Current Events Review.

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Part of Current Events Review

Title: Current Events Review.
Issue Date: Vol. III (No. 5) November 1947
Year: 1947
Language: English
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extracted text: • What is the Significance of the Greek QueStion? • How is the New Japan Governed Today? • Why lloes France Fear the Reviv~ el ~he Ruhl?? • Has the Vet,o Power been Abused and Misused by the Big Powers? • WBy a.11&,.the Obstructi'\fe Results of the Veto Significant? N,_, 5 November, 1947 CURRENT EVENTS REVIE\V A newsmagazine that complete.s and makes up-to-date the study of history and other social science subjects. DIOSDADO G. CAPINO Editor D. R MANLAPA2 Pnbli:;her NICOLAS ONGKINGKO Circulation Manage1· In this issuePOLICARPIO G. DANGALIO DOMINGO C. SERION Researchers VENANCIO NEBRIDA Cfrculation Representati-re Page Why is the Division of Europe into Two Rival Blocs Significant? 129 What is the Significance of the Greek Question? ................. 133 How is the New Japan Governed Today? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Why does France Fear the Revival of the Ruhr? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Has the Veto Power been Abused and Misused by the Big Powers? . 143 Why are the Obstructive Results of the Veto Significant? ........ 147 Significant World News Roundup ............................. 149 The Philippines and the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 Special Report on the Activities of the United N.ations . . . . . . . . 156 Science Marches On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159 Publi.•hed monthly except May and June by MANLAPAZ PUBLISHING CO, 123-125 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila Subscription: PS.00 a year,. Pl.50 a semester, 30 centavos per copy. '\Vhen changing add1·ess give old as well as new address. Address all conununi .. cations tO the Current Events Review. Copyright, 1947 by D. R. Manlapaz and fJ, G. Capino. Alt rights rese1-...ed. Entered as second-class mail matter January ~1. l!l47 at the Manila post-office. * Is Europe the one to suffer? Why is the Division of Europe into Two Rival Blocks Significant? Specific objectives: 1. To know the causes and significance of the division of Europe into two rival blocs 2. To understand the objectives of the Marshall Plan 3. To understand the ·objectives of the Molotov Plan The One World dream of the late Wendell Wilkie is gradually becoming truly a dream for European countries. No peace could be had on the continent where peoples are divided into two conflicting camps. The events of the last ten months clearly have shown the shar,pness of the division between the Soviet World and the Democratic World. Why is Europe now divided into an Eastern and Western Bloc ? What is the significance of this division? Marshall Plan a challenge to Europe On June 5, 1947, Secretary of State George C. Marshall delivered a speech at Harvard University urging the nations of Europe to cooperatively work together in the reconstruction of European economy. To bring about this reconstruction, Marshall presented Europe a plan. The Marshall Plan gives three requirements for European nations to secure American financial aid: First, the D.ations of Europe must prepare a balaD.ce sheet of their resources and needs. Second, the countries of Europe must collectively prepare a program of self-help for economic recovery. Third, a program outlining how American World Problem dollars may be spent must be submitted to the Unifed States. "The United States economic aid to Europe," said Secretary Marshall, "is directed not against any country or doctrine, but against hunger, poverty, desperation, and chaos. Its purpose should be the revival of a working economy in the world so as to permit the emergence of political and social conditions in which free institutions can exist." Immediate reaction to the Marshall Plan Shortly after the Marshall Plan was announced, Britain and France imme. diately discussed the plan. British Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin and French Foreign Minister Georges Bidault met in Paris on June 17 -18 to niake a preliminary discussion of the plan. The two · leaders invited Russian Foreign Minister Viacheslav F. Molotov to join the Paris talks. The Paris conference of the three foreign ministers was significant in three ways: First, it was the first postwar conference in which the United States was not represented. Second, it was the first post-war conference of . the Foreign Ministers in which the peace of the world was not the subject of the discussion. Third, it was the first postwar conference in which the division of Europe into Eastern and Western blocs was foretold. Anglo-French proposal The Paris conference of the three Foreign Ministers qpened on June 27. • 129 Britain and France proposed the creation of a 11 steering committee" that would first make a survey of Europe's needs and resources and then draw a plan for the economic reconstruction of Europe. The plan will be submitted to the United States for study. Rwsian proposal Foreign Minister Molotov presented a proposal which would require the United States first to detail how much aid she could extend to Europe. Each European country would then make a survey of its own needs and submit the estimate of the help it would need. Causes of conflict among the foreign ministers The three diplomats used very sharp language in the discussion of the proposals. Mr. Molotov bitterly denounced the Anglo-French pro,posal. He said: "The Soviet Government, considering that the Anglo-French plan to set up a special organization for the coordina· tiot\. of the economies of the European states would lead to interference in the internal affairs of European countries, ... rejects the plan as being al· together unsatisfactory and incapable of yielding any positive results.JJ Mr. Bevin and Mr. Bidault refuted the charge made by Mr. Molotov. Both leaders insisted that the plan would not lead to interference in the international affairs of any European country. Europe is now split into two worlds The refusal of Mr. Molotov to accept the Marshall Plan brought about the division of Europe into two rival blocs. What the world feared most finally came - the division of Europe into two . worlds. Mr. Molotov's refusal of the Marshall Plan divided Europe into two rival economic blocs. 130 * Mr. Bevin and Mr. Bidault are, however, determined to carry out the ideas suggested by the Marshall Plan. France and Britain, with 14 other European countries held· a conference in Paris on July 12 for the ,purpose of setting up a ucommittee of Cooperation" which 1should draw a report on the available means and on the needs of Europe for the next few years. The nations that attended the Paris conference were: Country Area (Sq. Mi.) Population 1. Austria 32,369 7,055,000 2. Belgium 11,775 8,400,000 3. Denmark 16,576 4,330,000 4. France 212,741 41,100,000 5. Greece 50,267 7,700,000 6. Iceland 39,709 130,000 7. Eire 26,601 2,956,000 8. Italy 119,733 46,000,000 9. Luxembourg 999 300,000 10. Netherlands 12,742 9,530,000 11. Norway 124,666 3,066,000 12. Portugal 35,424 8,275,000 13. Sweden 173,341 6,760,000 14. Switzerland 16,940 4,485,000 15. Turkey 296,600 19,100,000 16. United Kingdom 93,991 49,700,000 Totals 1,263,263 218,876,000 The nations that refti'sed to attend the Paris conference were: Country Area (Sq. Mi.) Population 1. Albania 10,631 1,140,000 2. Bulgaria 42,741 7,000,000 3. Czechoslovakia 49,321 12,300,000 4. Finland 130,160 3,870,000 6. Hungary 35,911 8,900,000 6. Poland 120,782 22,600,000 7. Ru mania 91,934 15,900,000 8. Yugoslavia 95,983 15,700,000 9. Russia 8,308,634 193,000,000 Totals 8,886,097 280,410,000 Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 What i.s the significance of the split? The division of Europe into Eastern and Western Bloc became definite when 9 countries of Eastern Europe refused to cooperate in working out a general plan for Europe's economic recovery. The split of Europe may have serious economic and political implications. What will be the effects of this division on the political and economic welfare of Europe? Western Europe will be organized in .. to an economic whole.-The acceptance of the Marshall .plan by all the countries of· Western Europe will naturally unite these countries into an economic whole. The countries of Western Europe accepted the Marshall Plan mainly for economic r~asons. They need adequate immediate aid to restore their shattered economy. They lack funds and necessary means for economic comeback. They know that without American aid they may suffer years of economic setback, which might ultimately lead to revolution. And they must unite to get American aid. European economic recovery will be slow.-The division of Europe into 2 blocs will slow down European economic recovery becauSe both blocs are interdependent upon one another. Eastern Europe is very rich in the resources needed by Western Europe. It has abundant agricultural products and a great supply of coal, oil, electric power, timber, and fertilizer. Western Europe can supply Eastern Europe with manufactured articles, industrial equipment, and farm machinery. The economy of Eastern Euro,pe is obviously the complement of that of Western Europe. One would not prosper without the other. The Marshall Plan will revitalize Western Europe.-In spite of whatever the Communists may put in the way to hamper the Marshall plan, a sufficient American aid to the countries of WestWorld Problem ern Europe will sµ.r~ly revitalize the much weakened postwar economy of these countries. Once the economy of Western Europe is stimulated, the natural law of commerce will forcibly attract the trade of Eastern Europe regardless of restrictions. The Marshall Plan spurred the Molotov Plan.