Speech #990068945

As we near the 10th anniversary of the Helsinki accords. it is apparent that the reality of life for Jews of the Soviet Union does not live up to the promise of this agreement. We must continue to urge the Soviet Union to abide by the humanitarian principles that it agreed to and which are set forth in the Helsinki final act. During recent years there has been a drastic decrease in the number of exit visas granted. From a high of 51.320 in 1979. the emigration figure has plummeted to only 896 in 1984. a small fraction of the 400.000 estimated to have applied for emigration visas. The Soviets. by reducing emigration levels. are attempting to dampen our hopes. However. for those who wish only to practice their religion or be allowed to leave the Soviet Union for freedom elsewhere. we can not compromise our efforts. The Soviet Union itself set the standard we strive for. The higher levels of emigration that were attained in 1979 can be reached once again. And what is the lot for those who can not leave? Soviet Jews. who express a desire to emigrate. are exposed to governmentsponsored harassment. including dismissal from jobs. expulsion from universities. vilification. confiscation of property. and physical violence. A continuing series of attacks against Hebrew teachers has culminated in a wave of searches. threats. and arrests. In response to these grave injustices. many have spoken out at every opportunity to focus world attention on the actions of the Soviet Union. Other steps have been taken to assure that those who are fortunate enough to be able to leave will have a place to go. As ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee. I am 1 of the 4 Members of the House of Representa tives consulted by the administration on refugee admission levels. I have