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AGENDA 21, CHAPTER 23



PREAMBLE TO SECTION III


SECTION III.  STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF MAJOR GROUPS


                               






NOTE:     This is a final, advanced version of a chapter of 
Agenda 21, as adopted by the Plenary in Rio de Janeiro, on June 
14, 1992.  This document will be further edited, translated 
into the official languages, and published by the United 
Nations for the General Assembly this autumn.




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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.


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