-Why did Russia and her satellites withdraw from the Paris conference? Russia withdrew because sh~ feared that the countries of Eastern Europe might fall under American influence. Russia fears that American economic assistance to the countries of Eastern Europe would. weaken "Russian ties" with them. The acceptances of the invitation to the Paris conference by the 16 countries of Western Europe spurred Mr. Molotov to speed u,p. RusSia's counter economic move against the Marshall Plan. The so-called Molotov Plan has become clear. A trade agreement was concluded between Rumania and Bulgaria on June 9; a treaty of 11ecenomic cooperation" was concluded between Czechoslovakia and Poland on July 4; an agricultural and commercial trade agreement was concluded between Czechoslovakia and Hungary on July 10; trade agreements were also signed up between Bulgaria and Russia, between Bulgaria and Finland, between Bulgaria and Hungary, and between Hungary and Finland. All these agreements are designed to make Eastern Europe economically independent of Western Europe. The division of Europe has made the conflict between Russia and the United States more evident.-Russia refuses to cooperate in the working out of a continental plan for the economic recovery of Europe mainly because the aid comes from America. The refusal shows that Russia does not desire the restoration of Europe's economic life and Europe's comfort at the sacrifice of Russian influence. Harold Callender, an outstand· * 131 ing American correspondent in Berlin, says: 0 Rather than see Europe reconstructed with the aid of the greatest capitalistic power. Russia prefers that it not be reconstructed. at least not now. since Russia has another conception of the future of Europe." Likewise. Constantine Poulos wrote in his article. "The Eastern Bloc" in The Nation. "Russia will try to ,prevent American influence from 'infiltrating' into Eastern Europe." Germany will benefit from the split. -Economic experts are agreed that the economic division of Europe would benefit Germany. The Marshall Plan considers the coal and steel production of Germany necessary for the economic recovery of Western Europe. France, however, fears that the increase of German steel and coal production would mean the revival of a strong Germany. For this reason, France wishes to shift the center of heavy industry from the Ruhr to France by increasing her coal production. France believes that a strengthened Germany is a threat to the peace of Europe. But the Marshall Plan centers on the proposition that the increase of coal production in Germany will make the coal imports from Eastern Europe unnecessary. The problem now is: Should the coal production in the Ruhr be increased to obviate coal imports from Eastern Europe at the expense of France ? The French now ask: "Would the he\p be for Germany or for France?" Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Why does the United States demand collective cooperation among the countries of Europe before she extends aid? 2. Is Mr. Molotov justified in saying that the Anglo-French proposal would be an interference in the internal affairs of European count.Ji.es? 3. Russian writers state that the Marshall Plan is a form of 11 economic 132 * imperialism." Do yOu agree with this statement? Why? 4. President Truman once said that countries boycotting the Marshall Plan would not receive aid. Is this policy justified ? Why ? 5. Politically, Europe is split into two blocs; but it is believed that economically it would be impossible to split Europe. Can you give some good reasons why this is 'true ? 6. The Molotov Plan aims to integrate the economies of Eastern Europe so as to offset deficiencies of products imported from the '\_Vest. One writer believes that the Molotov Plan would mean reduced rations for Eastern Europe. Is this statement true ? Why? 7. W. H. Lawrence, a noted foreign correspondent in Berlin, _said: 0 The Marshall Plan is seen as the natural complement of a ,plan for the expulsion of communism by producing conditions of .prosperity. In the same way tbe Molotov Plan is the complement of the Stalin Doctrine of expanding Communism." Could you explain why? 8. What is the significance of the split of Europe into two blocs ? 9. Is the split of Europe a result of the 1Trurnan Doctrine? Why? 10. Which do you think has a better chance of success, the Marshall Plan or the Molotov Plan? Why? References 1. Speech delivered by George C. Marshall on June 5, 194 7 on the "Economic Recovery of Europe." 2. McClelan, Grant S.-"Division of Europe Complicates Task of Reconstruction," Foreign Policy Bulletin, Vol. XXVI, No. 39 (July 11, 1947), pp: 1-2. 3. Dean, Vera, Micheles.-"ls U. S. Fully Aware of Implications of Marshall Offer?" Foreign Policy Bulletin, Vol. XXVI, No. 40 (July 18, 1947), llP• 1-2. (Please tllrn to page 148) Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 " Can you give the· significance of the Greek Question 'I What is the Significance of the Greek Question? Specific objectives: 1. To get acquainted with the Greek Question 2. To understand the findings of the Balkan Commission of Inquiry 3. To get acquainted with the conflicting views in the Balkan Re,port In the early part of December, 1946, Greece filed a formal complaint with the Security Council charging that her three northern neighbors - Albania, Yugoslavia, and Bulgaria - were lending support to guerrillas who are continually attacking her northern frontier. Immediately on December 19, 1946, the Security Council established the Balkan Commission of Inquiry to make an on·the-spot investigation. After four months of work, the Balkan Commission completed its report on May 23, 194i. What are its findings? What are its recommendations? What are the conflicting views between Russia and the majority members of the Balkan Commission? What is the significance of the Greek Question? What ia the significance of the Balkan Commiasion? The creation of the Balkan Commission is significant in modern world diplomacy and world politics. The Balkan Commission was the first commission created by the United Nations to make a formal study of the Greek complaint and also the first international commission to make an on-the-spot investigation. It spent three months conducting hearings ii• the Balkans and makin& trips into the hazardous zones to secure authentic facts. The report Foreign Affairs on the findings of the commission shows "realism and seriousness". This realistic seriousness is clearly shown in the faithful presentation of the arguments of both sides, however bitter. What are the findings of the Balkan Commission? The six-hundred page report of the Balkan Commission contains the testimony of witnesses, the factual conclusions of the Commission, and the recommendations of the Commission for the future. What are the findings of the Commission? 1. Guerrilla activities exist in Greece. These are due to political bitterness and economic difficulties brought about by the last global war. 2. Disturbed situations exist in Greece. These are partly due to bitter political bitterness and economic difficulties. These disturbed conditions have not been eased since the beginning of the war. 3. Most of the countries concernedAlbania, Yugoslavia, and Bulgaria-refuse to accept as final their present frontiers. Bulgaria and Yugoslavia wish to incorporate Greek Macedonia. 4. The presence of political refugees in Gi-eece, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, and Albania create troubles and diSturbed conditions. Many of these refugees are quartered near the frontier of the country from which they came, and are engaged in 11 political and military" activities, hoping "that there will be some violent turn of the tide which will enable them to return to their homes on the conditions they chose." * 133 1, YUGOSLAVIA RUMAN/A What are, the conclusions of the Balkan Commission? The conclusions arrived at by the eight members of the Balkan Commission-Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China, Colombia, Syria, the United Kingdom, and the United States-were opposed by Russia and Poland. France, however, abstained from voting on the conclusions adopted by the Commission. The conclusions approved by the Commission are as follows: 1. It is a majority conclt1sion that Yugoslavia and, to a lesser extent, Albania and Bulgaria have supported the guerriHa warfare in Greece. The Commission found that Yugoslavia had giv134 • en Greek refugees a training course in guerrilla leadership, provided them with arms and military supplies, and had arranged for their transportation into Greece and their hospitalization in Yugoslavia when~ver they were wounded 2. The Commission found that Yugoslavia and Bulgaria had adopted a "policy of support for a separate Macedonian state within the Yugoslav federation.' Macedonia belongs to Greece. 3. Evidences show that since the end of World War II tHere have been numerous violations on the borders of each of the countries concerned. 4. The Commission admits that the disturbed conditions obtainirig in Greece are partly due to the discrimination and persecution of the minorities and radical political groups by the Greek Government in the form of reprisal against the instigators of the civil war of 1944-1945 and against rabid communist propaganda. These two conditions plus the economic catastrophe brought by the last World War had caused thousands of persons to flee tO the mountains or to take refuge on th4!' soil of Greece's three northern neighbors, where Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 they formed groups actively hostile to the Greek government. 