He also thanked representatives of NGOs and private corporations and volunteer-sending agencies. He reminded the delegates that the theme of the Conference is urbanization. Over half of humanity will live in urban areas by the year 2000. These areas can be rich in experience and opportunity, humane in their tolerance, and civilized in their diversity. Without good governance these areas can be arenas for crime, civil strife, and disasters of all types, including epidemics and pollution.
Some problems now facing the cities and towns extend beyond national borders.
Dr. N'Dow asked members of the Preparatory Committee to commit themselves to a revolution of new solutions, new ideas, new policies, new tools and new institutions. The next century must do away with all that imprisons and chokes so much of humanity today. We must strive together to build a world fit for all people everywhere. In her concluding remarks, Ms. Elizabeth Dowdswell was encouraged by the progress made during the PrepCom and thanked the various Chairs of Committees and drafting groups. Special thanks were paid to the Habitat II staff and Secretariat.