the concept of collective developed world is on the verge of an agricultural responsibility for economic development has appeared revolution that may prove decisive for mankind and to be vacillating, it is all the more important to they cite developments in farming practices and in '"~ 8 bltroduction human attitudes as harbingers of that revolution. Stilt, that while some Governments are aware of and are the population problem remains a major source of beginning to tackle the protein problem in their coun­ anxiety for it has to be viewed 'in a much wider context tries, other Governments arc unable to take the than the food population equation. Associated with required action and. deal with all the complexities that problem are those of education, employment and involved. Also, it is becoming clear that more rnpid the provision of numerous essential services. The ques­ progress in dealing with the protein problem at the tion of population growth has only recently emerged national and international levels can only be achieved as critical and urgent and, in spite of the many problems when that problem becomes the conthming concern of which stilt remain, a new thinking has developed in the policy and executive decision-making bodies at the this respect in many parts of the world. The unanimous highest level and when scientific and technical bodies adoption by the General Assembly on 17 December are not expected to carry responsibility in isolation, 1966 of resolution 2211 (XXI) on population growth away from the mainstream of over-all development and and economic development marked a turning-point in modernization activities. With a considerable body of that there was recognition of the gravity of population scientific and technical information on protein already problems and the necessity for accelerated action to available, there is a critical need for strong political implement the expanded programme recommended by support to ensure an integration of managerial, eco­ the Population Commission. The Governments of some nomic, social and scientific .considerations. It may now twenty developing countries have already decided to be timely to search for a new approach to the protein adopt policies and measures to moderate population problem, which would involve a catalytic role for the growth, and a number of other developing countries United Nations, a means for stimulating more vigorous are contemplating the adoption of similar policies. action by Governments, and an intensification of the Most national family planning programmes are integral efforts of the various organizations in the United parts of the national plan for economic and social Nations family. I<

70. The process of transformation of the traditional >I< * attitude towards the family will, however, be slow and the obstacles will not be overcome in a short time. We 72. I firmly believe that the strengthening of our have only established the first milestone on a long economic programme will not be achieved to the road and it is with this in mind that we should con­ desired extent if we do not take steps to improve tinue to build up the United Nations population our programme and budgeting procedures. It is with programme at the instigation of Member States. I have this in mind that I have, in response to Economic been gratified by the contributions made so far to and Social Council resolutions and to the recommenda­ the Trust Fund for Population Activities, which I tions of the Ad Hoc Committee of Experts to Examine decided to set up in July 1967. I hope that more the Finances of the United Nations and the Specialized resources will be made available in order to promote Agencies, taken a number of steps in the last three a further strengthening of United Nations assistance years with a view to facilitating the development of an in this field, especially at the regional and local levels, integrated system of long-term planning, programme which an increasing number of Governments would formulation and budget presentation. Since 1966, I welcome. have submitted annually to the Committee for Pro­ gramme and Co-ordination a report on the work pro­ 71. Even if the most optimistic predictions about gramme and budgetary requirements of the United a decline in the rate of population increase should be Nations in the economic, social and human rights realized and even if the most hopeful predictions of fields. a significant increase in food production should come true, millions of people would continue to suffer from 73. This report consists of a general review of the malnutrition. This is so partly because of the continued work programme in these fields covering expenditures inadequacy of the supply of protein. Fortunately, more for the preceding year, authorized expenditures for the and more attention is being paid to the protein current year and my proposals for the forthcoming problem in the developing countries, where it is be­ year. In separate addenda to it, detailed information coming increasingly apparent that inadequate protein is provided on the work programme in the different consumption involves the risk of impeding development. main fields of activity, including lists of projects and the In many countries, population growth will continue staff resources required for their execution expressed to be rapid, and rapid population growth necessarily in man-months, descriptions of major projects and brings about increases in the younger age groups. It summaries of the activities of the major organizational is there that the protein problem is gravest: protein units engaged in work in the economic and social deficiency in pregnant women, infants and pre-school fields. These efforts to provide a closer link between children causes physical stunting and, in all likelihood, the processes of programme formulation and budget mental retarda~ion that cannot be reversed. The con­ preparation may be expected to contribute further in certed attack on the protein problem involves, on the overcoming the existing dichotomy. I look towards one hand, soundly designed policies and programmes in closer co-ordination between the Committee for Pro­ research and development, in agricultural production gramme and Co-ordination and the Advisory Commit­ and in industrial processing and manufacture. On the tee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions, which other hand, it requires effective distribution by means should be possible to achieve through appropriate ad­ of which changes in food habits and food consumption justments in the calendar of meetings, patterns can be achieved, as well as improved education 74. Significant modifications in the form of the in nutrition for medical and other technical personnel United Nations budget were introduced in 1967 and and also for the public at large. These findings were summarized in my foreword to the budget estimates submitted to the General Assembly last year and for 1968. Further refinements are being introduced the Assembly requested that information be gathered in the 1969 budget estimates which will link the in­ from Governments. The documentation received shows formation in the budget document directly to the report bltrodllction 9 on the work programme provided to the Committee ings of Executive Secretaries seems fully justified. for Programme and Ccrordination and to the Council. These meetings have developed into a vital machinery, An internal review group composed of senior officials not only for the co-ordination of United Nations of the Office of the Controller and of the Department economic and social activities in the framework of a of Economic and Social Affairs was established early more balanced functional decentralization between the in 1968. The group has dealt with the programme as a Department of Economic and Social Affairs and the whole, including activities financed from extra­ regional economic commissions, but also for achiev­ budgetary resources, and hns taken the first steps to ing greater effectiveness in the co-operation among apply techniques of programme and performance them and other United Nations bodies, particularly the budgeting in assessing the net minimum increase in United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, resources which would be required to meet the demands the United Nations, the International Labour Organisa­ of the Secretariat during' the coming year as they tion and the United Nations Development Programme emerge from the decisions of the progrnmme-formttlat­ with the particiJ)ation, as appropriate, of such other ing bodies. It is hoped that the work of this /{roup, agencies as the Food and Agriculture Organization of which has been of great help to me, will also prove the United Nations, the International L'lbour Or~anisa­ of assistance both to the Committee for Programme tion and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. and Co-ordination and to the Advisory Committee Such an instrument for strengthening co-ordination and on Administrative and Budgetary Questions. co-operation is essential if concerted programmes and 75. Further integration of the planning, program­ action are to take adequately into account the neces­ ming and budgetary processes called for in Economic sary role of the regional bodies in many fields of and Social Council resolution 1275 (XLIII) and Gen­ economic and social activities. eral Assembly resolution 2370 (XXII) will require 78. As regards co-ordination in the administrative further work both in the Secretariat and in the Com­ and budgetary fields, efforts in the past year have been mittee for Programme and Co-ordination towards an directed largely to the implementation of the recom­ integrated system which would increase the effective­ mendations of the Ad Hoc Committee of Experts to ness of the Organization's contribution to the. second Examine the Finances of the United Nations and the Development Decade by offering a more rational ap­ Specialized Agencies. Much has already been done by proach to the determination of objectives and by pro­ agencies individually and collectively through inter­ viding an opportunity for choosing alternative courses agency consultation. The Joint Inspection Unit has been of action and selecting specific programmes capable of set up, and its members have established relations fulfilling these objectives. with the Administrative Committee on Co-ordination 76. The past year has witnessed an increase, in and are in close contact with the administration of both range and depth, in co-operation among the or­ each agency. I am confident that, while acting in com­ ganizations making up the United Nations system. The plete independence, they will be able to make a signifi­ Administrative Committee on Co-ordination has had an cant contribution to the solution of many problems, not important role in much of this activity, by providing the only those of the United Nations itself and of individual framework for the necessary consultations and action, agencies but also those of an interagency character. by facilitating contacts between the organizations con­ A Computer Users' Committee has been set up to cerned and by stimulating their thinking. In the fields ensure the optimum use among United Nations or­ of population and agricultural education, the bases for ganizations of computer facilities at Geneva and to new co-operative relationships have been laid; the develop interorganizational co-ordination and co-opera­ same is true of two other rapidly expanding fields of tion in matters of general concern regarding computers. international action-development and utilization of the 79. This year's joint meetings of the Administrative resources of the sea and industrial development-where Committee on Co-ordination, the Enlarged Committee some uncertainty as to competence and even some inter­ for Programme and Co-ordination and the officers agency friction had been apparent a year ago. Further of the Economic and Social Council, held at Bucharest steps have been taken towards establishing adequate early in July on the invitation of the Government of machinery and techniques for evaluating field opera­ Romania, concentrated on some of the most important tions. At the request of the Enlarged Committee for issues coming before the Council's summer session, Programme and Co-ordination, all extensive documenta­ including the preparations for the next Development tion, including .a draft review of the entire range of Decade, the development and utilization of human re­ economic and social activities of the United Nations sources, and the implementation of the requests ad­ family, a draft handbook of criteria and procedures for dressed to specialized agencies and other international obtaining United Nations assistance for economic and institutions related to the United Nations under Gen­ social development, and annotations to a lengthy series eral Assembly resolution 2311 (XXII) on decoloniza­ of issues to which the Enlarged Committee intends to tion questions. These meetings again contributed sig­ devote special attention, has been prepared by the nificantly, I believe, to fuller understanding and United Nations Secretariat in consultation with the co-operation among, on the one hand, the executive staffs of the agencies and programmes concerned. I heads of United Nations organizations and programmes trust that this material will help advance the general and, on the other, senior governmental representatives review which the Committee is undertaking in pur­ associated with the work of the Council. suance of General Assembly resolution 2188 (XXI). 