human rights instruments. Referring to article 3 of the Convention, the representative of the State party said that the USSR opposed all forms of racism in general and apartheid in particular. The USSR had repeatedly spoken out for the creation of a democratic State in South Africa that would respect the interests of all parties concerned. In that connection, the Soviet Union welcomed the recent settlement in Namibia and the release of Nelson Mandela. 256. Describing the political, legislative and institutional aspects Of perestroika, the representative stressed that the wide-ranging process of democratisation brought in its wake severe difficulties in relations between the Union and the Republics. Perestroika and glasnost had given a new impetus to the aspirations of the nationalities, which claimed the right to self-determination and greater freedom for their cultures, The tensions had also been exacerbated by the crisis that was shaking power structures and by the economic difficulties affecting the country. The Government was therefore working for the conclusion of a wide range of agreements to stabilize the political situation in the country and create the necessary conditions for a consensus that respected the interests of the whole population. In that context, the President of the USSR, whose post was of recent creation, was called upon to play a vital unifying role for the country. In conclusion, the representative of the State party pointed out that the -6O- restructuring of the country was oriented towards eliminating all forms of racial discrimination and that it could not be carried through SucceSsfully without the help of the entire international community. 257. Noting the quality, frankness and objectivity of the eleventh periodic report of the Soviet Union, owing to the new thinking current in the USSR, members of the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on the political and human rights situation in the Soviet Union, with references to perestroika, glasnost, and the country's relationships with other nations. It does not mention economic development, natural resources, or environmental issues, and the discussion of employment and industry is limited to the context of the country's transition to democracy. The text also touches on cultural and scientific aspects, but these are not the primary focus. Therefore, it is likely that the category is related to human rights and politics.

**Category**
Human rights instruments, Politics