to be assessed, short-term indications were that the poorer sections of national societies had continued to experience severely shrinking job opportunities in many parts of the world, with no clear prospect of alleviating unemployment and underemployment in the near future. In many developing countries, not only had personal incomes declined but essential goods and services provided by the public sector had been drastically reduced. 2. Key forces of social change continued to determine the nature, scope and alternative paths of social development. For example, the impact of demographic changes on socio-economic development and on family structures was closely linked to such issues as employment, shifts from agricultural to non-agricultural occupations and varying health needs; such changes would h~ve far-reaching implications, especially for the poorest people, unless immediate measures were taken to reduce hunger and poverty and to expand employment opportunities. The constant growth of urban population stemming from natural increases and internal migration was another factor for change, and the immediate results were most evident in developing countries. Other sources of change were the increase in secondary schooling in many developing countries, the role of technology and the resurgence of confrontations among communities and groups with different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, leading to a reappraisal of the role of organized social groups and individuals in economic and social development. In many developing countries, that reappraisal was taking place against a backdrop of severe social and economic problems. 3. Given the prevailing social and economic difficulties faced by so many countries, a fresh approach was needed in the ongoing development dialogue which would expand the social dimensions of development strategies. There must be a rededication to the principle of encouraging peoples' involvement in development through participatory structures and procedures at the local level and through 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the social and economic challenges faced by developing countries, including unemployment, poverty, and limited access to essential goods and services. It highlights the need for a fresh approach to development strategies that involve people at the local level and address issues such as employment, education, and demographic changes. The text does not specifically mention natural resources, industry, transport, communication, international trade, or humanitarian aid, but focuses on the social and economic aspects of development.

**Category**
Employment, Education, Economic development