80. Such encouraging results have been widely 77. The growing importance of the periodic meet­ recognized. At the same time, I detect a sense of con­ ings of the Executive Secretaries of the regional econo­ cern in many quarters at the growth in the number mic commissions under the chairmanship of the Under­ of bodies and programmes which have been established Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs primarily for co-ordination purposes or in which co-· deserves special mention. The recommendation of the ordination activities play an important and increasing General Assembly, in resolution 1823 (XVII), that the role, in the time and the documentation required to Secretary-General should continue to convene the meet- service them, and in the complexities and even duplica- ...~.--~ 10 bltrodt.ctiota tion which they involve. It is true that the increase in development is a comple.~ and manifold process and that the activities of the United Nations family calls, as a action on one of its fronts depends upon parallel action corollary, for ever closer co-ordination and more ex­ on the others. This, I believe, is the essence of global tensive co-ordination arrangements if the efforts of the strategy, and, at this new threshold of human history, it different organizations are to be directed towards com­ is of singular importance that Governments should mon goals and available resources used to the best strive to achieve the most effective use of resources effect. Moreover, these co-ordination activities represent, towards that end. in large part, the kind lof critical self-examination in 86. In this context, it is distressing to note the which any healthy institution must be constantly en­ competing claims of military expenses of staggering gaged. proportions on the resources available in developed 81. Failure to co-operate and a lack of co-ordination countries, which could be the source of much of .the among the United Nations organizations at this stag-e financial assistance required, as well as in those coun­ would be wasteful and could evcn be disastrous. At tries that are themselves in urgent need of assistance. the same time, to devote too much time and effort to All these countries 'seem to have lost sight of the fact studying, discussing and writing about actual or potcn­ that they would make a truly constructive contribution tial co-ordination issues could be counter-productive to their own security and to the reduction of the basic and I cannot conceal my fear that some of the current causes of unrest and insecurity by working towards the activities involve such dangers. elimination of poverty and want in the world. Members 82. With this in mind, I am inviting the Adminis­ of tIle United Nations Conference on Trade and Devel­ tmtive Committee on Co-ordination carefully to rcview opment may recall that at the first session of the Con­ and scrutinize the working of our interagency arrange­ ference they agreed that due attention should be paid ments at the Secretariat level, with a view to stream­ to the trade aspects of programmes for disarmament. I lining the machinery and eliminating all unnecessary am convinced that a well conceived, adequately pre­ meetings and documentation. It would, I believe, be pared and effectively implemented strategy for develop­ most helpful and encouraging to the entire United ment would hasten the day when countries might Nations family if the General Assembly and other reduce their armaments and that the net savings accru­ United Nations intergovernmental organs with respon­ ing therefrom would represent many times the cost of sibilities for co-ordination were to find it possible to existing programmes of development. undertake a corresponding scrutiny of arrangements 87. The experience of the last few years and of its for co-ordination at their level. second session has led the Conference to engage in a process of critical self-examination. Individual Govern­ * ments as well as the secretariat have recently devoted ** much thought to institutional reform. It is worth re­ 83. An essential part of the role of the United calling in this connexion that the Conference was en­ Nations in world affairs is to sustain all attempts to visaged from its inception not only as a forum within close the widening gap between rich and poor, par­ which Governments would frame trade and develop­ ticularly by means of action in the field of trade and ment principles and policies, but also as a mechanism development. The world community, however, still ap­ intended to give practical effect to such policies. Since pears unwilling to take the resolute steps requircd to the creation of the Conference, however, the lag be­ translate into practical measures the lofty aims set forth tween general aims and objectives voiced in debate and by the first Unitcd Nations Confercnce on Trade and their translation into practical forms of action has been Development in 1964. This was perhaps the most strik­ a most disheartening feature of the organization and ing feature of the 'second session of the Conference at one that has given rise to increasing bitterness and New Delhi earlier this year, when a major opportunity frustration. This is a situation that requires urgent for advancing these aims was lost. attention as any delay, at this stage, in the implementa­ tion of dynamic economic and social policies might cause 84. The concerted effort necessary for any effective further deterioration in the plight of many millions. attack on the problems of under-development did not The Conference, which embodies many of their hopes prove possible at New Delhi. Hence, the achievements and rightful aspirations, must cease to be used and­ of the second session of the Conference were very what is equally important-cease to be considered as limited. Its proceedings and decisions 'Suggest that the merely or predominantly a deliberative body; it must political will to work towards concerted action, which harness trade in the cause of development and forge constitutes the mainspring of international economic co­ agreements to this effect. operation, was lacking. The purposeful, constructive 88. The Trade and Development Board will no and sustained process of negotiation-in the broad sense doubt give most serious consideration to the evident of this term-did 'not, therefore, take place, and the need to strengthen the operational role of the Confer­ urge for action, 'So apparent during the preparations for ence and prevent unnecessary overlapping and duplica­ the Conference, was lost in the complexities of a heavy, ti'on of the efforts of other organizations. One source of inadequate institutional machinery. additional .strength would be to recognize the impor­ 85. The failure to agree on clearly defined conver­ tance for developing countries of technical co-operation gent measures for implementation by developed and de­ in the trade field by including the Conference in the veloping countries, the pressing need for which I re­ group of agencies that participate in the United Na­ ferred to in the introduction to my report of last year, tions Development Programme. Another aspect that is particularly regrettable in that the Conference was deserves careful consideration concerns the ability of thus unable to n;ake any significant contribution to­ the Conference to .exercise fully the functions that de­ wards the formulation of a global strategy for develop­ volve upon it as the central organ of the United Nations ment. The effectiveness and influence of the United system in the field of trade and development and to act Nations may be significantly lessened if the second promptly, vigorously and wisely on specific matters Development Decade is not 'based on the concept that affecting the interests of its membership. In this regard, ~ ltl/rodt/ction 11 a thorough streamlining of procedures and methods of of specialized agencies have already led to a wide work may be called for, bearing in mind the need to ~~asure of co-operation, including the development of strike a 'balance between careful examination and expe­ Jomt programmes. ditious action. 95. Parallel efforts are in progress with respect to 89. Thc dispersal of resources and efforts that in­ the regional economic commissions, particularly as re­ evitably cnsues from thc fact that the United Nations gards future programmes. Some of the industrial field Conference on Trade and Development and the General advisers, who will be located at the seats of the re­ Agreement on Tariffs and Trade are carrying out par­ gional economic commissions, will serve as an additional allel programmes of work in a number of fields has link in this common effort. The organization's efforts been mitigated to a certain extent in the last year by the are directed towards a harmonization of national and creation, by the two bodies, of the International Trade regional approaches to industrialization, which it con­ Centre. But the Centre must not stand as an isolated siders as two complementary aspects. example; given the necessary instructions, the Confer­ 96. One important area of activity of the United ence and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade Nations Industrial Development Organization in the can and should pursue further opportunities for joint next few years will be the fornmlation of a world in­ or concerted action, especially in relation to the assist­ dustrial development strategy for the 1970s. FOrelilost ance they both provide to developing countries. in this respect will be co-operation with the regional 90. The founding of the United Nations Conference economic commissions and the specialized agencies in on Trade and Development was motivated by concepts the establishment of a co-ordinated approach to the far more lasting than the present circumstances and planning of the second Development Decade. This ap­ institutional deficiencies. But no matter how right its plies particularly in the case of the Food and Agricul­ principles and how practical its machinery, its ultimate ture Organization of the United Nations. In its basic success will depend upon the extent of the support approach, the United Nations Industrial Development given to these principles and the use made of this Organization has always remained conscious of the machinery by its member Governments. fallacy of considering agricultural and industrial de­ velopment as alternative paths of development that put separate and competing claims on the resources of the * developing countries. It has considered the two as * * complementary and mutually supporting elements of 91. The mobilization of national efforts and re­ the development process. sources in the promotion of industrial development reflects the recognition by the developing countries of 97. The International Symposium on Industrial De­ the strategic importance of industrialization in the de­ velopment and the Industrial Promotion Service, held velopment process and their awareness of the urgency concurrently in Athens from 29 November to 19 De­ of this problem. The prospects opened up by the applica­ cember, provided an excellent opportunity for establish­ tion of science and technology encourage the aspirations ing a much needed and fruitful dialogue between the of those nations which hope to reduce by means of in­ Governments of developed and developing countries, dustrialization the disparity between the levels of living and also between the representatives of industry and of the economically advanced nations and their own. related sectors. These contacts covered a wide range of The awareness of the need to promote industrialization topics related to the various aspects of the process of is associated to an increasing extent with an awareness industrialization in the developing countries. The ex­ of the magnitude of the .problems to be solved. changes of views and informal contacts made between the interested parties contributed greatly towards the 92. The establishment by the General Assembly of establishment of closer co-operation and better mutual the United Nations Industrial Development Organiza­ understanding. tion as an autonomous body waS in response to. the need for an appropriate instrument intended to intensify in­ 98. The last year also saw the establishment of the ternational efforts for industrial development, parti­ headquarters of the United Nations Industrial De­ cularly in under-developed countries. This organization's velopment Organization in Vienna. The organization efforts have been directed towards advising the develop­ was fortunate in having the fullest co-operation of the ing countries on policies and measures to establish and !ederal a!1d city.authorities. Vienna is rapidly acquir­ expand their industrial capacity and providing them mg an mternatlonal status as the headquarters of assistance in the various fields relating to industrializa­ major international agencies and the site of important tion. The United Nations Industrial Development Or­ United Nations meetings and conferences. ganization can provide the stimulus, encourage the 99. In line with the recommendations of the In­ initiative and assist in various ways the industrial de­ ternational .Symposium and of the Industrial Develop­ velopment of the developing countries; but the primary ment Board, the secretariat of the United Nations In­ task will always