to take measures to improve the way in which they dealt with asylum claims. The current discussions on fair and efficient procedures were a key test in that regard. 4. In Central and Eastern Europe, while the numbers of refugees fleeing persecution for their political views had declined dramatically as more open and democratic societies had been established, age-old ethnic and religious conflicts had become a prime cause for the movement of hundreds of thousands of people in the past few years. A/AC.96/SR.452 page 3 5. In Central America, as elsewhere, UNHCR had the responsibility to ensure that refugees contemplating return had access to the information necessary about conditions in their communities of origin in order to make informed decisions, and to monitor the safety of returnees in those communities. It was a cause for serious concern that persons returning to El Salvador, some as early as 1987, had still not received official documentation. It was also important that UNHCR strengthen its protection activities and be given the possibility to implement them more systematically, particularly in El Salvador, in order to prevent incidents such as that which had taken place in February 1990 in the Corral Piedra settlement in Chalatenango. Close consultation between UNHCR and NGOs was essential to ensure the safety of the returnees. His organization urged donor Governments to adhere to the financial and political commitments made at CIREPCA and attach importance to the First International Meeting of the Follow-up Committee. 6. In South America, the transition to civilian government in Chile meant that many Chilean refugees were considering return. Such efforts should be encouraged and supported. 7. With regard to South-East Asia, the situation in the detention centres in Hong Kong was most alarming. Families were being held in long-term incarceration in prison-like conditions, and his organization was roost 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the situation of refugees and asylum seekers, highlighting the need for fair and efficient procedures, ensuring their safety, and providing them with access to information and protection. It also mentions the importance of cooperation between organizations and governments to address the concerns of refugees. The text does not appear to discuss economic development, natural resources, industry, transport, communication, international trade, employment, or culture.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, Education