political pluralism. The essential point is that the development of all our societies can only be enhanced when people are free to exercise their democratic rights. Individuals must have the opportunity of participating in the reaching of decisions -whether at the national or the local level -that directly affect their daily life. Now, the effective exercise of these rights depends in part upon the existence and effectiveness of the appropriate democratic institutions. Bcr/gt A/S-18/PV. 3 52 (~rs. Landry, Canada) Both urban and rural communi ties should be able to elect their own bodies to take decisions on the provision of services relating to public utilities, education, healthu water supply and other parts of the infrastructure. In the last decade we have seen the emergence of new democratic governments in Eastern Europe. We know that significant progress has been made in the assumption of power by democratic Governments in Latin America, Africa and Asia. There are other examples where, as a result of free elections, Governments have had to reform their institutions in order to give the people greater participation. Finally, it is critical that the administration of justice be independent and that public administration be impartial and consistent. The problem of corruption is of concern to citizens and Governments throughout the world because it can have devastating effects on national development. Besides the obvious costs and the distortions that corruption produces in decision-making machinery, it undermines the public's confidence in the State institutions. The system of government and public administration must, in the final analysis, be accountable to the people and responsive to their needs. For many years regional conflicts resulting from confrontation between various ethnic groups and difficulties over the sharing of natural and other resources were exacerbated by the super-POwer rivalry. The difficulties which arose from that 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of political pluralism, democratic rights, and the role of institutions in enhancing the development of societies. It also touches on issues like corruption, accountability, and the need for responsive governance. These themes suggest that the text is primarily focused on the political and institutional aspects of development, rather than specific sectors like economy, industry, or environment.

**Category**
Politics, Governance