remain with the Governments con­ dustrial Development Organization has continued to cerned, if their efforts are to yield results commensurate seek close relations not only with Governments and with the dimension and urgency of the industrial de­ officials of the industrialized countries, but also with velopment problem. industrial, business and financial communities. The 93. It was to be expected that the creation of the knowledge and experience gained from these contacts United Nations Industrial Development Organization will serve as a valuable tool in meeting the problems would call for a series of adjustments in the working arising in the process of industrialization. Through such programmes and relations with other organizations in efforts, it is hope that the United Nations Industrial fields closely related to industry. Development Organization will become an effective in­ strument for the exchange of industrial techonology to 94. The co-ordination of efforts by all United help the developing countries. Nations bodies remains an essential requirement that was stressed by the Industrial Development Board at its * second session. Bilateral discussions with a number * * 12 100. The current Development Decade has regis­ highest return, for development means change-in tered significant steps towards the creation of an in­ knowledge, values, methods, organization and in in­ tegrated United Nations family approach to technical vestment-and people are the agents of change. and pre-investment assistance. The focus of this is the 108. Improvements worked out between Govern­ United Nations Development Programme, which is a ments and the Programme in the goals, design and trust partnership of virtually the entire United Nations of Programme-supported projects have necessarily system of organizations. The Programme is dedicated called for increased inter-ministerial co-operation as to one objective-increasing the development power of well as for intensified collaboration among agencies of low-income countries. the United Nations family. Frequently, they have also 101. Governments of rich and poor countries alike inevitably involved closer integration with other ex­ have steadily increased the Programme's resources. As ternal assistance in attaining national development ob­ a consequence, its expenditures for projects have risen jectives. Here, as in harmonizing the assistance of the from $26 million in 1959 to an estim:ilted $176 million United Nations family of organizations, the Resident in the current year. Representatives have performed increasingly useful 102. :Meanwhile, the recipient Governments them­ roles. They are, indeed, serving as consulting architects selves have contributed substantially towards the co~t of development. of projects assisted by the Programme. In 1959, tlus 109. Thus, the Programme is not only working well amounted to about $13 million, whereas in 1968 it is in the new environment of awakening perceptions and expected to come close to $200 million. Yet the impact energies in the developing countries, but it is also an has been even greater. increasingly effective instrument of our nascent new 103. The quantitative change has presented difficul­ world society. By their participation in the Programme, ties. It has also permitted qualitative improvements. The most of the countries that exist today are demonstrating approach remains one of attacking specific proble1?s, their recognition of the technical and economic inter­ national or regional. But the problems currently bemg dependence of all nations. faced are more fundamental. In addition, they can now be encountered to a more adequate degree, both in­ 110. It is in this context of the Programme's proven dividually and as part of a complex pattern. merit and vast potential that I renew my plea to parti­ cipating Governments to increase steadily their con­ 104. With the Programme's assistance going beyond tributions to the Programme. All evidence confirms that a marginal span in more and more situations and in a the target of $350 million in contributions for 1970, growing number of countries, the Governments of those which I proposed earlier, remains modest in relation to countries are associated with the Programme and the needs for assistance under the United Nations De­ participating agencies on an increa~ingly intensive. scale, velopment Programme, manageable in respect of ef­ ranging all the way fro~u plan1l1ng and c01?mltment fective international administration, and completely by both parties of essential resour~es to.attam ~g.reed feasible in terms of ability to pay. objectives, through close collaboration With participat­ ing and executing agencies in implementation, to ~s­ sistance in mobilizing investment and other essential * follow-up measures after direct project support has ** been completed. 111. The importance of human resources develop­ ment, in contrast to material resources development, is 105. Much of the joint national and international now widely recognized. But there is still a tendency community effort is being. devoted. to bridging .~re­ to think of human resources development in the more investment gaps. Many major studies for the utlhza­ limited sense of meeting the manpower needs of the tion and conservation of natural resources have already modern State. This is a much too narrow approach. produced dramatic results, thus providing one mark Some 40 per cent of the population in the developing of the practical orientation of assistance under tl~e countries is under fifteen years of age. The majority United Nations Development Programme. But thiS of these young people are ill-fed, have had little or no work consists of more than surveys and feasibility. ex­ modern medical attention and are unschooled or in­ aminations. Every project in this field involve.s the adequately schooled. It is unrealistic to expect that t'raining of local personnel and thereby an extensIOn of by some miracle these people, on reaching the age of the capacity of the country to undertake-on its own­ eighteen or thereabouts, will be transformed into active ,further such studies, and to put them to productive use. and intelligent members of their communities-or even 106. Similarly, the local res~arch labor.atori~s, ~x­ be able to absorb a high leyel of training, if offered. perimental stations, demonstratIOn. and dlssemmatlon Consequently, much more attention must be given to institutions which have been estabhshed and expanded th,e huge task of preparing the young for life fr0111 the with the P~ogramme's assistance, are at the same time earliest possible moment. augmenting the availability of scientific knowledge ~nd 112. The United Nations Children's Fund, in co­ the capacities of t~ch~ical services ~n. ~he develop~ng operation with the United Nations and the specialized nations for its apphcatlon..These actlYltles are .helpmg agencies concerned, has for some till1~ been devotil~g to bring developing countnes and their people 111to t~e the greater part of its resources to tlus task. The aid mainstream of modern technology. In the process, thiS given is practical and consists primarily. of supplies; is improving, increasing and d~versifying product!on equipment and the financing of local costs, largely for in agriculture and industry, while also strengthen111g training. The approach is pragmatic und is geared public services. to country priorities; about 50 per cent of its funds 107. The Programme's concept ot technical and pre­ are devoted to the field of health, about 28 per cent investment assistance has emphasized the human fact~r. to education and most of the balance to nutrition and The ProO'ramme is devoting nearly 40 per cent of Its child welfare. In each of these areas, in-country train­ expenditt~res to education and trai~ing. ':fhis ~l1ay be ing of the instructors and pers01111el needed to run the the investment of its resources wluch Will bring the services is an important element, which is being in- IlItroduction 13 creasingly appreciated by countries as essential to their 117. The United Nations International Conference development. The Fund can, of course, hope to play on Human Rights held at Teheran brought fruitful no more than a catalytic role, but even th~s requ!res results and encouraging expressions of fai~h from the substantial financing. Its resources have been mcreasmg, eighty-four Governments represented. Agamst a back­ but not fast enough to keep pace with country requests. ground of current world divisions and unresolved situa­ tions, in which military or political contingencies 113. The role for which the Fund is perhaps better lif~ m~ny Imown-that of providing world-wide emergency. aid seriously affect the conditions of of !mman to mothers and children-has in the past year requIred beings, the Conference succeeded m statmg m the additional efforts, and these efforts are continuing. I.n Proclamation of Teheran its unanimous approval of a addition, and acting on the basis of its purely humalll­ number of basic assertions and purposes. These pro­ tarian mandate and through the channel of the In­ nouncements and resolutions, which will come before ternational Committee of the Red Cross, the Fund has the General Assembly and other competent organs of been providing what aid it could to Nigeria-mainly the United Nations, include a solid confirmation of the hiah-protein food, drugs, medical supplies, some key basic value of the Universal Declaration of Human pe~sonnel and, most recently, a helicopter operation. Rights as a common understanding of the peoples of the world concerning the inalienable and inviolable r.ights of all members of the human family and the solemn * proclamation that the Universal Declaration constitutes ** "an obligation for the members of the international com­ 114. Now in its third year of existence, the United munity". The principles and commitments contained in Nations Institute for Training and Research is already other United Nations instruments, in particular the making a valuable contribution to the United 1':J"ations International Covenants on Human Rights, the Declara­ in both training and research. Through a varlety of tion on the Granting of Independence to Colonial proarammes designed to meet both urgent and long­ ten~ Countries and Peoples, and the International <;onve.n­ needs 'of the world Organization and of the de­ tion on the Elimination of All Forms of RaCIal DIS­ veloping countries, the Institute i~ training agents ~or crimination, were reaffirmed, and repeated calls were development and for multilateral dl'plomac~; conduetmg made to hasten the ratifications required to bring into hiah-level seminars on problems of mternatlOnallaw and co~operation' force those of the instruments which are in treaty form. undertaking research studies of direct Stress was laid on the necessity of· eliminating in our relevance to' the role of the United Nations in the time all forms of discrimination already prohibited by political, economic and social fields. Some of the early the United Nations Charter and particularly racial dis­ fruits of its research activities are almost ready for crimination; nazism, neo-nazism, racism and especially publication; they are now being "scrutinized" by p~nels a,partheid were once again strongly condemned and an of distinauished scholars and statesmen. The. Institute energetic. urgent and systematic role is recommended is well cftl the way to becoming, in the words of the for the United Nations and its agencies in their elimina­ eminent Chairman of its Board of Trustees, a magnet tion. The human miseries resulting from armed con­ for persons of recognized intellectual eminence. There flict were deplored. Accent was placed on compliance is just one thing that it lacks-adequate ~nances .to with, and better application of, internatiOl.1ally a~reed enable it to continue with even more effectiveness Its leaal standards during internal as well as mternahonal role as the central organ for training and research in co~fEcts and on the necessity of revising existing con­ the United Nations system. ventions with a view to a better protection of civilians, prisoners and combatants, as well as the prohibition VI. Human rigbts and limitation of the use of certain particularly in­ humane methods and means of warfare. Considerable 115. The year 1968 was proclaimed by the General stress was laid on the need for effective action to bring Assembly as the International Year for Human Rights about the advancement of and equal opportunities for with the special purpose of initiating a world-wide re­ women in modern society, with appropriate United view at aovernmental and non-governmental levels, Nations assistance. The indivisible link between the of th~ pro;ress which has been ~chieved since the ~dop­ realization of economic, social and cultural rights and tion of the Universal DeclaratIOn of Human RIghts, the achievement of civil and political rights was reaf­ of assessing the methods followed and of outlining firmed and the importance of the preparation of a relevant programmes for future action. global 'strategy for development by the United Nations 116. Reports already received indicate positive and and of effective steps towards disarmament was un­ encouraging response to the Assembly's appeal for "in­ derlined. tensified efforts and undertakings in the field of human 118. The Conference drew atte'ntion to the relation­ rights" during the Year, ~rom ~ember an~ o~her ship between population growth