a combination of measures in respect of nutrition to ensure the harmonious growth of children, in the field of health, to prevent illness, and in that of education to ensure their emotional and intellectual development. As a result of the creation of the child welfare homes in 1987 the number of children receiving care rose by over 50 per cent in ccanparison with the number who had formerly received attention from the Colombian Family Welfare Institute under its traditional method. The rapid growth of child protection has been rendered possible by the decision to make mothers themselves responsible for implementing the programme. Child welfare homes are now operating in 1,000 marginal districts in 140 municipalities. The coverage provided this year will continue to expand and within four years 1 million children will receive care under this community-managed system. In addition, a further impetus has been given to the SURVIVE programme which made it possible to vaccinate 3 million children in 1987. Chapter III, part 2 (a) gives details of the activities of this programme. Subprogramme; Community development and_citizens* participation Reforms designed to enhance citizens' participation by means of administrative decentralization, consultation of the population and the election of mayors by popular suffrage are highlighted. The Plan to Combat Poverty provides an opportunity for public and private institutions to encourage appropriate forms of community organization in line with the social change under way. Participation in the Plan by the coiiimunities and by the family units which constitute them should enable citizens to assume management responsibility for improving their own living conditions with support from the local administration. Links are forged within the community which pursue common objectives, thereby laying the foundations for a relationship with the State wherein popular organizations acquire the social and civic weight to be expected in a democracy. E/1986/4/Add.25 page 20
**Analysis**
The text appears to focus on social welfare and development programs aimed at improving the well-being of children, promoting community participation, and reducing poverty. It highlights the success of child protection programs, the expansion of child welfare homes, and the importance of community organization and citizen participation in improving living conditions.

**Category**
Health, Education, Humanitarian aid and relief