The pamphlet notes that the rapid increase in the numbers of older people worldwide represents a social phenomenon without historical precedent. The percentage of people in the United States ages 65 and older has increased from 4.1 percent in 1900 to 12.6 percent in 1999. Older people now make up 14.3 percent of the population of developed countries and 5 percent of the population of developing countries. The UN is encouraging countries, organizations, and governments at all levels to observe the International Year of Older Persons. The UN principles for older persons include independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and dignity. Resources for observing the International Year of Older Persons include the Federal Administration on Aging, the Illinois Department on Aging, AARP, the UN Program on Aging, and the United States Committee for the Celebration of the UN International Year of Older Persons. Telephone numbers and websites of the organizations