and human rights. !t States, the specialized agencIes, regl.ona} orgalllzatlons pointed to the detrimental effects of the present rapId and many non-governmental or/5alllzatlons. concer~e.d rate of population growth in some areas of the world with the nrotection of human rIghts. Mealllngful 1111­ on the possibilities of rapidly achieving adequate stand­ tiatives st;ch as those to review and extend the scope ards of living, thereby impairing the full realization of of existina legislation, to study practices, to examine lo~al Nat~ons a~d human rights, and asserted that, while the protection compliance with United sta1"!dards to of the family and of the child must remain the concern utIlize educational methods and mformatlOn medIa to of the international community, parents have a basic keep alive interest in matters of human rights are being human right to determine freely and responsibly the taken or planned in each of the regio,ns of th~ world. It number and spacing of their children. may be said therefore that the twentieth anlllversary of the adoption of the Universal Declar~tion of Hun?an 119. The Conference recognized the vast prospects Rio-hts is beino- commemorated by focusmg the attentIon for economic, social and cultural progress brought about of b the worll on the importance which the United by scientific discoveries and their technological applica­ Nations attaches to respect for human dignity. tions; it was aware, however, that these developments 14 IntroductUm I might entail complex ethical and legal problems with 124. There is no doubt that stronger support can be respect to human rights. It felt that appropriate studies given by Governments to United Nations efforts in this should be undertaken by the organizations in the United essential field. This support may manifest itself in many Nations family, particularly as regards respect for ways: by designating or assigning to United Nations privacy m.d the protection of man's physical and in­ deliberative bodies and seminars on questions of human tellectual integrity, progress in biology, medicine and rights, as many Governments do, specially qualified bio-chemistry, the use of electronics and recording tech­ persons enjoying great moral authority in their coun­ niques and, more generally, the balance which should tries; and by encouraging more widespread publicity be established between scientific and technological pro­ for United Nations achievements and activities by gov­ gress and the intellectual, spiritual, cultural and moral ernmental agencies or by private information media. advancement of humanity. 125. Obviously this support may best be expressed 120. Many other decisions and approaches of the by hastening the processes of signing and ratifying Teheran Conference deserve to be specifically noted, United Nations. instruments relating to human rights including insistence on the genuine recognition of free­ which, as I have already pointed out, are the outcome dom of expression, freedom of conscience and of re­ of negotiations and, in most cases, unanimous votes ligion, the importance of effective and general access of duly instructed governmental representatives. Results to courts of law, and the protection of the rights of in this regard are not encouraging and so far the In­ detainees as well as the right to participate in the ternational Year for Human Rights has brought little political, economic, cultural and social life of one's improvement. country. 126. The reasons for these delays should, perhaps, 121. However, the trend of discussions at the In­ be studied and special efforts may have to be made to ternational Conference on Human Rights pointed once accelerate the pace of ratification. The reasons for the again to the challenge presented to the United Nations present situation might include an exaggerated sensi­ and its Member States by the problem of "implementa­ tivity to any form of international accountability and a tion". Full recognition was repeatedly given at the misunderstanding of the role of United Nations agencies Conference and elsewhere during the International Year which, experience has shown, strive much more to for Human Rights to United Nations achievements in encourage and conciliate than to allocate blame. Last elaborating and defining world-wide standards of re­ year I pointed to the fact that ratifying international spect for human rights appropriate to the aspirations of covenants and conventions on human rights is a true the international community. I had occasion to stress in sign of devotion to international solidarity and a con­ my previous reports the importance of this norm­ crete contribution to efforts to attain the objectives of setting work of the Organization in the defence of the Charter, even for those countries which may believe human rights both. by itself and in relation to the other that it is not necessary for them to become parties to purposes of the United Nations: the maintenance of United Nations instruments because they already have international peace and security, the promotion of Cl adequate national guarantees. harmonious economic and social development of hu­ 127. Given special attention by Member States in the manity and the formulation of the international law coming months, the important Convention on the Elimi­ of the future. None the less, addressing the Conference, nation of All Forms of Racial Discrimination which I said: "The ultimate objective of United Nations ef­ has already been ratified or acceded to by twenty States forts must obviously be the implementation of the could easily obtain the seven ratifications or accessions standards at the levels where they can be enjoyed and necessary to bring it into force. This would enable the exercised by the people concerned." United Nations usefully to contribute to the solution 122. This obvious truth, however, raises a number of of one of the most vital problems of our times and set questions. Having been elaborated after strenuous and up the first conventional set of implementation methods sometimes prolonged efforts by duly designated govern­ with regard to human rights within the United Nations mental representatives, based on detailed studies and the system. I also note with concern the fact that the In­ work of competent experts, are United Nations stand­ ternational Covenants on Human Rights of December ards for human rights sufficiently well known? Are 1966, although signed by nearly thirty States, have been Governments paying sufficient attention to United ratified by none in spite of the encouragement given at Nations recommendations to make these international the last session of the General Assembly by a unani­ commitments, where appropriate, part of the law of mous vote of 112 Members. their lands and the basis of administrative and judiciary 128. Still, it is the practical application of the stand­ aation? Are these standards being given sufficient con­ ards proclaimed in United Nations instruments by those sideration in specific situations when other pressures in positions of authority which is the ultimate test. appear, whether political or military, economic or social? In the past year United Nations organs and conferences 123. The answers to these questions are fortunately found it necessary to express themselves forcefully with far from completely negative. Calling at the Teheran reference to specific situations indicating insufficient Conference '£or a stock-taking of United Nations pro­ col:1cern for the rights of the individual, the persistence grammes and activities for the promotion of human of the policy of apartheid in southern Africa being one rights, I had, however, to observe: example. The need for the international community, "On the one hand, there is the remarkable effort represented by the United Nations, to state its serious of the international community to define common preoccupation with situations implying disrespect for aspirations on a world-wide and regional basis. On human rights may be almost irresistible, but more and the other hand, it is clear that, in spite of the greater more clearly heard is the demand of world public awareness and demand for the respect of the indi­ opinion that the Organization play a more active role in vidual, serious violations of human...rights, including helping to bring remedies and alleviate human suffering resort to violence and terror, contmue to occur m a in spite of all existing obstacles. number of places and these are made known and 129. It is also worth noting that the Teheran Con­ publicized more than ever before." ference and subsequently the Economic and Social -.,,_.,.,.._,._._------~-. ----_._---~~~------~. ~<,;~40~------.-.~"",.,,·m_, ....••.~.- --,,- ..--.,~,,- ...•; •..",.--.-~.~,.-, ---. . 1f,troductum 15 Council showed awareness of the current aspirations of Republic of South Africa is definitely moving towards large sectors of the young' generation. Both the Con~ the exclusion of any possibility of peaceful change of ference and the Council recognized youth'.~ special sen­ the system of government and the achievement of sitiveness to infringements of human rights as well political, economic and social equality by its non-white as the desire of the young "to have their full share majority. . in the establishment of major humanitarian demands 134. In face of this unyielding <)osition, the leaders Th~y of our century". also recognized that in the of the oppressed majority have !> .•cd their conviction rapidly changing conditions of the contemporary. w~rld that they have no means of restoring their rights but by it is essential better to understand new ways of tlllnkmg armed struggle. It appears that an armed conflict is and the outlook of peoples in the stand they take towards already in progress in Southern Rhodesia, where a the rights of man. They stressed the need of extending number of encounters with security forces of South to youth an education in the spirit of the most noble Africa and of the illegal regime of Ian Smith have humanitarian ideals of humanity and the importance of been reported lately. There is no denying that by pursu­ harnessing youth's enthusiasm and energy for world­ ing more aggressively its policies of apartheid and wide economic and social development and for the pro­ through collusion with the Salisbury regime, the South motion of human rights. They recommended, therefore, African Government has set not only South Africa but that Governments and also the United Nations, the the whole of southern Africa on a collision course. The United Nations Educational, Sci~ntific and Cultural danger of such collision in the area is all the more Organization and .other international agencies should real since it has been reported that South African of­ study the question of the education of youth all over ficials have accused the nearby independent States of the world with a view to developing its personality and the Republic of Zambia and the United Republic of strengthening its respect for human rights and funda­ Tanzania of having provided assistance to the so-called mental freedoms, and they stressed the importance of terrorists. Furthermore, by continuing to occupy Na­ interesting and involving youth in both national life mibia in flagrant violation of the international status of and international co-operation. the territory and by openly intervening in Southern 130. Irrespective of any judgements as to methods Rhodesia, South Africa has directed a serious challenge used in recent months by youth leaders and youth to the authority of the United Nations. organizations in many parts of the world to express 135. The Security Council had not considered the their views, it mtlst be recognized that those who belong question of a.partheid since 18 June 1964; nor has it to the younger generations and whose future must be found it possible, as requested by the General Assembly the concern of all, give voice, sometimes confusedly at its twenty-second session, to resume consideration but always forcefully, to their criticism of the difficulties of the question with a view to ensuring the full im­ encountered by our societies in adjusting to what appear plementation of the relevant resolutions and the adop­ to them as the ineluctable demands of our times in tion of more effective measures to secure an end to the regard to respect for the rights of the human personality. policies of apartheid. They consider, often rightly, that solutions could and should be found. In a world of plenty, or one capable 136. After considering the matter at its twenty­ of the achievement of plenty, they cannot understand or second session, the General Assembly placed emphasis accept what appears to them as an acceptance of un­ on the need for appropriate measures to be taken by the worthy situations or attitudes of passiveness or cynicism. Member States to facilitate more effective action, under the auspices of the United Nations, to secure the 131. Most of youth's aspirations towards a better elimination of a.parthei-d. It also stressed the need for world are in no way opposed to those consistently ex­ effective measures to be taken by the United Nations, pressed by United Nations organs, and the. Organiza­ the specialized agencies and non-governmental organiza­ tion could only benefit from providing a channel through tions to ensure the widest dissemination of information which these deeply felt concerns can be better under­ on the evils of apartheid and on the efforts of