subject of great political complexity, in relation to which there was a great divergence of points of view. Everyone strongly condemned international terrorism but differed widely on its definition. Attention was also drawn to the link between terrorists and drug traffickers and the observer called for increased international co-operation in combating those groups. 33. The question of the establishment of an international criminal court was being discussed within the framework of consideration of the draft code of offences against the peace and security of humankind. Because of the urgent need for an international approach to the global criminal problem of illicit drug trafficking, such a court could also assist those legal systems that bore an overwhelmingly disproportionate share of the burden of prosecuting international drug traffickers. An international criminal court would provide specialized machinery to deal with international crimes in a competent and expeditious manner. If it were possible to set up such a court, the maintenance of the rule of law would be enhanced. 34. In relation to extradition and mutual assistance, some representatives thought that the profound changes that had taken place in recent decades made imperative a re-examination of the ideas on which they were based. In the face of changed needs, a redefinition of their underlying concepts had become essential. In that respect, it was stressed that while previously 90 per cent of extradition cases involved offences mainly breaching the laws of only one country, much crime was now of a transnational nature, usually with premeditated acts involving the breach of laws of a number of countries. Judicial co-operation and extradition was, therefore, crucial for international co-operation against crime, and States that refused to co-operate were offering criminals refuge. Model treaties would enhance United Nations activities in that regard. 35. Some participants expressed support for the idea of an international criminal 
**Analysis**
The text discusses international cooperation in combating terrorism and drug trafficking, as well as the establishment of an international criminal court and extradition and mutual assistance in crime cases. These topics suggest a focus on international relations, law enforcement, and crime prevention, which are not directly related to economic development, natural resources, or environmental issues.

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