5. The Commission, however, firmly states that the existence of disturbed conditions in Greece in no way relieves the three northern neighbors of their duty under international law to prevent and su,ppress subversive activity in their territory, aimed against another government, nor does it relie.ve them from direct responsibility for their support of the Greek guerrillas. What were the recommenda· tions made by the Commission? The Balkan Commission believes that measures should be taken to prevent repetition of these offenses on the part of Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, and Albania. It offers several recommendations to prevent such offenses, but they are objected to by Russia and Poland. What are the recommendations '! 1. The Security Council should make formal appeal to the governments of Greece, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, and Albania to establish more neighborly relations with one another. They should be asked to refrain from supporting any revolutionary movement. 2. The Security Council should make a decision that future "support of armed bands formed in the territory of a state crossing into the territory of another state" should be considered as one of the threats to the peace of the world. The Security Council should then be empowered to use various forms of coercion to remove the threat to the peace of the world. 3. Frontiers treaties should be concluded by the four countries. The treaties would place on each government the responsibility to insure that its nationals or residents do not violate its -neighbor's sovereignty nor interfere in its neighbor's internal affairs. 4. The four governments should take precautionary action against political Foreign Affairs refugees. Refugees should be removed from frontier areas. , They should be segregated. The respective governments must see to it that the refugees do not engage in any political or military activity. 5. The governments CT the four countries should make arrangement for the peaceful assistance of voluntary transfer of national minorities. The Bulgarians now living in Greece, for instance, should be given assistance to return to Bulgaria and vice versa. 6. The Security Council should establish a neutral frontier commission to report on t.he workings of the frontier conventions among the, four governments, to investigate frontier violations and complaints regarding conditions along the border, to supervise the camps of political refugees, and to promote the transfer of national minorities. What are the causes oj conflicts on the Greek Question? Russia and Poland object to the findings of the eight members of the Balkan Commission. Both countries have submitted their own findings and conclusions. Russia makes the following charges: ( 1) The witnesses selected by the Greek government came from the Fascist and criminal elements. (2) Many statements in support of the Greek case were falsified. (3) The Greek government has adopted drastic measures against persons who love Communism. (4) The disturbance in Greece is the result of persecutions and terrorism taken against democratically minded citizens and national minorities. The report of the Commission was bitterly debated. Senator Warren Austin introduced a resolution supporting the findings of the Commission and its recommendations. Andrei Gromyko, Russian delegate to the Security Council, introduced a resolution outlining the conclusions given above. He was op.posed to the formation of a frontier com* 135 mission in the Balkans because, according to Russia, this would mean the complication of troubles. The desire of the United States to create a frontier com· mission would mean, according to Gromyko, 0 the creation of a screen in order to hide foreign intervention by certain powers in Greek domestic affairs." Russia exercised her veto power three times in the Security Council to prevent any effective action on the Greek Question. The General Aaaembly in its second regular session has approved the creation of a "Balkan Watch Commission." Russia announced !ts intention to boycott the "Balkan Watch Commission." Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Explain why the creation of the Balkan Commission is very significant. 2. In what way do political refugees increase the internal difficulties in Greece? 3. Russia insists that the internal troubles in Greece are due to the weak character of the Greek government. Is this statement true? Why? 4. In what way are Yugoslavia, Albania and Bulgaria responsible for troubles in the northern part of Greece ? 6. Can you explain why these three cowitries are interested in northern. Greece? 6. Do you think there is truth in the statement made by a radio commentator that the three Communist neighbors of Greece would like to overthrow the legitimate government of Greece in the same way as the Communists did with the legitimate government of Hungary? Why? 7. Why is Russia opposed to the creation of a frontier commission to watch the Greek border? Is there truth in Russia's assertion that the creation of the frontier commission Would mean "the creation of a screen in order to hide foreign interference in the internal affairs of Greece"? Why? 136 * 8. Russia has used her veto power several times to preYent the Security Council from acting on the Greek Question. Why did she use the veto power? Russia tried hard but unsuccessfully to prevent the United States from having the Greek Question discussed in the General Assembly. Why did she try to prevent the problem from being discussed by the General Assembly? 9. In his speech before the second session of the General Assembly Secretary Marshall said: "It is a universally accepted principle of international law that for one nation to arm or otherwise assist rebellious forces against another government is a hostile and aggressive act. Not only h.is this principle been upheld in a number of famous cases in intemational law, but it has also found expression in intemational agreements. The majority members of the Security Council have recorded their support of this principle by their action on (on condemning the illegal assistance furnished by Yugoslavia, Albania, and Bulgaria to guerrilla forces against the Greek government) the Greek case. One permanent member of the Security Council, however, has three times vetoed the efforts of the Council to deal with the situation." Do you find any plausible reason why Russia should not be condemned for the misuse of the veto power? Why ? References 1. Text of Marshall's Speech to U. N. General Assembly, Special Release of the United States Information Service, No. 469, September 19, 1947. 2. "The Balkan Commission's Report," United Nations: Weekly Bulletin, Vol. III, No. l (July 1, 1947), ,pp. 17-27. 3. "Balkan Report Before Security Council," United Natiobs News, Vol. II, No. 8 (August, 1947), pp. 1-2. 4. "General Debate on the Balkan Report Concluded," United Nations: (Please tum lo page 160) Current Events Review, Nov • .1947 How is the New Japan Governed Today? Specific Objectivea: 1. To study the make-up of the new Japanese government 2. To understand the role of the new Japanese constitution 3. To get acquainted with the main trend of Japanese political life Japanese political life since the un· conditional surrender of Japan on September 2, 1945, has undergone radical change. A new constitution has been promulgated and recent elections were •held in accordance with the new constitution. How is the new Japan governed today? What are the outstanding characteristics of the new framework of the Japanese government? What is the main trend of . Japanese political life? New experience for the Japanese The Japanese had never enjoyed real. self-government before their uncondi_tional surrender. The only constitution they had was the Meiji Constitution of 1889 penionally drawn· by Prince Ito. Several individual rights were granted by- this constitution, but they were, however, never fully enjoyed by the people because Japan was dominated economically, politically, and socially by the aristocrats and militarists. The promulgation of the new Japanese constitution, on ·May 3, 1947, which laid the foundations of a democratic form of government, is a new experience for the Japanese people. What changea doea the new constitution provide? The new constitution of Japan did not originate from the Japanese people. It was not· framed by the representatives of the Japa!'ese. It was prepared Foreign Affairs by the staff of the SCAP (Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers) in Japan. It W8'!, however, discussed and approved by the Japanese Diet and promulgated by the Emperor. What are the important changes provided in the new constitution? First, with the new constitution, Japan becomes a eonstitutional monarchy in which the Emperor is a mere ftgurehead. Second, Japan renounces war and gives up her right as a sovereign nation to declare war. Third, the people, not the emperor, are the sovereign power. Fourth, a responsible cabinet is ~t up. Fifth, extensive civt1 liberties are guaranteed. What is the poaition of the Japaneae Emperor? Under the old Meiji constitution, given 57 years ago, the Emperor was held sacred and was worshipped. All soveroignty resided in him. Today, the Emperor is only a constitutional monarch. He is the "symbol of the state and of the unity of the people, deriving his position from the sovereign will of the people." The source of power now is the people and not the emperor. The Emperor has no power to initiate any legislation. He could not administer the state. He is given only the power to conduct formalities. He promulgates amendments to the constitution, laws, cabinet orders and treaties; he convokes the Diet; he diSsolves the House of Representatives and proclaims general elections; he receives 'foreign ambassadors and ministers; he awards honors; &lid he perfonne ceremonial functions. The Ji;mperor retains only some of his private property. The Diet provides for the expenses and salary of the emperor. * 137 How do the sovereign rights of the people prevail? Under the old Meiji constitution of 1889, state oSovereignty resided