World Economic and Social Survey 1972

World Economic Survey 1972 complements the documents prepared in connection with the biennial appraisal of progress under the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Decade. According to the Survey, an upsurge in production which got under way in the second half of 1971 has continued into the early months of 1973 and is projected to continue, at least for this year. Despite the breakdown of the international monetary system in August 1971 and the uncertainty that has prevailed ever since, international trade expanded with great vigour in 1972 and seems likely to continue on an upward trend in 1973. In a number of places, energy shortages have emerged, and in the face of the continuing high rate of increase in demand, there is now growing concern about an energy crisis. Meanwhile, both unemployment and price inflation rates remain above tolerable limits. The latter is generally recognized as a major structural problem among the developing countries.

• Download full report