the in­ stood and studied, and constructive confrontations be­ ternational community to secure its elimination. tween spokesmen of the various generations harmo­ niously conducted. The results may hopefully lead not 137. The General Assembly also requested the only to better understanding and greater co-operation Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid of the between generations, but to fruitful developments in Government of the Republic of South Africa to intensify deE10cratic processes. its efforts to promote an international campaign against apartheid and, to this end, authorized it to hold during VII. A.partheid the International Year for Human Rights a special session away from Headquarters. Pursuant to this re­ 132. The situation resulting from the unresolved quest, the Special Committee held a series of meetings question of the policies of apartheid of the Government in Europe during which it consulted with Governments, of the Republic of South Africa has, in the past year, movements representing the oppressed people of South become more serious than ever. For the South African Africa, anti-a,pa.rtheid movements, other non-govern­ Government has not only continued to enforce its poli­ mental organizations concerned with the situation in cies with more determination in South Africa but it has South Africa and a number of experts on South African also been attempting to consolidate and extend the problems, on ways and means of promoting the inter­ influence of its racial philosophy in neighbouring ter­ national campaign against a.partheid. In the report ritories, notably Namibia and Southern Rhodesia. which it will submit to the General Assembly, at its 133. The South African Government, in defiance twenty-third session, and to the Security Council, the of the resolutions of the Security Council and the Gen­ Special Committee will make appropriate recommenda­ eral Assembly, has enacted new legislation aimed at the tions based on proposals that have been submitted to it. consolidation of racial separation and segregation and 138. The humanitarian programmes instituted under the repression of the opponents of its policies. Some General Assembly resolutions to assist the victims of of the new measures seem to indicate clearly that the racial discrimination have continued to function nor- ~~~-~.._.._"...----~_. --,.",,,~~,,,.,.,,._~,~, ~'- 16 Introduction mally, thanks to the generous contributions from l"r.em~ country, were encouraging it to persist in its racial bel' States. policies. The Assembly requested them lo take urgent steps towards disengagement from South Africa and to 139. Although the United Nations Trust Fund for takc all appropl'iatc m~asures to facilitate more effective South Africa received substantial contrilmtions in 1968, action, under the auspices of the United Nations, to the number of contributing Member States is still very secure the elimination of upartllChl. The effectiveness of small. the United Nations in facing the gravc South African 140. The General Assembly, upon my recommenda~ challenge ancl in staving olf the violence ancl counter­ tion, decided at its twenty-second session to integrate violence that are threatcning the peace ancl security the special educational and training programmes for of thc whole of the African continent, and indeed of South \Vest Africa and for Territories under Portu~ the world, will depend upon the determination of the guese administration and the educational and training J\'!ember States concerned to face their responsibility programme for South Africans. It also decided to in­ ancl also upon the willingness of the members of the clude in the programme assistance to persons from Security Council to resume consideration of the matter Southern Rhodesia, provided that that was done only and upon their ability to reach an agreement on in so far as it did not interfere with existing United meaningful effective measurcs. Nations schemes br educational assistance for such persons and that it was done with due regard to Se­ VIII. Decolollizutioll curity Council resolutions relating to non-recognition of the illegal regime in Southern Rhodesia. 146. In the introduction to my last annual report, I recalled the continued endea,;ours of the United 141. I appeal to Member States to provide in larger Nations in the field of decolonization and outlined measure financial support to these humanitarian pro­ the serious and difficult problems which called for the grammes through which the international community chse and urgent attention of the competent organs of can show its determination to alleviate the plight of the the Organization. victims of racial discrimination. 147. During the intervening period, Southern 142. As requested by the General Assembly, the Yemen, the territory formerly known as Aden, followed International Day for the Elimination of Racial Dis­ by Nauru, Mauritius and Swaziland, acceded to in­ crimination was commemorated this year in solidarity dependence; Equatorial Guinea is expected to attain with the oppressed people of South Africa. The In­ the same status within the next few months. Further­ ternational Day was observed collectively by Member more, constitutional advance has taken place in certain States at United Nations Headquarters and individually of the smaller dependent Territories. Even so, it is a in a great number of :Member States either through matter of deep regret that nearly eight years after the Governments or non-governmental organizations. the adoption of the historic Declaration on the Granting The occasion was appropriately used to promote public of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, awareness of the evils of apartfwid and support for there has been no significant movement towards internatirnal action. peaceful resolution, in accordance with the Charter, 143. The reports of the Special Rapporteur ap­ of the remaining major colonial questions. The reason pointed under res?lution 7 (XXIII) of t~le C0I11I~llS­ for this state of affairs is to be found not in a lack of sion on Human RIghts to survey past Umted NatlOl~S concern or effort on the part of the United Nations, efforts to eliminate the policies and practices of a,parthmd but principally in the non-compiiance by certain ad­ and to study, 'inter a.lia, the legislation and practices in ministering Powers with the relevant United Nations South Africa, the reports of the Ad Hoc W orldng Group resolutions and in the reluctance of some other Powers of Experts established under resolution 2 (XXIII) of to extend their full co-operation to the Organization the Commission on Human Rights to investigate the in the application of effective solutions to the out­ treatment of prisoners, detainees or persons in police standing problems. custody in South Africa and the allegations of infringe­ 148. Of these problems, those currently plaguing ments of trade union rights in South Africa and also the southern part of Africa are in a class by themselves, the consideration of these reports by the Commission for they represent the most conspicuous mass violation on Human Rights, by the International Conference on of human rights and fundamental freedoms. As I have Human Rights held in Teheran from 22 April to 13 observed elsewhere, the collective determination of th~ May 1968, and by EconOl.llic and Social COl!ncil the United Nations to put an end to colonialism seems at its forty-fourth seSSIOn, testify to the many eftorts to have met a solid wall of defiance in that part of of the United Nations to deal with the situation in the world. South Africa. 149. With regard to Namibia, the Government of 144. As I have pointed out, the latest developments South Africa has continued its refusal to give effect in South Africa and in southern Africa seem to indicate to the resolutions by which the General Assembly that the danger of violent conflict in South Africa and terminated the Mandate, brought the Territory under in southern Africa in general, resulting from the policies the direct responsibility of the United Nations and and practices of a,partheid of the Govern!l1cnt of the established the United Nations Council for Namibia Republic of South Africa, should not be chscounted or to administer the Territory until its independence. minimized. In my view, action should be t~ken without South Africa has also refused to relinquish its control delay in accordance with relevant resolutIOns adopted th~ over the Territory and has frustrated the efforts of by Security Council and the General Assembly. the Council to carry out the tasks assigned to it. 145. In this connexion, the General Assembly at its That Government's disregard of United Nations de­ last session emphasized the responsibility of those cisions relating to the Territory as well as of world States, particularly the major tradi.n~ partners of, South public opinion was further illustrated by its arrest, Africa which, through !helr polItical, econom,;: and trial and conviction, under retroactive legislation, of military collaboration WIth the Government of that a considerable number of Namibians. The negative and """":"'~..'" -- IlItroductioll 11 intransigent attitude of the South African Government with Portu~al. The intensification of militar)' operations was again demonstrated by its obstruction of the ~y that Government in Angola, Mozambique and Counci}ls efforts in April of this year to proceed to Guinea, called Portuguese Guinea, has aggravated a Namibia in order to take up the functions assigned situation which in 1965 the Security Council con­ to it .in the Territory by the General Assembly. In sidered a serious disturbance to international peace pursuit of its policies of aparlllcld, the South African and sccurity. Concerted international action has been Government, on 6 June 1968, enacted legislation de­ limited mainly to efforts at withholding assistance signed to further the setting up of Bantustans in which would enable the Portuguese Government to South \Vest Africa. It has also initiated repressive continue its suppression of the people of the Terri­ measures of forcible settlement in segregated areas. tories and at pro\riding humallitarmn assistance to 150. As the General Assembl)' has pointed out in refugees therefrom. Not only is there a need to increase its appeals to the States concerned, a measure of these efforts, but .further international measures are responsibility for the present serious situation must required, in m)' view, to assist the peoples of these be borne b)' those States whose continued political, Territories to attain their goal of freedom and in­ military and economic collaboration with the South dependence and to make the Portuguese Government African Government has had the effect of encouraging a willing partner in this ·mdertaking. that Government to defy the authority of the United 153. The colonial problems to which I have referred Nations and to impede the attainment of independence are different in magnitude, if not in kind, from those by Namibia. It is obvious, nevertheless, that meaningful affecting most of the other remaining dependent Terri­ progress towards the objectives laid down in the tories. With regard to these Territories, the admin­ relevant United Nations decisions depends essentially istering Powers, far from forswearing their obliga­ upon the willingness and ability of the Security tions under the Charter, have agreed and undertaken Council to bring effective pressure to bear on the to give effect to the principle of self-determination as South African Government to abandon its present welI as to their pledge to ensure the political, economic, course and abide by the relevant resolutions so as social and educational advancement of the people. Yet to enable the Council to perform its functions. there is considerable misgiving among the majority 151. The question of Southern Rhodesia has also of Member. States as to the modalities, emn~ lis and given cause for increasing concern. Two and a half pace adopted by the administering Power, ..::erned years have passed since the unilateral declaration of in the decolonization of these Territories. 