37. The denial of the right to self-determination had been the direct cause of numerous other human rights violations such as, for example, the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq and the continuing illegal occupation of the territory of East Timor by Indonesia. The imposition of sanctions against South Africa had no doubt played a major role in forcing the white minority regime to rethink its policies. The imposition of sanctions against Iraq because of its invasion and occupation of Kuwait was a necessity for the preservation of international law and order, and of the credibility of the deterrence element of the collective security system constituted by the United Nations Security Council. It was only regrettable that in the past and in other circumstances the major industrial Powers had not taken swift and effective E/CN.4/Sub.2/1990/SR.l2 page 9 measures that would have discouraged other acts of aggression. The invasion and occupation of East Timor, although condemned by the Security Council, had not been followed by punitive measures that would have encouraged Indonesia to desist from further aggression. The highly credible reports emanating from Agia Watch, Amnesty International and an independent study by a prominent group of sociologists from the Indonesian National University of Gadja Madha had revealed that the human rights situation in East Timor had deteriorated since the previous session of the Sub-Commission. 38. Mr. PHARAON (Observer for the Syrian Arab Republic) thanked Mr. Khalifa for his comprehensive report. Although the United Nations had condemned apartheid and had adopted resolutions calling for a boycott of the South African regime, the embargo had not led to the desired results. Financial interests had continued to co-operate with the racist regime. Some States had not taken severe measures, while others had called for a relaxation 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing international relations, human rights, and the role of the United Nations in addressing conflicts and promoting peace. It highlights the impact of economic sanctions on a country's behavior and the importance of taking swift and effective measures to deter aggression. The text also touches on the issue of human rights violations and the need for international action to address them.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, International trade