emphasis on the prevention of the most common illnesses. In line with the aims of the National Plan to Ensure the Survival and Development of Children, the programme sought to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates among children under five years of age affected by diarrhoea, respiratory infections, perinatal illnesses, diseases which could be prevented by immunization, malnutrition and psycho-emotional deprivation. One of the most ambitious measures undertaken as part of the programme was the declaration of National Vaccination Days. It had been estimated in 1989 that more than 80 per cent of children under the age of one had been vaccinated against tuberculosis and poliomyelitis, and 60 per cent against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus and measles. 62. Turning to the Committee's first written question, he said that international instruments signed by Colombia (treaties, covenants or conventions) were submitted by the Government to the Congress of the Republic for ratification, after which they were automatically incorporated into domestic law through a bill introduced for that purpose. Furthermore, in line with jurisprudence and doctrine, international treaties took precedence over national legislation in the hierarchy of legal texts. 63. Concerning the second question (programmes implemented to promote the rights covered by the Covenant), he replied that for many years Colombia had been benefiting from the opportunities provided by international co-operation programmes and that it had concluded agreements with a number of developed and industrialized countries with a view to reinforcing the national economic and social development plans in various sectors of national life. On the subject of aid from international agencies, Colombia had benefited in the 1960s and 1970s from a very ambitious UNESCO programme aimed at developing primary and secondary education. Furthermore, UNDP had provided substantial assistance for efforts to eradicate absolute poverty. As far as bilateral aid was concerned, several countries, mostly European ones, had helped with child protection projects. 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the Colombian government's initiatives to improve the health and well-being of children, particularly in preventing illnesses and promoting vaccination. It also touches on international cooperation and aid programs related to education and poverty eradication. These themes suggest a strong connection to the fields of health and education.

**Category**
Health, Education