'urther­ independence by the illegal minority regime in Southern more, as I have previously indicated, their compliance Rhodesia, and over eighteen months have elapsed since with specific recommendations on these Territories by the Security Council determined that the situation the General Assembly and the Special Committee in the Territory constituted a threat to international on the Situation with regard to the Implementation peace and security. Yet neither the action taken by of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to the Government of the United Kingdom nor the Colonial Countries and Peoples has, on the whole, diplomatic and other sanctions applied in varying been less than full. degrees by other Governments in response to the 154. Equally, their attitudes for the most part have relevant United Nations resolutions have led to the been either negative or qualified when the question speedy amelioration which the international community has arisen of permitting access to the Territories by had been encouraged to expect. Not content with United Nations visiting groups. These attitudes, flollting the authority of the United Kingdom Govern­ by denying to the United Nations a most important ment by proceeding with the execution of a number source of information on the political, economic and of African nationalists, the illegal regime has, with social situation in these Territories and on the views, South Africa's assistance, resorted to suppressive wishes and aspirations of the peoples, serve to impede military operations and has pursued the application the search for concrete solutions to the problems of policies of separate racial development, including of the Territories in question; many of them are, plans for creating a fa<;ade of African participation in indeed, afflicted by peculiar difficulties arising from its activities. These developments represent a further their smalI size and population, their limited natural challenge to the general desire for rapid advance in resources and sometimes their geographical isolation. the Territory towards majority rule and a just society It is my belief that the development by the admin­ free of discrimination. \iVhile the Security Council's istering Powers of a positive approach to the question decision in 1"1ay 1968 to impose extensive mandatory of visiting groups would contribute as much to the sanctions against the illegal regime by no means adoption of decisions which would take full account detracts from the responsibility of the United Kingdom of their demand for realism and balance as to the Government, as the administering Power, to restore attainment of the objectives laid down in the Charter constitutional rule in the Territory, it is imperative and the Declaration, to which administering and non­ that all Governments, including itl particular the administering Powers alike subscribe. Governments of Portugal and South Africa, should 155. The emphasis which the competent United comply with that decision so as to pave the way for Nations bodies place on the value of visiting groups the attainment of the Declaration's objectives. reflects the conviction widely held among Member 152. As regards the Territories under Portuguese States that the Organization, including, as appropriate, administration, it is a matter of deep regret that yet international institutions associated with it, should play another year has passed without progress in the an increasingly active role in as£isting the emergence implementation of the pertinent United Nations resolu­ of colonial peoples from dependence to independence. tions. In violation of the principles of the Charter, It was in this spirit that the General Assembly, at its the Portuguese Government has continued to deny the twenty-second session, requested me, in consultation people of these Territories the right to self-determina­ with the administering Power and the Special Commit­ tion and independence and has maintained its policy tee, to ensure the presence of the United Nations in of political and economic integration of the Territories Equr: " rial Guinea for the supervision of the forth- ~~-'_. --.....-....------_._~~..~_ -=,~-_._..--..-..---~-"---''''' ".",.-~~-~~'~=~._-~~ 18 IlItroductioll coming general elections and to participate in all other necessary to defer the submission of this review and measures leading towards the independence of the reappraisal of United Nations information activities, Territory. I am confident that the mission which, in and of the recommendations consequent upon them, consultation with the Government of Spain and the to the General Assembly at its twenty-fourth session. Special Committee, I was able to appoint and dispatch Meanwhile, however, I feel I might usefully submit to Equatorial Guinea in August of this year will play for the consideration of !\'Iember States certain broad a constructive part in enabling the Territory to accede lines of thought which I judge to be of importance to to independence as a single entity in conditions of the work of the Organization and with which I think peace and harmony. there will be general agreement. 156. Another category of problems deserving careful 161. It is satisfying to note that, in recent years, attention relates to Territories which are the subject there has been an increasing recognition of the value either of conflicting claims to sovereignty or of special of public information as an adjunct of the substantive interest to some Governments by reason of geographical, activities of the Organization, coupled with an increas­ historical or other circumstances. While the General ing demand, both by major organs of the United Assembly and the Special Committee have affirmed Nations and by subsidiary bodies, for wider publicity that the Declaration is fully applicable to such Terri­ through all media. The formal recognition of the need tories, their recommendations have taken into con­ for increased information activity is particularly to be sideration the special features of ettch, with a view welcomed in relation to those specific areas of United to facilitating the resolution of the divergent claims or Nations concern where, by unanimous or near-unani­ interests through mutual accommodation and goodwill. mous vote, the membership has decided to set up I am certain that these bodies will consider and make certain immediate and well-defined objectives of high further recommendations which will help the Govern­ priority, Prominent among these, of course, are-in the ments concerned in resolving the problems to which economic and social field-the national and interna­ I have alluded within the context of the Declaration. tional mobilization of resources, energies and skills for 157. In a year that has been proclaimed as Inter­ attaining the minimum goals set for the present United national Year for Human Rights, I think it is appro­ Nations Development Decade by the General Assembly priate to recall that, in the Declaration on the Granting and those that will be established for the decade to of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, follow. Similarly, among the objectives calling for the General· Assembly declared: immediate and decisive action in the political field are "The subjection of peoples to alien subjugation, decolonization; the uprooting of the philosophy and domination and exploitation constitutes a denial of practice of apartheid in South Africa, or wherever fundamental human rights, is contrary to the Charter else it may spring forth under whatever name; and of the United Nations and is an impediment to the the establishment of human rights everywhere. promotion of world peace and co-operation." 162. Viewed against the urgency implicit in these It also declared: collective objectives-whether situated in the area "Immediate steps shall be taken ... in all . .. terri­ defined as purely economic and social or that regarded tories which have not yet attained independence, to as being political in character-it is difficult to over­ transfer all powers to the peoples ... without any emphasize the importance of public information. A conditions or reservations, in accordance with their large, sustained, .co-ordinated and sharply focused in­ freely e.xpressed will and desire, without any dis­ formation effort, both natienal and international, is tinction as to race, creed or colour, in order to enable indispensable if achievements are to match intentions, them to enjoy complete independence and freedom." if means are to be married to ends and if reality is not 158. It is my earnest hope that, aware of the hope to lag dangerously behind proclaimed goals. and inspiration that dependent peoples everywhere 163. However, I believe it useful at the same time derived from the adoption of the Declaration, all Mem­ to bear in· mind certain parallel considerations that ber States, in particular the administering Powers, are necessary to put the role of public information will in a spirit of constructive co-operation do their vis-a.-vis the United Nations into a proper and mean­ utmost to assist those peoples to realize their legitimate ingful perspective. aspirations to freedom and emancipation. 164. First, I think it is necessary to restate that the primary responsibility as well as the main burden of IX. Public information informing the peoples of the world about the aims and objectives of the United Nations rests with national 159. In the introduction to the last two annual Governments and with national media of information, reports on the work of the Organization, I thought it official and non-official. This necessity derives, first, useful to outline certain concepts and considerations of course, from the constitutional division of labour governing the organization and conduct of information between national and international information services, activity, both national and international, in support of as defined by the General Assembly itself in its resolu­ the aims and objectives of the United Nations. Last tion 13 (1) of 1946. But it also has its roots in practical year, I indicated that I would submit to the General considerations. The task of informing the world's Assembly at its twenty-third session a fuller report peoples is too large and too complicateq by considera­ on the information activities of the United Nations tions of varying socio-political interests and cultural itself, both in the fields of economic and social develop­ patterns for an international information service itself ment, as viewed in the context of the development to achieve unaided. It is the national information outlets decades, and in the areas of the world Organization's -news media, non-governmental organizations and political preoccupations and responsibilities. educational institutions, etc.-which have both the re­ 160. The appointment of a new Assistant Secretary.. quired facility as well as the agreed responsibility to General to head the Office of Public Information, com­ carry to their own peoples in their own idioms the bined with certain unforeseen circumstances, makes it story of the evolving activities and preoccupations of "'~-i'ltrod1,ction 19 the world Organization. They have also the capacity, recourse, in their relations with other States, to the necessarily denied to interIl~tional organizations,of various means for the pacific settlement of disputes". editorial assessment, interpretation and persuasion which In this context I drew attention to the availability of are, in most instances, essential ingredients of effective the International Court of Justice, as a principal organ information activity. of the United Nations, for the settlement of legal 165. I fecI it necessary, thereforc, to draw attention disputes. This year the Court has, for the first time, once again to the suggestions and recommendations presented a report to the General Assembly. I believe I have already submitted to Member States, at the that it would be to the common interest of the United request of the Economic and Social Council, for im­ Nations if the General Assembly and the other prin­ proving their own national information efforts on cipal organs of the United Nations, in addition to behalf of the activities and purposes of the United the Member States, were to utilize more fully the Nations. machinery of the Court in dealing with problems which 166. This primary responsibility of national informa­ are capable of solution by legal and judicial processes. tion outlets, of course, does not in any way derogate 169. In the same context, I recommended last year from the supportive function of the information activity that a modest beginning might be made to test the conducted by and on behalf of the United Nations value of holding periodic meetings of the Security itself. Practical experience over· the past twenty years Council· at which its members might be represented and more has revealed and emphasized the extent to by a member of the Government or by some specially which national information activity depends, not only designated representative. So far, there has been no for its effectiveness but often for its very existence, follow-up on this suggestion. I would like to suggest upon the support and encouragement it receives from that, as an alternative, it would be useful to take the United Nations Office of Public Information. This advantage of the presence of the Foreign Ministers of international information service constitutes the in­ France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and dispensable infrastructure, as it were, of all national the United States during the coming session of the information activity, both in terms of providing them General Assembly to arrange for them to meet and the necessary raw materials as well as the basic discuss common problems. So far as the agenda for motivations and stimulus. Consequently, I think the such a meeting is concerned, this could be left to time has come for Member States to take the fiscal the Foreign Ministers, or a provisional agenda· could as well as functional decisions necessary to give to be prepared by the Secretary-General. Hopefully a the United Nations Office of Public Information not meeting of the Foreign Ministers could lead to a only the mandate but also the means and resources meeting of the Heads of State and Government of to perform adequately the tasks that rest upon it, the four major Powers. I feel that some such initiative A fully equipped office of public information, acting for is needed at the present time to counteract the serious and on behalf of the United Nations, is not only setback to the detente in East-West relations that has needed but is irreplaceable if the message of the resulted from recent events. A special effort of this United Nations is to reach across national frontiers kind may