in the Emperor. Today, under the new constitution, the source of power is the people. The new constitution guarantees the sovereignty of the people. The Emperor derives his power from the will of the pe_ople. The Diet under the Meiji constitution was not a true lawmaking body because the House of Peers were composed of hand-picked group of nobles and industrialists who were subservient to the Emperor. Under the new ccmstitution, the members of the upper house, now called the House of Councilors, are directly elected by the people. Legislative power is now exclusively exercised Dy the Diet. The members of the cabinet and the prime minister are held responsible to the duly elected representatives of the people. Under the Meiji constitution the advisers and go-betweens who comprised the Imperial Household Ministry and the Emperor's Privy Council could seat and unseat prirhe ministers and members of the cabinet. Likewise, all local officials, from the governor to the village headman, were appointed. Tl'tese officials were responsible to their superiors and not to the people. Today, under the present constitution, mayors and governors are responsible to the peop~e who elect them. All local governors must abide by the laws passed by the Diet. What compose the new Diet? Under the Meiji constitution, the House of Peers or upper house, consisted of nobles and industrialists handpicked by the Emperor. The House of Representatives or lower house was elected by limited ·suffragec The old Diet was not a true lawmaking body. All statutes were introduced by a minister of state. The old Diet had no power to name ministers. It could not 138 * control the conduct 9f the ministers of state. The Emperor could dissolve the Diet at will. Under the new constitution, legislative power is exercised exclusively by the Diet. The House of Representatives is directly elected by the people. The members of the House of Councilors, which has replaced the House 'of Peers, are directly elected by the people. The House of Representatives is the supreme power. It could override even the House of ·councilors. A two-thirds majority vote by the House of Representatives on a second reading turns a bill into a laW in spite of t"he opposition by the House of ~ouncilors. The function of the House of Councilors is mainly "to serve as brake on a possible runaway lower house." How is execuiive power exercised? The Executive power is vested in the Cabinet. Under the old constitution the prime minister was all-powerful. Under the new constitution the prime minister· and all members of the cabinet ar~ chosen from among the members of the House of Representatives. The members of the cabinet are jointly responsible to the duly elected representatives of the people. All members of the cabinet are selected by· the prime minister. The appointments can all be rejected by the Diet's vote of "no confidence." It is provided by the constitution that any party with a clear majority in the Diet is given the power to name the premier or prime minister. If the Diet is divided and there is no maj otity party in power, two or more parties may te~m and form a coalition government. How does the weal government function? Under the old constitution all local officials were appointed. Even the Current Events Review, . Nov. 194 7 member.s of the police were appointed. These officials were responsible only to those who appointed them. The average citizen did not have any right against the decision of all local officials. Under the present constitution mayors and governors are elected by the people. The local assemblies are elected by the people. They abide by the laws passed by the Diet. How i.s judicial power exerci.sed? The judicial power is vested in a Supreme Court and in inferior courts esfablished by Jaw. Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the Cabinet, but all such appointments must be . "reviewed by the people" at the first election of the members of the House of Representatives. Judges of inferior courts are selected by the Cabinet from a list of persons nominated by the Supreme Court. How are civil rights protected? The old constitution granted certain individual rights to the people, but such rights were never fully enjoyed by the people because of the dominating power of the aristocrats and militarists. The present constitution protects the rights of the people by limiting• the power of those in authority. The rights provided for in the present constitution include equality under the law, free speech, free assembly, free worship, free press, free information media, free residence, free education, and public trial. The present constitution also proYides for equality of sexes. It unmistakably states that all persons "hat'e the 1ight to work." It fixes the standards of working conditions, wages, and hours of work, and guarantees the "rights of workers to organize and to bargain collectively." Foreign Affairs Renunciation of war The most radical innovation in the new constitution is the renunciation of war. ••war, as sovereign right of the nation, and the threat of use of force, is forever renounced a.s a means of settling disputes with other nations. The maintenance of land, sea and air for· ces, as well a3 other war potential, will never be authorized. The right of belligerency of the state will not be recog· nized." T~e commitment given in the constitution is unparalleled in the con· stitutions of modern nations. The new constitution also gives an unprecedented exMlple of making it a constitutional obligation to have only ?peaceful settlement of disputes with other nations. The new constitution states: " .... we have determined to rely for our security and survival upon the justice and good faith of the peaceloving peoples of the world." Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. In what way does the new constitution lay the framework of a democratic government for Japan? ~ . How is the sovereignty of the people assured in the new constitutfon? 3. Why ·must the Diet be strengthened to become useful? 4. What is the significance of the limitation of the powers of the Empe· ror? 5. Why should the legislative power be exclusively exercised by the Diet? 6. Explain how the executive pow· er is exercised. 7. What is the significance of the selection of the prime minister. and the members of the cabinet from among the members of the House of Representa· tives? 8. How are the civil rights protect>ed? 9. Emperor Hirohito has renounced his "divinity." The constitution makes (Please turn to page 158) * 139 Why is the Ruhr a problem? Why does France Fear the Revival of the Ruhr? Specific objectives: 1. To appreciate the importance of the Ruhr in the reconstruction of European economy 2. To understand the problems arising· from the control of the Ruhr 3. To understand. why France fean~ the revival of the Ruhr One of the explosive spots of Europe is the Ruhr. The Ruhr is a German territory of about fifty square miles in the British zone of occupation. Why is the ~uhr significant in world politics? Why is its revival important for Europe? Why is its revival feared by France? Why is the Ruhr important? The Ruhr is considered one of the most important districts of the world for the following reasons: First, it is one of the four densely populated districts of the world; and it had, before the defeat of Germany in the last global Wal', the heaviest concentration of skilled labor and heavy industry of all the· densely populated districts_ of the world, itlcluding the Atlantic seaboard of the United States, Honshu and Kyushu, the English Midlands, and the area comprising Belgium, northeastern France, and Luxembourg. Second, the Ruhr has a vast store of mineral wealth. Its coal deposits are unsu.rp.3.ssed in richness. Third, the Ruhr was the main coal supplier of western and southern Europe before.the second World War. Fourth, the Ruhr is the world's second largest producer of iron and steel. How did Germany make use of the Ruhr? The defeat of Germany in World War 140 * I did not destroy the potential usefulness of the Ruhr. After the war, Germany turned all the arms-and-munitionsproducing plants of the Ruhr into goodsproducing factories in order to pay off her reparations payments. America extended loans to Germany in 1925 to speed up the modernization of the industries of the Ruhr. In 1926, the British coal strike helped increase further Ru'hr's coal output and export. And when Adolf Hitler launched his rearmament program, the industries of the Ruhr were forced to work at their hjghest degree of efficiency. Germany built her war machinery and .!'>trengthened her economy out of the riches of the coal mines of the Ruhr. Before ':V orld War II, Germany produced 180 million tons of coal. One hundred twenty-seven million of these were produced from the Ruhr Basin. During the same period, Ruhr produced 16 million tons of pig iron and 13 million tons of steel. During the same period Gel'many was able to establish in the Ruhr Basin numerous diversified chemical labpratories and factories essential to the German industries. German scientists produced out of coal such things as solvents, dyestuffs, pharmaceuticals, explosives, a:nd highoctane fuel. The works of these German scientists had made Germany technologically supreme long before Germany secured mi1 itary leadership. Various proposals on what to do with the Ruhr The Ruhr is aptly called the "Key to Europe's future/' because the different countries of Europe greatly need coal Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 and steel which only the Ruhr could sufficiently supply. This is the reason that, although Germany has been defeated, the treaty makers of Europe have to give the Ruhr -special consideration. What are these considerations? First, the Ruhr remains Europe's best industrial asset. Second, the recuperative powers of the Ruhr are immense. Third, the big pool of skilled labor has remained in the Ruhr. Skilled labor is indispensable in the production of neces$ary coal and steel for the rehabilitation of Europe. Immediately after the defeat of Ger· many, various Proposals were made on what should be done with the Ruhr. In fact this is the question that has great!