A major cause of oppression and rigidity of human organisation, of the exhaustion of valuable mineral resources and of fossil fuel in particular, of the destruction of the natural environment and pollution of the air, water and land without time to recover, is the excess of population. The growth of population so as to use up such resources as are available frustrates many potential opportunities for humankind. This congress declares that limitation of population is a prime necessity for the creation of a civilised way of life.

The Congress, further, urges nations to provide information, education, and facilities so that persons may make informed, responsible, and free choices in this most important area. It urges too that its member organisations support such efforts wherever possible and participate in programmes of education and public information on population control.

IHEU Congress 1978