conquest of space, utilization of the resources of the oceans, etc., there were now considerable means available to put an end to hunger, sickness, poverty, illiteracy and other problems of humanity. 42. His delegation stressed the urgent need for all States to observe the provisions of the Declaration on the Use of Scientific and Technological Progress in the Interests of Peace and for the Benefit of Mankind, adopted by the General Assembly in 1975. In accordance with those provisions, it was important that all States utilized scientific and technological progress in the interests of peace and for the benefit of mankind in order to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. Humanity was, however, going in a different direction and there was great resistance to complying with the provisions of the Declaration, especially from those who were interested in the arms race in order to obtain nuclear supremacy. The aims of the Declaration were being impeded by the enormous extent of the nuclear arsenals, which were like a bomb about to explodeJ the achievements of genetic engineering and biology, as well as of molecular biology, which could be applied to all kinds of negative effects, including irradiation from space; the continuing refinement of chemical weapons; including binary chemical weapons and the transformation of outer space into an arena of military rivalry for some countries. All those activities were accompanied by strategies and plans to justify a war and a nuclear victory which would be the worst catastrophe in the history of mankind. The First world war claimed 9.4 million lives, the Second World war 50 million; a third world War could put an end to humanity. 43. Respect for the right to life was the essential basis for the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms proclaimed in the Charter of the United 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the potential of scientific and technological progress to address various global problems, such as hunger, sickness, poverty, and illiteracy. However, it also highlights the obstacles and threats posed by the arms race, nuclear arsenals, and military rivalry, which could have devastating consequences for humanity. This suggests that the text is more concerned with the relationship between technology and human rights, rather than a specific economic or environmental issue.

**Category**
Science and technology, Humanitarian aid and relief