~ perplexed the leaders of the British, American, and French forces of occupation in Germany. These leader.s have the following views: 1. They admit that the Ruhr must continue to prOduce coal because the devastated countries of Europe badly need coal and steel. Before the second World War, the Ruhr produced 440,000 tons of coal daily for the factories of Germany and other countries of Europe. Today the Ruhr cqal mines yield only 220,000 tons. England cannot supply the present demand for coal. In fact, England is having a critical coal shortage. 2. They also believe, however, that Germany must be prevented from using the Ruhr mines in building another war-making potential. It has been proposed that the clan of steel and coal barons and industrial combines must be eliminated from the ownership and management of the Ruhr industries; it was these clans that helped the Kaiser and Hitler rise to power. 3. The United States proposed that the Ruhr mines be operated by the Germans during the occupation under close Anglo-American supervision. The British believe that the Ruhr mines should be socialized. Foreign Affairs 4. Some leaders proposed that the Ruhr be severed from Germany and organized as a Ruhr-Rhennish state under the Dutch, Belgian, and French leadership. The United States, however, considers the severance of the Ruhr from Germany as impractical. French proposals /or the Ruh1· The official French view on the Ruhr was presented by Foreign Minister Georges Bidault on January 17, 1946, in the National Constituent Assembly. He said: 'The security of Europe and the world ,requires that Germany be deprived definitely of the war potential represented by the resources and raw materials of the Rhine-Westphalian region, and that the Rhine districts shall' never again be able to serve as a zone of passage, arsenal and base for invasion. As for the Ruhr, Europe's immense treasu~e house, consisting of coal mines and the factories associated with them, employing in normal times five million workers, the French government considers that, in conformity with the general interest of humanity, it must be treated both politically and economically.,, According to the French view, the Germans should not be given freedohi to dispose of the coal resources of the Ruhr. An internationalized Ruhr could help much in making Germany stable. The Ruhr could sell to Germany coal, steel, metallurgical products, and tex~ tiles. And the Ruhr could buy from Germany foodstuffs, iron, ore, wooden pit props and artificial fibers. It is believed that the balance of payments would be in favor of the Ruhr, and the French suggest that the said profits from the Ruhr mines and industries should be used to pay the German foreign debts. What i.s the present problem of France? Europe is now divided into two blocs as a result of the refusal of nine nations • 141 including Russia to cooperate with the countries of Western Europe in .. the execution of the Marshall Plan for the economic recovery of Europe. The United States and Britain believe that the Ruhr steel mills should be made productive to help Germany pay for the coat of American and British occupation, but the French believe that the Ruhr coal and steel mills are a standing menace to the security of France and the peace of Europe. France's paramount problem, therefore, is how to remove this menace. The solution of this problem will determine the future role of France in Europe. France has accepted the Marshall Plan for Europe. The United States and Britain on the one hand want to increase the industrial output of Germany'& coal to ,hasten the economic recovery of Europe; but France, on the other hand, fears the revival of a powerful Germany. The problem that faces the three leading powers of Europe is: How could the economic recovery of Europe be brought about th1·ough the increase of Germany's industrial output without endangering the . sec;urity of France and the peace of Europe? What must be done to solve this problem? This problem will have to be decided soon by these three countries. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Why is the revival of the Ruhr important for Europe? 2. How did the resources of the Ruhr help Germany build her industrial and warmaking potential? 3. Why should Germany be prevented from making use of the Ruhr in building another war machine? 4. The British want that the Ruhr be owned by the public. In his speech ih the House of Commons, Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin said: "Who Is going to have these industries (Ruhr industries) if the people do not? Are they going back to the syndicates 01· the Krupps?" Why does England want 142 * the socialization of the coal mines of the Ruhr? 5. The United States wants the Germam to operate the mines and industries of the Ruhr under the cloae supervision of an Anglo-American commission. What do you think are the reasons of the United States? · 6. Do you favor the separation of the Ruhr from Germany? Why? 7. Do you favor the internationalization of the Ruhr? Why? 8. What is the problem of the three power<1 in. the disposition of the Ruhr? Do you agree with the French in their view that the Germans should not be given freedom to dispose of the coal mines of the Ruhr? Why? 9. Do you think there is a political motiVe in the conflict over the disposi· tion of the Ruhr? If the Ruhr is internationalized, would you favor giving the Russians an equal vote on the -manage-ment of the Ruhr? Why? 10. Why does France fear the revival of the Ruhr under the German management? References 1. Bidault, Georges.-"Agreement on Germany: Key to World . Peace." Foreign Affaws, Vol. 24, No. 4 (July, 1946). pp. 571-578. 2. Ganem, Andre.-°France, the Ruhr, and the Rhineland," The Rotarian Vol. LXIX, No. 1 (J.uly, 1946), pp. 14-17. 3. Hellin, F. P. and Wohl, Paul."The Ruhr: Key to Europe's Future," Harper's Magazine, Vol. 189, No. 1131 (August, 1946), pp. 232-236. 4. James, Edwin L.-"FrenCh Fear of Reich Enters Marshall Plan," Th• New York Times, July 20, 1947, p. E3. 5~ Schoenburn, David.-"The French and the Ruhr," New Republic, Vol. 117, No. 5 (August ·4, 1947), p. 7. 6. "U. S., U. K. Agree on German Management of Ruhr Mines," Special Release No. 419, Sept. 12, 1947, USIS. Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 Has the "veto power" hamstrung the U.N.? Has the Veto Power been Abused and Misused by the Big Powers? Specific objectives: I. To know what the 0 veto" is 2. To understand the use of the "veto" 3. To know the significance of the "veto" 4. To get acquainted with the history of the "veto" World leaders, radio commentators, editorial writers, newspaper columnists, and many of the delegates to the second regular session of the General Assembly of the United Nations launched. severe attacks on the abuse and misuse of the "veto." What is the history of the "veto" now in practice in the Security Council? Has it been abused and misused? What is the latest world opinion on the "veto"? What is the "veto"? The "veto" is a voting procedure or formula granted to the Big Five powers, the permanent members of the Security Council-the United States, Britain, Russia, France, and China. The Charter of the United Nations provides that in deciding substantive or major issues a majority vote of seven out of the eleven members of the Security. Council is required. But of the seven," five must be the votes of all the Big Five. If one of the Big Five votes "No" on a substanti-ve or major question, aside from routine or procedural, no action can be taken. This is called "enforced unanimity" or the big.power "veto." What is the use o/the "veto"? The Big Five "veto" 1 power exists in the Security Council. Before the United World Affairs Nations Conference on International Organization was held in San Francisco, California, from April 25 to June 26, 1945, the Big Five agreed in the belief that no internS:tional dispute could become world-wide or global unless the Big Five are split into two opposing sides. It was because of this theory that the Big Five adopted the procedure of having first a unanimous agreem.ent among themselves before allowing the United Nations to apply any collective force. What is the main idea behind this agreement? It was believed that the military and industrial might of the Big Five could keep the peace of the world, and it W&S presumed that all the members of the Big Five want peace. Because of this presumption, the Big Five believed that the "veto" would force the members to work hard to find a solution that would be acceptable to all. What is the use of the "veto" in practice? Since the creation of the Security Council, the "veto" power has been used 22 times by Russia, and twice by France. France fir.st used it when she joined Russia in a veto on the Franco question and again when she vetoed the formation of a United Nations Commission to supervise the Security Council cease fire order in Indonesia. Russia used the veto under the following circumstances: Veto No. 1 was used by Russia when a resolution was presented in the Security Council that France and Britain should withdraw their troops from Syria and Lebanon. Russia insisted that the troops be ordered out. * 143 Vetoes No. 2, a; 4 and 5 were used by Russia when the members of the Security Council proposed that the Spanish question be removed from the agenda of the Security Council and be placed before the General Assembly. Russia insisted that Franco be declared a menace to world peace. Vetoe; No. 6, 7 and 8 were used by Russia in blocking the applications for membership of Transjordan, Ireland, and