of those countries ’ productive capacity, at the very time when they were being pressed to meet their external obligations by implementing strict austerity Policies fraught with social, economic and political consequences. To use an Arabic proverb, these countries were thrown out to sea with their hands tied behind their backs and asked not to get wet. "This situation has further deteriorated in some developing countries, tn particular the sub-Saharan African countries, as a result of natural disasters that have engendered a series of very serious consequences in large sectors of their economies. These countries need more time and energy to overcome the aftermath of natural disasters than they have at their disposal. "The devastation wrought by desertification, drought and floods has forced hundreds of thousands of persons to emigrate from rural areas, to urban centres, leading to a decline in production, especially of food, and a disruption of the social fabric of the country. BCT/PLJ A/S-18/PV.9 7 (Mr. Abdoun, Sudan ) "The situation has been complicated even further in my country by the constant influx of refugees from neighbouring States. Though we appreciate the international community's efforts to assist us in settling these refugees and helping them lead a stable life, the fact remains that such immigration has been and continues to be a very heavy burden on our already limited resources. "Another salient feature of the 1980s was the fact that the technology transfer effected over that decade did not meet our countries ’ requirements. That, in turn, contributed to exacerbating the imbalance in our country's economy like the economy of other developing countries and, in particular, the growing problem of external debt. "Such a situation calls for a comprehensive approach, one that would recognize the vital link between, and the interdependence of, the various components of the problem. For instance, the question of indebtedness cannot 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the challenges faced by developing countries, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa, in terms of their economic development, natural disasters, and external debt. It highlights the impact of these factors on their productive capacity, social fabric, and economic stability. The text also touches on the issue of technology transfer and its effects on the economy.

**Category**
Economic development, Humanitarian aid and relief