also prove useful in identifying some major and ideological divisions. issues with regard to which, despite present adverse 167. Last, though perhaps most important, I believe circumstances, big-Power agreement may be possible. it necessary to recognize, not only the inherent pos­ 170. Situations continue to arise in which Govern­ sibilities, but also the built-in limitations of all in­ ments find it useful to request the good offices of formation activity in support of the United Nations, the Secretary-General in seeking to resolve outstanding whether conducted on its behalf individual1y by Mem­ problems between them. One such example was the ber States or collectively by the Organization itself recent hijacking of an Israeli airliner, which was taken through its own resources. Information is a means to to Algiers on 23 July. For many weeks, I exercised an end and cannot be an end in itself. While .an my good offices in an attempt to secure the release active and purposeful programme of public information of those passengers and members of the crew of the is of cardinal importance in supporting the work, aircraft still detained in Algiers, and of the aircraft deliberations and decisions of the United Nations, it itself. In doing so, I was mindful of the recent increase is upon this work and upon these deliberations and in hijacking incidents and of the danger that this trend, decisions that will ultimately depend the success or if not checked, could easily lead to widespread disrup­ failure of the Organization. The mere multiplication tion of international air travel with all the attendant of information output, or the mere intensification of risks involved. If this disturbing trend is to be the use of the means and the media communication­ discouraged, as it must be, it is essential that two whether of the traditional varieties or pertaining to principles be universally observed, namely, that inter­ the newer realms of technology-eannot by itself lead national law and order, as an essential condition of to success where substantive action is lacking or its the freedom and safety of air travel, must be preserved, actual implementation is deficient or defective. And and, secondly, that no one may derive gain or ad­ this is true equally in the fields of economic and social vantage from the lawless act of hijacking an aircraft. endeavour and of political purpose. While information It is a matter for gratification that the Governments can and must support meaningful and purposive of Israel and Algeria heeded my appeal for restraint substantive activity, it cannot supplant it. In the last during this most trying period. It is also appreciated analysis, therefore, it must be recognized that an that in the interest· of international law and morality effective programme of public information must derive the Algerian· authorities finally resolved the problem from and depend upon an effective programme of by the release of the aircraft and its occupants. substantive action. 171. I should like to reiterate that it is desirable X. Other questions and, indeed, necessary for the United Nations to achieve universality of membership as soon as possible 168. In my concluding observations last year I drew and I regret that there has not been a greater interest attention to "the urgent need for States to have wider in solving this problem. It is obvious to me that inas- .~ 20 bltrodllct1'otl much as one of the members of the "nuclear club" 175. The prevailing pessumsm concerning the in­ stands outside the world Organization it is difficult ternational situation, and the recent serious and dis­ to make progress on major issues of disarmament, for tressing developments in Europe should not be used as example, without achieving this universality. The reasons for delaying the search for peace in Viet-Nam. problem of the divided countries is also one that Indeed, the problem of Viet-Nam, complex enough requires attention. In regard to some of these countries, in itself, has often been made more intractable by the at any rate, the political obstacles may not be in­ impact of the conflicting interests of the major worlel superable, while there will be obvious advantages Powers. in admitting them to membership and enabling them 176. For example, there are many people who see to take part in the work of the Organization and in the Viet-Nam war as an ideological struggle. But is making a contribution to the solution of outstanding it not true that such a concept is only concealing problems. the reality of a nationalist struggle which has somehow 172. I drew attention last year to the problem of become the stake in a world-wide strategic rivalry? the "micro-States". I can well understand the reluctance Only the powerful motivation of nationalism could of the principal organs of the United Nations to explain the extraordinary resilience of the Viet-Nmnese grapple with this problem, but I believe it is a problem on all sides during this agonizing war. For the larger that does require urgent attention. The question has Powers interested in the conflict, various particular been considered by many scholars and also by the interests may be affected by its outcome. But, for United Nations Institute for Training and Research. the Viet-Namese, their own identity, their own survival It seems to me that several of the objectives which as a nation is threatened by the prolongation of the micro-States hope to achieve by membership in the fighting. I submit that the time is overdue for a United Nations could be gained by some other form political de-escalation regarding Viet-Nam. All should of association with the Organization, such as the strive now to isolate this conflict from adverse inter­ status of observers. In this connexion, I should like national influences which in the past have caused so to reiterate the suggestion that I made last year that many opportunities to pass, and to let the Viet­ the question of observer status in general, and the Nmnese themselves deal with their own problems. I am criteria for such status, require consideration by convinced that after all the sufferings which their the General Assembly so that the present institutional own past differences have caused, all Viet-Namese arrangements, which are based solely on practice, could must realize that their energies and their great talents be put on a firm legal footing. should now be turned towards healing their divisions and towards the reconstruction and modernization of 173. In 1969, the International L'lbour Organisa­ both North and South Viet-Nam. The people of Viet­ tion will be completing its first half-century of con­ Nam, in conditions of peace, have a great role to play tinuous effort to build the foundation of peace in social in South-East Asia as a stabilizing influence in a new justice for the common man throughout the world. co-operative effort among countries of the region, In the tradition of the International Labour Organisa­ irrespective of their political systems. tion, its commemoration of the event will look to the future rather than to the past, with the major im­ 177. Again and again, I have consistently advocated mediate emphasis being placed on a world employment a military de-escalation by all sides, starting with a programme designed in the spirit of the second De­ complete cessation of the bombing and all other acts velopment Decade to mobilize human resources to of war against North Viet-Nam. I am fully aware of meet human need. The Director-General of the In­ the objections which are raised against this essential ternational Labour Organisation has informed me of first step. Undoubtedly, there are risks for all sides his desire, which I endorse, to mark the half-cen­ which engage in such a difficult negotiation. In my tenary of that organization's co-operation with the view, it is for the side which is militarily more power­ League of Nations and the United Nations by forging ful to take the initiative. I reiterate my personal con­ an ever-closer partnership in the building of peace viction that a cessation of the bombing would set in through social justice. I am confident that in the course motion positive steps which can eventually lead to a of the anniversary year all of the appropriate organs of peaceful settlement in South-East Asia in accordance the United Nations will welcome full discussion of how with the Geneva Agreements of 1954. this can best be achieved. 178. In this connexion, I would recall one or two important aspects of these Agreements. In the Final XI. Concluding observatiolls Declaration of the Geneva Conference, the Powers agreed on a number of principles for a future political 174. In the period under review, I regret to have settlement for what had been French Indo-China. to report that little progress, if any, has been recorded Among such principles, article 6 clearly stipulated that towards the growth of international order based on lithe military demarcation line is provisional and should law and justice. On the contrary, there has been a not in any way be interpreted as constituting a political serious decline in the standards of international ethics Or territorial. boundary". However, the political ma­ and morality, with States relying increasingly on chinery for the reunification, namely, the elections force and violence as a means of resolving their projected for July 1956, failed to materialize. This is international differences. This tendency to return to one of the main problems which will no doubt receive force as a means of national policy strikes at the very the attention of the negotiators, even though it appears basis of the United Nations; just settlement is sacrificed from the programmes of all the interested parties, to superior might, and international tensions are con­ including the National Front for the Liberation of sequently heightened. If this trend is not reversed, South Viet-Nam, that the unification of the two parts and if the principle of non-intervention in the free will involve a long process of adjustment to be decided destiny of nations is not re-established, the future of by degrees when the situation is more settled. international peace and security itself is indeed a very 179. There is another principle included in the dark one. 1954 Declaration which now should clearly constitute '-~bltrodt/ction 21 the basis of a settlement. This is the neutralization would suffer a severe reversal similar to that which of the entire Indo-Chinese peninsula, including aU of has resulted from the Viet-Nam war. Viet-Nam. To become a source of stability in the 184. There would be a renewed intensification of whole region, this neutrality should be accepted and, the cold war, taldng the world back to the worst preferably, guaranteed by aU the larger Powers. days of the cold war in the early fifties. 180. There is widespread disappointment at the 185. Regional defence alliances would find new apparent lack of progress of the preliminary conversa­ justification and support, with greater reliance being tions between the North Viet-Namese and United placed on the outmoded and dangerous concept of States delegations which have been taking place in international stability through military blocs. Paris since early :May. Even though it was clear from the beginning that these talks would be difficult and 186. The "hard liners" and the "ha'wks" in many that meanwhile the fighting would continue, both parties countries would derive from the experience of Czecho­ must be aware that the usefulness of the Paris talks slovalda encouragement and nourishment for their posi­ might be jeopardized if attention were to be concen­ tion that there should be no attempt at coexistence or trated on the conduct of military operations. One would accommodation with the socialist countries; and the at least hope that, by opening these first direct contacts, voices of liberalism and progressive thought in many the interested Governments have clearly signified that parts of the world would be muted. they know peace will not be brought about by military 187. The action in Czechoslovakia was one of over­ means or military escalation. Indeed, I hope I am right whelming military force undertaken by one of the two in thinking that, by persevering in these peace discus­ super-Powers, assisted by four of its allies, in respect sions, the interested Governments are showing their of a small State which was, in fact, a loyal member of desire to cling to the only serious sign of common its own bloc. The repercussions of this act of sheer will and hope for peace that exists. If this is true, military power were felt around the world and en­ then, despite the discouraging developments of this gendered a feeling of dismay, uneasiness and insecurity. ominous year, all will not have been lost. In my view, it would be a fatal errOr to underestimate the unique 188. In the situation in which Czechoslovakia found opportunity which the Paris talks represent in them­ itself, the United Nations afforded a unique opportunity selves, an opportunity which should be fully utilized to its Gove1'l1ment to present its case to the world by the parties concerned in taking the decisions that in the forum of the Security Council. Subsequently, are required to move ahead. as is known, the Government of Czechoslovakia re­ quested that this matter should no longer be considered 181. As Secretary-General of the United Nations, by the Secmity Council and should be removed from I have