Iceland to the United Nations. Russia argued that Transjordan was not an independent nation and that Ireland and Iceland did not give aid to the Allies during World War II. The ap· plieations of these countries received the majority vote of the 11-member Security Council, but were vetoed by Russia. Veto No. 9 was used by Russia in Sep· tember, 1946, against the resolution presented by the United States proposing the· creation of an on-the-spot commission to investigate border incidents along the northern frontier of Greece. But in December, 1946, after Greece had filed a formal complaint that guerrilla activities in her northern frontiers were en<langering the peace and integrity of peace, Russia voted in favor of the creation of a commission to investigate the border incidents in Greece. Veto No. 10 was used by Russia in vetoing a British resolution charging that Albania was responsible for the laying of mines in the Corfu Channel which damaged three British ships and which caused the death of 44 sailors and injury of 42. The Corfu Channel incident has been referred to the International Court of Justice for decision. Veto No. 11 was used by Russia against the resolution calling for a Balkan Commission to investigate the Greek Question. The Balkan Commlaelon, created in December, 1946, to make an on-the-spot Inquiry, reported that the Greek complaint accusing her northern neighbors of aiding the guerrillas were founded. This veto was "the greateat 144 * blot on the prestige of the United Nations," because the Hussian veto over .. ruled the will of the majority to promote peace by creating a Balkan Commission that would keep watch on the northern frontier of Greece in order to prevent further bloodshed. Vetoes No. 12, 13 and 14 were used by Russia against the reconsid~ration by the Security Council of the applica· tions of Transjordan, Ireland, and Portugal for membership to the United Nations. Russia for the second time was the only one which voted against the admission of these countries into the United Nations. Vetoes No. 15 and 16 were used by Russia against the resolution presented by the United States, placing the blame on Albania, Yugoslavia, and Bulgaria for the disorders in northern Greece. The resolution was presented during the second discussion of the Balkan Question on August 19, 1947. The resolution called upon these three nations to cooperate with the Greek government in restoring peace along their frontiers. This resolution was vetoed by Russia. After the resolution was vetoed, Aus· tralia presented another resolution placing no blame on , any country for the disorders in Greece. The four coun~ tries were, however, asked to stop all hostile acts and to resume normal rela~ tions. This resolution was also vetoed by Russia. Vetoes No. 17 and 18 were used by Russia against the application of Italy and Austria for membership to the United Nations. Russia argued that she had not ratified the peace treaty with Italy and that no peace treaty had yet been concluded with Austria. Vetoes No. 19 and 20 were used by Russia on September 16, 1947, against the American proposal to ask the General Assembly for its recommendation on the Balkan question. The resolution was approved by nine votes in favor of the United States. Russia and Poland voted againat it. Finally, as the last Current Events Review, Nov . .1947 resort, Andrei Gromyko vetoed the resolution. Andrei Gromyko, serving as president of the Security Council ruled that the negative vote of Russia constituted a veto and the resolution was killed. The Security Council then voted 8 to 2, the Soviet Union and Poland opposing and Syria abstaining, that the United States resolution was procedwral rather than substantiv'e and that consequently "the "veto" did not -apply. Gromyko then cited the agreement among the Big Five made at San Francisco that unanimity among the Big Five was necessary in determining whether a matter was procedural or substantive. Colonel William Hodgson of Australia protested that the Big Five accord at San Francisco requiring unanimity among the major powers on whether a matter was substantive or not was never incorporated in the Charter of the United Nations and therefore was not binding on the other members of the United Nations. Gromyko accepted this point. The United States then presented another resolution dropping the Greek question from the agenda of the Security Council. Gromyko spoke in opposition to this resolution, contending . this time that the Greek Question was substantive. He did not, however, challenge the stand taken by the United States that . the resolution was procedural. After several hours of debate, the resolution was approved by a vote of 9 to 2, with the Soviet Union and Poland abstaining. The Russian abstention paved the way for the General Assembly. to consider the Greek Question and to take action on it. Vetoes No. 21 and 22 were used by Russia In vetoing the application of Italy and Finland for membership. Italy's application received 9 affirmative votes and Finland's received 9 in her favor and 2 agalnat. World Affairs What is the reaction to the use o/ the "t111to" l ' Is the "veto" being used in accordance with the spirit behind the agreement of the Big Five? This is the question being asked by internationally minded students today. The reasons for the uses of the "veto" by Russia have been given for our readers to judge. The world~wide reaction to the use of the "veto" described below may give us -a clear idea on the soundness of the use of the "veto". During the first sessi~n of the General Assembly in 1946, the "veto" was severely attacked. In 1946 the "veto" was used by Russia against a heavy majority vote in the Security. Council. The majority vote in the Security Council opposed Gromyko's ~ontention that Franco is a menace to the peace of the world. In 1946 Col. W. R. Hodgson of Australia said that the Security Council had been discredited. in the eyes of the world becaus& the "veto" had been irreSponsibly used by Russia. In the same year, Prime Minister 1Clement Attlee condemned the frequent uae of the "veto". He said: '4We n,ever conceive of the veto as a decree to be used whenever a particular power is not in full agreement with the other, yet that is what happened." The veto used by Russia in connection with the United States resolution calling for the creatfon of a. Balkan Commission to watch the border of Greece was condemned by various leaders. Herschel Johnson, l/ nited States deputy representative, denounced the Russian veto as "a grave challenge to the prestige of the United Nations as a guardi~n of the peace." He ~aid that although he did not dispute the right of Gromyko to use the 14 veto", he felt that that right was bein,g ,;abused" in a manner .not in· tended under the agreement among the Big Five. In his speech before the se<>ond regular session of the General As* 145 sembly on September 17, 194 7, Secre· tary of State George C. Marshall di•· cussed the "abuse" of the "veto". He said: "The abuse of the right of unanimity has prevented the Security , Council from flllfilling its true functions. This has been especially true in cases arising under Chapter VI and in the admission of new members. The United States would be willing to accept, by whatever means m8.y, be appropriate, the elimination of the unanimity requirement with respect to matters arising under Chapter VI of the charter, and such matters as applications for membership." Russia, through its representatives, has shown that it will continue to stand against any step for the disruption of the unanimity of the Big· Powers. Andrei Vyshinsky, Soviet Deputy Foreign Minister, answering the speech of Secretary of State George C. Marshall, said that the Soviet Union feels it its duty to fight resolutely against any attempt to •hake this principle (the veto power) no matter under what motives these attempts are made. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Do you believe that the effectiveness of the United Nations depend upon the cooperation of the Big Powers alone? Why? 2. Oscar Lange, the Polish delegate to the United Nations once said that the unity of the United Nation• would be endangered if the machinery of the United Nations could be used by some great powers to form a coalition against another great power. But with the "veto" the formation of such a coalition is discouraged. Do you believe this contention? Why? 3. Examine the different uses of the "veto" by Russia. Do you think that the 11veto" has been abused and misused? Why? 146 * 4. Do you agree with the United States that the "veto" ought to be limited in its use? Why? Can you give an example on how it may be limited? (Go ·over the uses of the "veto" and cite an example.) 5. The General Assembly in its ses· sion last year recommended that restraint must be used in the exercise of the "veto". Do you think this recommendation was adhered to by Russia? 6. The United States proposed a plan to eliminate the veto on all matters except on those that are directly concerned in the control of actual threats to peace or in the stopping of definite breaches of the peace. Do you approve of this plan? Why? 7. Ambassador Carlos P. Romulo says that the 11veto" should be abolished because it is inconsistent with the. principle of sovereign equality. It is undemocratic because it permits one of the 11 members of the Security Counci)I. to outvote the 10 members on substantive matters. It is obvious that it may be abused. Do you agree with him in this statement? Why? 8. What do you think is the moral effect of the abuse of the "veto"? 9. Are you in favor of the abolition of the "veto"? Why? 10. Can there be a United Nations . without a "veto"? Why? References 1. "The United Nations," Tips, Vol. 3, No. 18, pp. 137-144. 2. °'Text of Marshall Speech to U. N. General Assembly," Special Release No. 459 (September 19, 1947) of the USIS. 3. Dolivet, Louis.