3
P
rince
of
A
sturias
A
wards
1981-2014. S
peeches
Laureates. Excerpts
The situation in many parts of the African continent can only be described as calamitous. The
spectre of famine, starvation, violence and diseases, such as AIDS, is stalking at a time when
science and modern technology are reaching the heights of accomplishment. The international
community responds with various forms of aid. We welcome and need this solidarity, with the
injunction that what our continent needs, above all, is development, to promote and realize our
human potential at its fullest.
Development is in the interest of all humankind. Massive inequality in our globe is as dangerous,
unjust and destabilising as gross inequalities within a country. The North-South debate must be
renewed and the international structures of cooperation must be strengthened.
Nelson Mandela
—
Prince of Asturias
Award for International
Cooperation
1992
In 1992, Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)
was President of the African National
Congress (1991-1997).
—
Excerpt from the speech given on
the occasion of receiving the Prince
of Asturias Award for International
Cooperation on 31/10/1992.