consistently-indeed, necessarily-deplored any its agenda. and every resort to force as a means of settling inter­ national differences since such action is in contraven­ 189. It is, certainly, a frightening commentary on tion of the Charter of the United Nations and results the ominous state of world affairs that one super­ in a set-back to the establishment of a world order State or the other can become exercised to the point based on the rule of law rather than military power. of resorting to military action because of the liberaliza­ It follows therefore that I deplored the action of the tion of a regime in a small country like Czechoslovakia Soviet Union and four of its Warsaw Pact allies in or because of an internal upheaval in another small sending their armed forces into Czechoslovakia in late State, such as the Dominican Republic. In both cases, August 1968. Even though at the time only unofficial the action taken was regarded by those who took it as information about events in Czechoslovakia was avail­ necessary self-protection without any thought of terri­ able to me, I issued a statement to the effect that I torial acquisition. In the case of Czechoslovakia, the deplored the use of force anywhere to settle inter­ parties directly concerned seem to have reached an national problems, as contravening the United Nations agreement on the phased withdrawal of the foreign Charter. I characterized the developments in Czechoslo­ troops. I would very much hope that this agreement vakia as another serious blow to those concepts of would be implemented as expeditiously as possible. international order and morality which constitute the Such action would be in the interest of mutual goodwill very basis of the entire structure of the United Nations and also of international peace and security. and which are at the same time the prime objectives 190. It is, however, a dismal outlook for the small which the United Nations has been persistently striving and mi1itarily weak States of the world-as the over­ to achieve throughout the more than twenty-two years whelming majority of States are-if they can hope to of its existence. The same morning I also.strongly control their own affairs only in so far as they do appealed to the Government of the Union of Soviet nothing to displease a powerful neighbour. Socialist Republics, through its Permanent Represen­ 191. It seems to me that now, more than ever, tative to the United Nations, to exercise the utmost there is need for that will for peace and the matching restraint in its relations with the Government and strength and courage in action which alone can enable people of Czechoslovakia, who have been showing for Governments to exercise the restraint in word, policy some time a genuine desire to fashion their own future and deed necessary to prevent a mounting spiral of ~vithout outside interference from any quarter. fear and danger. 182. I feared at the time of this action, and my 192. In this regard, I have in mind certain attitudes fear continues, that there would be a number of con­ and policies which, I think, could prevent an irreparable sequences which could have a seriously adverse effect rupture in East-VIest relations and thus revive hope upon international relations. Of these, I may mention among men. a few. 193. There should be an avoidance of the all too 183. The East-West detente, which seemed to me obvious temptation to use the events in Czechoslovakia to be showing signs of re-invigoration in recent months as grounds for an intensified build-up of nUclear and and to which I had attached very great importance, thermo-nuclear weapons. Such a course would only 22 compound the madness of the existing nuclear arms 199. As I had occasion to state on 13 September race. The only reason which could induce either the 1968 to the Assembly of Heads of State and Govern­ Soviet Union and its allies, or the Western Powers, ment of the Organization of African Unity meeting to attack the other would be a pervading fear hy one in Algiers, the resolutions adopt'~d by that organization side of a pre-emptive strike by the other. This fear is concerning the conflict in Nigeria are the basis for fed by, and grows proportionately with, the increase my attitude and approach to this problem. I also in the offensive military power of the two super-States. expressed to that Assembly my earnest hope that, It is, clearly, the build-up of excessive military power p~rsuant to the efforts of the Organization of African beyond any reasonable demands of defence which has Unity, in particular its six-member Consultative Com­ become the most ominous threat to world peace. mittee under whose auspices useful preliminary talks recently took place at Niamey and Addis Ababa, 194. I also believe that it would help to reduce fruitful negotiations may take place leading to a just tension if both the NATO and Warsaw Pact Powers solution which would guarantee the security of all would refrain from using Czechoslovakia as a reason the people of Nigeria. for a military build-up to the point that it becomes a positive, offensive threat rather than a strictly defensive 200. In the resolution approved in Algiers by the posture. Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Or­ ganization of African Unity took note of the report 195. A constructive and most helpful action in these on Nigeria submitted by the Consultative Committee, perilous, times would be the strengthening of the called upon the secessionist leaders to co-operate with peace-building and peace-keeping capability of the the federal authority with a view to restoring peace United Nations system. Conversely, military alliances and unity in Nigeria, recommended to the Federal must gradually give way to a global concept of interna­ Military Government in Nigeria, if preceding con­ tional security and international progress. This will ditions are fulfilled, to proclaim a general amnesty re.quire an intensified effort to reach the minds and and to co-operate with the Organization of African hearts of all men with the irrefutable message that war Unity with a view to ensuring the personal security is not only folly and madness, but that mankind's future of all Nigerians without distinction until mutual con­ depends upon its abolition. There is a need, now more fidence is restored, and called again upon all parties imperative than ever before, for world-wide education concerned to co-operate with a view to ensuring the towards international understanding and peaceful rapid .delivery of humanitarian relief aid to all those coexistence. who are in need of it. It also called upon all States 196. The world badly needs an end to the outmoded Members of the United Nations and members of the but dangerous tactic of trying to cope with the problem Organization of African Unity to abstain. from any of the sixties by the strong-arm methods common to action which might jeopardize the unity, territorial the thirties. It is high time for the great military integrity and peace of Nigeria. It further invited the Powers to realize that the present superior military force Consultative Committee, ·in' which it renewed its con­ on which they rely so heavily and are prone to use fidence, to pursue its efforts with a view to imple­ so freely, is in itself a grave and ever-present danger. menting the resolutions adopted at Kinshasa and Used injudiciously, it also saps the most valuable Algiers. I sincerely trust that this resolution may serve asset of any nation, its moral authority. Instead of as a framework to bring about the restoration of maintaining the policy of reliance on their own military peace and with. it the end to this tragic fratricidal power and the unceasing build-up of arms for their conflict. national security, they should take those steps which 201. .The activities of the United Nations family they alone can effectively take to reduce international tegarding. the conflict in Nigeria. have been of an tension through progressive disarmament. in regard to exclusively humanitarian nature. Deeply disturbed about bQth nuclear and' conventional weapons. At the same the plight of· the population in' the. war-affected areas tim,e,' the major Powers .should realize that it is as of Nigeria,. I :indicated on ·13 July 1968 to General much in their interest as it is in the interest of the Yakubu .Gowon, Head of the Federal Military Govern­ smaller Powers for all Member States to abide faith­ ment of Nigeria, that the humanitarian organs of the fully by the provisions of the Charter, and to use United Nations were ready to make their contribution the United Nations as their chosen instrument to to meet the urgent needs of civilian victims of the maintain peace and to achieve a just and stable world hostilities and I also stated my willingness to send a order. representative to Lagos immediately to discuss the modalities of this humanitarian task. On 29 July 197. In reality, the two super-Powers hold the General Gowon confirmed his acceptance of my offer master-key to peace in the world. Little wars, or wars to send a representative and, consequently, on 1 August by little States, can be contained so long as the super­ I appointed Mr. Nils-Goran Gussing as my represen­ Powers do not pose a threat of the big, the nuclear, tative to assist in the relief and humanitarian activities the ultimate war. for the civilian victims of the hostilities. After con­ 198. In the final an;; . :.} there can be no solid sultations in New York and Geneva, Mr. Gussing foundation for peace in th ~ 10rId so long as the super­ arrived in Lagos on 17 August. In the meantime, Mr. Powers insist on taking unilateral military action Henry R. Labouisse, Executive-Director of the United whenever they claim to see a threat to their security. Nations Children's Fund, had been in Nigeria, had Why should they also not bring their fears and com­ travelled extensively in many of the areas where the plaints about threats to their security to the Security population, especially children, were in dire need of Council, as they regularly demand that less powerful supplies and had made arrangements for the .assistance States do? In the Cuban missile crisis this course which the Fund has been providing to the affected proved helpful, and it could prove equally useful in population. other cases where big-P9wer interests and peace are 202. for the purp.ose of co-ordinating efforts and both directly involved. thus undertaking the most effective action, it was agreed ~' . It,frodllcflOJI 23 by a number of organizations, both governmental and 205. I am well aware that this document must private, that all the humanitarian aid to the victims make gloomy reading. I do not believe, however, that of the Nigerian conflict would be channelled through a facile optimism would be justified under present the International Committee of the Red Cross. This international conditions. At the same time, I feel that arrangement, which includes the relief activities of it is not enough to bemoan the past; we must also the United Nations, mainly those of the United Nations renew our efforts to promote the cause of international Children's Fund, still stands. understanding and rededicate ourselves to the prin­ 203. l\'[ore recently, in response to a request from the ciples of international order and morality set out in Federal Government that I appoint an observer to the Charter. It seems to me that such an occasion visit the war-affected areas in Nigeria, on 18 September for rededication will present itself to all Member I designated IVIr. Gussing for this purpose. This ad­ States as wc approach the twenty-fifth anniversary ditional responsibility will be undertaken by Mr. Gus­ of the founding of the United Nations. I believe that sing within the framework of his mandate as my Member States would wish to celebrate this occasion representative on humanitarian activities in Nigeria. with due solemnity and I should like to suggest that, His tusk is to see for himself the situation of the very early in the twenty-third session, the President population in those areas, to make an assessment of of the General Assembly may, after due consultations, the relief needs there, to recommend ways and means appoint a Committee of Member States with a request of expediting the distribution of relief supplies and to to them to. submit their report for consideration by report directly to me. the Assembly before the close of the present session. 204. It is regrettable that the efforts to speed up I hope that the Assembly will be able to adopt recom­ the distribution of supplies to the distressed areas mendations which will make it possible to celebrate, have been hampered by difficulties arising from the in a most fitting manner, the twenty-fifth anniversary conduct of the military operations by both sides. There of the United Nations. . is. no question that there is great need for larger Yb--C_ shipments of relief supplies, but the immediate and a..~-.::.;..:;-_ greater problem is to secure a fuller co-operation on the part of those bearing responsibility in the areas (Sigllcd) U THANT of the conflict as regards facilities for the movement Secrcfary-Ge'lCral and distribution of supplies. 24 September 1968 HOW TO OBTAIN UNITED NATIONS PUBLlCAT10NS United Nations publications may be obtained from bookstores and distributors throughout the world. Consult your bookstore or write to: United Nations, Sales Section, New York or Geneva.

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