World Leaders

Humankind has many challenges: to obtain a lasting peace between nations; to preserve the quality of the environment; to conserve natural resources at a sustainable level; to advance the economic and social progress of the less developed nations; to assure basic human rights and at the same time accept responsibility for the planet Earth and future generations of children; and to stabilize population growth.

Degradation of the world's environment, income inequality, and the potential for conflict exist today because of rapid population growth, among other factors. If this unprecedented population growth continues, future generations of children will not have adequate food, housing, health services, education, earth resources, and employment opportunities.

We believe that the time has come now to recognize the worldwide necessity to achieve population stabilization and for each country to adopt the necessary policies and programs to do so, consistent with its own culture and aspirations. To enhance the integrity of the individual and the quality of life for all, we believe that all nations should participate in setting goals and programs for population stabilization. Measures for this purpose should be voluntary and should maintain individual human rights and beliefs.

We urge national leaders to take an active personal role in promoting effective policies and programs. Emphasis should be given to improving the status of women, respecting human rights and beliefs, and achieving the active participation of women in formulating policies and programs. Attention should be given to realistic goals and timetables and developing appropriate economic and social policies.

Recognizing that early population stabilization is in the interest of all nations, we earnestly hope that leaders around the world will share our views and join with us in this great undertaking for the well-being and happiness of people everywhere.

The Statement has been signed by the heads of government of the following countries: