1990s declared UN Decade of International Law.

The General Assembly on 17 November declared the period 1990-1999 as the United Nations Decade of International Law, thus heeding a growing world-wide recognition of the need to strengthen the rule of law in international relations.

The Assembly stated (44/23) that the Decade should promote acceptance of and respect for the principles of international law; promote means and methods for the peaceful settlement of disputes between States, including resort to and full respect of the International Court of Justice; encourage the progressive development and codification of international law; and encourage the teaching, study, dissemination and wider appreciation of international law.

The Secretary-General was asked to begin work on a programme of action for the Decade, including the possibility of holding a third international peace conference or other suitable international conference at its end.

The Assembly on 4 December also condemned as criminal and not justifiable "all acts, methods and practices of terrorism wherever and by whomever committed", and called on all States to refrain from organizing, instigating, assisting or participating in terrorist acts in other States. Resolute measures to eliminate international terrorism and its underlying causes were asked.

The immediate and safe release of all hostages and abducted persons, wherever and by whomever they were being held, was also asked. Concern was expressed over the growing and dangerous links between...