African Union Segments Refer to the different types of activity within the economy e.g. manufacturing, service delivery etc. Separation of Powers The assignment of different powers (legislative, executive, judicial) to distinct branches of government to protect liberty Social inequalities Social inequalities designate the different treatments that may be to the advantage of a social class, a group or an individual in relation to others and which establish status hierarchies. The differences associated with origins (social classes, country, culture), level of education, sex, age, colour of the skin, physical appearance, religious practices... are taken into account by sociologists for their contributions to economic inequalities (incomes, unemployment...). These inequalities may be explained and assumed (level of education for access to post of responsibility) or implicit (inequality between salaries of men and women) A range of political, legal, social, environmental and economic interventions aimed at Social protection supporting individuals, families and communities in their efforts to manage the risks confronting them with a view to reducing their vulnerability and achieving greater social equity. Stakeholders In a more general framework, Agenda 21 considers commitment and real participation of all social groups as a condition of sustainable development. Section III of Agenda 21, which concerns strengthening of the role of major groups presents the list: women, children and young people, native population communities, non-governmental organizations, local communities, workers and their unions, trade and industry, scientific and technical community, farmers. xv