In 1994 the General Assembly of the United Nations designated 1996 "International Year for the Eradication of Poverty". The aim of this initiative was to raise awareness of poverty eradication as the basis for strengthening peace and securing progress. In 1995 leaders from 117 countries attending the World Summit for Social Development pledged their nations to the eradication of poverty, support for full employment and the creation of stable, secure and just societies.