the basis of demand-curtailment programmes and the benefits of a still sluggish world recovery. It was a deeply-rooted problem calling for fundamental structure of changes, bold reordering of national priorities, more prudent resource management and renewed commitment by the international community to economic co-operation for development. A rural-oriented development strategy was an imperative. Mobilizing and allocating increased resources for rural development through decentralized, local action and private initiative would go a long way towards softening the impact of short-term adju$tment and meeting the nutritional needs of the poorest. At the regional level, African countries needed to intensify mutual economic co-operation as a matter of utmost urgency, especially in sectoral projects having an important social component. 7. Lastly, African development was particularly affected by the problem of institutionalized racism in South Africa. For the victims of apartheid, there could be no genuine social development as long as they were deprived of their fundamental rights. The international community must remain resolute in its support for all efforts to eliminate apartheid. 8. Although the impact of the global recession of the 1980s on development had been severe all around the world, it was important to note that the modest social / ... A/C.3/39/SR.l9 English Page 4 (Mr. Yolah) gains of the 1960s and 1970s had not been totally eclipsed by that recession. With a renewed commitment by the international community, it would be possible to resume progress. 9. Mr. BACKES (Austria) said that at the World Assembly on Aging held in Vienna there had been agreement that solutions could be found through mutual understanding among nations and among the different age groups of society. The fact that the International Plan of Action on Aging had been adopted unanimously demanded a suitable follow-up, particularly at a time of deteriorating international relations. 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the challenges and solutions for African development, mentioning topics such as rural development, resource management, economic cooperation, and institutionalized racism. It also references the impact of global recession on development and the importance of international cooperation. These themes suggest that the text is primarily focused on economic development, but also touches on issues related to human rights and social development.

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