A-21: PREAMBLE MAJOR GROUPS
Distr.
GENERAL
A/CONF.151/26 (Vol. III)
14 August 1992
ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON
ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
(Rio de Janeiro, 3-14 June 1992)
SECTION III. STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF MAJOR GROUPS
Chapter 23
PREAMBLE
23.1.Critical to the effective implementation of the objectives, policies
and mechanisms agreed to by Governments in all programme areas of Agenda 21
will be the commitment and genuine involvement of all social groups.
23.2.One of the fundamental prerequisites for the achievement of
sustainable development is broad public participation in decision-making.
Furthermore, in the more specific context of environment and development,
the need for new forms of participation has emerged. This includes the
need of individuals, groups and organizations to participate in
environmental impact assessment procedures and to know about and
participate in decisions, particularly those which potentially affect the
communities in which they live and work. Individuals, groups and
organizations should have access to information relevant to environment and
development held by national authorities, including information on products
and activities that have or are likely to have a significant impact on the
environment, and information on environmental protection measures.
23.3.Any policies, definitions or rules affecting access to and
participation by non-governmental organizations in the work of United
Nations institutions or agencies associated with the implementation of
Agenda 21 must apply equally to all major groups.
23.4.The programme areas set out below address the means for moving towards
real social partnership in support of common efforts for sustainable
development.
END OF CHAPTER 23
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