Since the ratio of the ageing in the populations of the developing countries is increasing, special attention must be given to their needs in respect of eradication of poverty, nutrition, health, employment, social security, family support and, above all, development of social and physical infrastructure. In this regard we fully support the contents of the statement made by the Chairman of the Group of 77. The disabled are probably one of the most neglected persons in the United Nations programmes. A package encompassing prevention, enabling legislation, equalization of opportunities, and necessary technical and financial resources has been conceptualized and partially implemented. We must give it further impetus by supporting the efforts of the Special Rapporteur and contributing generously to the UN Voluntary Fund for Disability.
Cooperatives functioning worldwide are a very important actor of civil society.
The contents of the report should be widely disseminated particularly to the developing countries in order to create greater awareness about the enormous potential of the cooperatives in promoting the Summit goals of poverty eradication, productive employment and social integration. In fact, this report can be developed into a full-fledged study on the subject which can serve as a basis for a steady social revolution. The main objectives of this Programme are eradication of poverty, redress of gender inequities, rural development and environmental protection. The Government of Pakistan has identified the most vulnerable groups, namely, women, youth, children, widows, orphans, the elderly, ex-convicts, migrants and refugees for social welfare and rehabilitation programmes. Greater attention is being paid to the promotion and protection of rights of women, children, religious and ethnic minorities and those living in poverty.