non-racial and democratic Republic of South Africa. 45. Mr. BRAUTIGAM (Federal Republic of Germany), speaking on behalf of the Group of Western European and Other States, said that although it was the first time that delegations had had the satisfaction of welcoming Mr. Mandela to the United Nations, his struggle for human rights and against racial discrimination had been of concern to the Organization for decades. Never compromising his principles and convictions, Mr. Mandela had fought tirelessly against apart·heid ·even from his prison cell. Mr. Mandela's tenacity in fighting for what was right had strongly encouraged the international community in its commitment to democracy and justice for all South Africans. 46. The United Nations had unanimously characterized apartheid as a crime against the conscience and dignity of mankind. Permanent peace and stability in southern Africa could not be achieved until the system of apartheid had been abolished. He extended full support to Mr. Mandela and to all who were striving for a non-racial and democratic society in South Africa. The States on whose behalf he spoke remained convinced that a solution must be arrived at by peaceful means. 47. Positive changes had taken place in South Africa since President de Klerk had come to power, including the recent contacts between ANC and the South African Government. Those changes were an important contribution to the establishment of the necessary climate for free political discussions. The outcome of such a process should be a new constitutional order determined by the people of South Africa and based on the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 48. The road ahead was difficult. As long as apartheid persisted, the international community would abide by its commitment to do everything in its power 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement from a representative of the Group of Western European and Other States to the United Nations, discussing the situation in South Africa and the country's transition from apartheid to a democratic republic. The focus is on the political and human rights aspects of the situation, rather than economic, environmental, or social issues.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, Human rights