Gorbachev assumed the position of Secretary General we have waited for signs of change in Soviet policy toward the Jews. Publically the Soviets insist that all Jews who want to leave the country have done so. and that remaining Jewish citizens are content to stay. Yet thousands still apply for emigration privileges and are denied the right to leave because. according to the Soviet Government. "the current international situation does not warrant emigration." Now that the two countries are taking steps to improve relations. we are pleased and encouraged by preliminary signs of improvement in the treatment of Soviet Jews. In recent months. the longterm grain agreement has been established. arms control talks have resumed. there has been a preliminary meeting of the Joint SovietAmerican Economic Commission. and the suggestion has been made that the U.S.-Soviet bilateral scientific and technological exchanges resume. In keeping with this trend. Jewish emigration rose last month from 97 to 166. Moreover. some longterm refuseniks were among those granted visas. This encouraging news must fuel our efforts. not satisfy them. There are still thousands of refuseniks In the U.S.S.R. and 23 Jewish prisoners of conscience.
Keywords matched
emigration visas