The Soviets have been quick to point to their freeing of several notable Soviet Jewish dissidents and human rights activists as evidence of these new reforms. While not wishing to lessen the importance of these events. it is worth noting that other dissidents. with less notoriety. only secured release after signing declarations to discontinue their activities to promote the observance of basis human rights. Further. an estimated 400.000 Soviet Jews. who have officially begun the emigration process. are still waiting to leave with no immediate hope of realizing their desire. Mr. Speaker. it is far too early to cast judgment on the latest Soviet reforms. We can remain hopeful that these reforms will lead to true human rights improvements in the Soviet Union. but we have more reason than not to view their actions with skepticism. particularly In view of the dismally low number of Soviet Jews being allowed to emigrate. the violent attacks recently on western journalists and Soviet human rights advocates. and the long history of repression in Lithuania and other captive nations. Mr. Speaker.
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emigrate emigration