-The United Nations, (1946), pp. 63-55. 4. u Security Council's Discu.ssion of Balkan Report," Weekly Bulletin: United Nations, Vol. III, No. 3 (July 16, 1947)' pp. 86-90. Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 Opinions on World Problem.11 Why are the Obstructive Results of the Veto Significant? (This section on press opinions on current international problems is presented every month in order to provide materials for class discussion in current events. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of- the Current Events Review.) Editorials and columns in the United States papers have continued to express deep concern over the "veto" question in the United Nations Security Council. The recent Soviet vetoes of the Balkan and membership questions, particularly, have brought about a new round of comments. The "veto" problem has even been linked by most critics with th~ effectiveness of the entire United Nations organization itself, and the present comments on the "veto,, question strongly emphasize the necessity of solving this question in order to' preserve the maximut.il_ strength of the United Nations. Several newspapers have recalled the frequent use of the "veto" by Russia, and have analyzed every use of it to determine both its necessity as well as its obstructiveness. They all have descried the danger of its misuse to world peace. The obstructive aspect of the veto is dangerous The New York Herald Tribune like other papers, discussed the obstructive effects of the "veto," particularly those shown by the Russian veto of the United States resolution on the Greek Question. The editorial of the Tribune said that the veto of the formal request of the United States to place the "threats to political independence and territorial inWorld Affairs tegrity of Greece," upon the agenda of the General Assembly might prove to be of decisive consequence, The editorial pointed out that, although the Assembly recommendation has no legal force, an over\vhelming vote tfiay endow the Assembly with a moral or common law power beyond what it holds today, and confront Russia with a unew kind of United Nations." Is the "veto" the exclusive property of Russia? The Kansas City Star asks: "Is the 'veto' the exclusive property of Russia?" In answer to this question, the City Star says: "The Soviet delegate on the Council not only has exercised the veto with such lavish hand as virtually to make it an exclusive property of his own country, but has employed it generally for purposes never envisaged by most of the other nations which drafted the charter. At nearly every tum in the last two years, the Security Council has been prevented from adopting the simplest measures to deal with the incipient threat to international peace-and uniformly the objection has come from one source." Does the "veto" destroy thf' sovereignty of nations? The question as to whether the "veto" destroys the sovereignty of nations has been raised by the Memphis Commercial Appeal. It said: "The veto power was included in the United Nations charter for protecting the sovereignty of nations against majority domination. It has been used by Russia to destroy the sovereignty of nations and to thwart the very peaee * 147 it was intended to help preserve. This is the same power which Russia insists she must retain before she will agree to any proposal for international control of atomic energy and weapons, and the world knows why. She would use it in that field as she has used it on other constructive matters as a 'vicious instrument' not only to prevent the prevailing of democratic will but eventually as a device through which she would destroy democracy." Does the "veto" threaten the e%utence of the United Nations? The Philadelphia Inquirer believes that the -uveto" threatens the existence of the United Nations. It says: "Such a shocking misuse of the Big Power veto by Communist Russia unquestionably threatens not merely the integrity but the existence of the U.nited Nations. The plain record of Russia's vetoes in the Security Council and Russia's determination to prevent international action to maintain peace in the Balkans staild as damning evidence of Moscow's threatening course. The major issue before the UN Assembly next month (Siptember) will not be the Balkans but the misuse of the veto." Study Helps Let the class exchange ideas and opinions on the "veto" probl_em. Let them reread the article "HAS THE VETO POWER BEEN ABUSED AND MISUSED ? " Consider the following questions in your class diScussion. 1. What is the real intention of the Big Powers in agreeing on the' use of the 44 veto" ? Is the agreement by the Big Powers being carried out? Why ? 2. The General Assenibly has no power to make legal recommendation that can be forced on a country. It could not for instance force Russia to accept Its decision on the use of the "veto." !t can 141! * Why is the Division ••. (Continued from page 132) 4. "What Should be Our Policy for Aiding Europe Now'!" Town Meeting, Vol. 13, No. 14 (July 13, 1947), pp. 1-23. 5. "U. S. Plans for Co-ordinated Aid for Europe," WorJd Report, Vol. 2, No. 25 (June 24, 1947), pp. 5-7. 6. "The Marshall Plan," The Nation, Vol. 164, Ne. 25 (June 21, 1947), pp. 72-73. 7. Poulos, Constantine. "The Eastern Bloc," The Nation, Vol. 165, No. 3 (July 19, 1947), pp. 65-66. 8. "Europe Looks at the Marshall Plan," New Republic, Vol. 117, No. 2 (July 14, 1947), pp. 10-11. 9. '4The Molotov Plan," America, Vol. LXXVII, No. 17 (July 26, 1947), pp. 454-455. only make recommendation but its reco'mmendation is not binding. There is, however, one thing not to be lost sight of. The General Assembly has been aptly called the "World's Town Meeting" where every natior{ can air its grievances. As such, it can form public opinion the force of which can condemn Russia for the misuse of the "veto." Do you think the United States was right in placing the "veto" question before the General Asembly? Why? Do you think this is the most desirable thing to do? 3. Examine the record of Russia's use of the "veto." Do you agree with the City Star that Russia has "misused" it? Why? 4. Is it just for the Memphis Commercial Appeal to say that the use of the "veto" by Russia is likened to a "vicious instrument"? Why? 5. In what way do you think does the "misuse0 and "abuse" of the veto t.hreat~ en the existence of the United Nations? Current Events Review, Nov . .1947 Significant World News Roundup JAPAN MacArthur Hopes for Self· Sufficient Japan In a recent statement issued by Gen. MacArthur, hope had .been expressed that the peace treaty to be soon discussed would enable Japan to become self-sustaining. The General said that it is essential ihat the peace treaty be approached with tolerance and a just atmosphere to insure that the defeated nation has an opportunity to become selfsustaining rather than reduced to a condition of mendicancy. What is the significance of the newS? 11 A post-treaty Japan should not become a burden upon the economy of any other country," said Gen. MacArthur.' The concept that Japan should be held down with a hard treaty is false. What does history testify? "History shows that: ·democracy must spring from hardships and struggle and toil to flourish naturally in the hearts 'of men who cherish individual freedom and dignity. A spiritual commodity, it is neither for purchase nor for sale." Japan today, according to the General, is one <-f the few places in the world where there is minimum of fear, confusion, and unrest. This is the main reason why a just treaty should be given to Japan. GERMANY Soviet Complaint on German Industry Rejected The United States rejected the Soviet Union's complaint against the recent talks on industry agreement among the United States, Britain, and France. The talks resulted in an agreement between the United States and Britain on a new International News level of German industry for their zones of occupation in Germany. The goviet government declared that the discussion of the new level of German industry affects Germany as a whole and consequently decisions on such matter can be taken only with the agreement of the Four Powers occupying Germany. What is the significance of the news? The rejection· ·of the Soviet Union's complaint has been justified by the United States. The United States government had sought persistently to reach agreements on matters affecting ,Germany as a whole and to implement the provisions of the Berlin Agreement or Potsdam Agreement that Germany should be treated as a single economic unit. The refusal of Russia to implement the Potsdam Agreement forced the United States and British governments to conduct a tripartite talk with France on the level of German industry. ''The United States," said Acting Secretary of State Robert A. Lo.vett, "is unable to accept the thesis that nothing can be done to alleviate the financial burden of the United States or to develop within the framework of the Berlin Agreement the contribution of the western zone of Germany to the economic reconstruction of Europe until the consent of the Soviet government has been obtained." UNITED STA TES United States to Share Radioisotopes for Research President Harry S. Truman has recently announced that the Uriited States will make radioisotopes for medical and biological research available io users in other nations. In his message to the • Fourth International Cancer Research Congress, President Truman 9aid that he • 149 was pleased to announce that the progress in the production of radioisotopes by the United States Atomic Energy Commission permits limited .:Ustribution of radioisotopes to qualified research workers in othsr countries, principally for medical and biological research. What is the significance of the news? Radioisotopes are considered the most important research tool since the invention of the microscope. The decision of the United States to share radioisotopes with other nations has been acclaimed as a great forward step towards international control and prevention of cancer. This is true because radioisotopes cannot be had elsewhere except in the United States. This decision would enable competent scientists in other countries to make use of the best research tool for the alleviation of-human sufferings. KOREA South Koreans Strengthen Interim Democracy The people of South Korea strengthene<i their interim democratic government · ltllder American tutelage. Their legislative assembly is at present working on measures to broaden· general franchise. To make democracy functional, the Koreans have established a national police board, adopted ~n orientation program to adapt policemen to democratic police practices, have formed a national refugee board, and have launched extensive educational reforms, such as the appointment of adult education officials. in each town or village, And to _protect all that they have acquired under Am~,rican tutelage, the Korean legislative assembly is working out foolproof measures for tracking down Japanese collaborators. What is. the significance of the news? The enthusiastic and earne11t response of the Koreans to the occupation policies 150 * of the United States, which aim to prepare the people for a democrat1c way of life, shows that, given an opportunity, any ·people would always choose a government which grants or guarantees civil liberties. The preparation of a general franchise law significantly points towards the kind of constitution Koreans will frame as soon as they gain their independence. It also assures the Koreans and the democracies of ~ sure force that could effectively combat the spread of communism. INDO-CHINA French Offer is Rejected The French government has offered the Vietnamese home rule within the French Union. The home rule offer reserves for the French, however, the rights to bases and standing annies, and the control of foreign affairs. The offer does not specify the extent of territory to be controlled by Viet Nam. What is the significance of the news? The new French offer is intended to break the Indo-China stalemate. The war which started last year has failed to settle the issues involved. The Vietnamese do not consider the French offer a great concession for it leaves much power to the French and worse it leaves the definition of boundaries of Vfet Nam territory for further negotiations. The uncertainty and indefiniteness of the French offer has been interpreted as a reiteration of the French stand on colonial dependence. The offer is equivalent to native participation in the federal union controlled by the French. The Vietnamese, therefore, still continue to demand complete freedo.m. Vietnamese leaders see in the offer a design to perpetuate French colonial control. INDONESIA Peace and Order is Needed Hubert.us J. van Mook, acting gover· nor general of the Netherlands East InCurrent Events Review, Nov • .1947 dies, said at a press conference that po form of independent government cotfid exist i~ Indonesia until armed groups responsible for the disturbances were eliminated. Van Mook said that.the aim of the Dutch government and Republican government leaders of Indonesia is to set up a "sovereign state· organized as the United States." It is hoped that a reasonably sound nation can be formed, but before this could be accomplished, he indicated, certain elem~nts must be put down. The manner of i!uppressing these elements rests with the police action of the Dutch armed forces. The Security Council has not helped matters. It has caused delay. What is the significance of the news? The Indonesian situation as explained by Van Mook brings to light the necessity of the restoration of order and peace. Armed groups are responsible for disorder. Even the formation of political parties could not be canied out peacefully, because some scattered or· ganized groups are still imbued with the Nipponese philosophy. The philosophy and conduct of these groups are injurious to_ the establishment of a sovereign state. These groups do not seem to realize that the progressive projects contemplated by both Dutch 3nd Indonesian governments cannot be effected unless peace and order is first restored. "Other groups" said Van Mook, "are active with their usual o-utside influence." He referred to the subversive elements who feel they would profit by "selling out the Republic." BRITAIN The British Fight the "Second Battle of Britain" In 1940, Britain fought heroically and successfully the First Battle of Britain against the German de~ign to subdue her by constant bombing. Today she is fighting another Battle of Britain. She is fighting to prevent an "econoplic colInternational News lapse.11 Britain is actually importing more goods th1'n what she is selling abroad. She is importing more goods than she can afford "to pay. 'foday she is in ·danger of running short in foreign exchange, particularly dollars. She is faced by the problem of balancing her imports with her exports. Whar is the significance of the news? Several things have taken place in Britain. First, her industries have failed to revive as expected. .Second, the coal producers do not produce the coal she needs. Third, the purchasing power of the 3,075,000,000 , dollar loan can buy only about 40% of the goods she needs from the United States. The loan would have been sufficient had it not been for the rise of the prices of the goods in the United States. Fourth, dollar shortage is being felt by Britain because America exports to her over $19.6 billion while America imports from Britain only $7.6 billion. Fifth, Britain's expenditures for her 500,000 forces abroad have caused serious strain on her treasury. These economic problems of Britain have headed into a crisis. To solve this "economic crisis" the Labor Government is· adopting an "austerity program." This program calls for- reduction of rations reduction of Imports, partial withdrawal of occupation troops abroad, increase in production, and the necessity for easing the loan agreement with the United States. LATIN AMERICA RIO Treaty Hope for tlw Entire World The most successful conference held in 1947 is the conference of 19 American republics held at Rio de Janeiro, from the late part of August to the early part of September. The conference was the fulfilment of the promise made at Chapultepec, Mexico, by 21 American re· publics to perpetuate the solidarity they had attained and shown against their common enemy-the Axis powers. * 151 The conference ended with the signing of the Inter-American Defense Treaty on September 6, 1947. The highlights of the treaty are: "The high contracting -parties agree that an armed attack by any state or states against an American state shall be considered as an attack against all the American states and consequently each one of the said contracting Parties undertakes to assis't in meeting the attack. "If the inviolability or the integrity of the te~ritory or the sovereignty or political independence of any American state should be affected by an aggression which is not an armed attack. . . or by any other fact or situation that might endanger the peace of America, the organ of consultation shall meet immediately in order to agree on the meas111·es which must be taken. . . for the common defense and for the maintenance of the peace and security of the continent. "For the purposes of this tt'eaty, the measures on which the otgan of consultation may agree will comprfae one or more' of the following: recall of chiefs of diplomatic missions, breaking of diplomdltic relations, breaking C'lf consular relations, complete or partial interruption of economic relations or of rail, sea, air, postal, telegraphic, telephonic, radiotelephonic, and radiotelegraphic communications, and the uSe of armed ~orce." What is the sign!ficance of the news? The RIO conference has proved that, wherever and whenevl!r nations are sincerely desirous of promoting t-he peace and well-being of the world, peace and mutual help among sovereign states could be established without frustrating delays and without much confusing and disturbing propaganda. The success of this conference should be a lesson to the United Nations. The conferen•'!e showed ho.w treaty agreements could he reached voluntarily. Each Ame1·ican republic diG its best to adjust its own position to 15Z * that of the others and out of respect for the opinion of the majority. In describing the spirit of the conference,., Secretary of State Marshall said, "No nation triumphed over any Jther, for this was not a contest betwaen nations but a 'get-together' among them.'' After ttte ratification of the treaty, Sen. Arthur H. Vandenberg, president pro-tempore of the U.S. Senate, also said: '11 sub.mit, my friends, chat such a 'regional arrangement'-faithfully refle~ting the purposes and the formula of the United Nations-is cheerful, encouraging and happy news in a cloudy, war-weary world which is groping, amidst constant and multiple alarms, to\vard t1Je hopes by which men live. It is good for us. It is geod tor all our 11eighbors. It is good for the ·world.'~ Study Helps 1. Why does MacArthur desire that a vostwar treaty with Japan should not be made a burden on Japan's economy? 2. What justifies the United States rejection of the Soviet prote1t on the three-pow~r conference on Germany? 3. What is the significance of President Truman's announcement that the United States will share radioisotopes with other countries? Do you think Russia should be allowed to s1'are? 4. There is a stalemate in the settle~ ment of the Korean problem between Russia and the United States. Rµssia proposes that both the United States and Russia withdraw their troops from Korea. Do you favor this proposal? Why? 5. Why is the new French offer of home rule to Viet Nam not acceptable? 6. Is the statement of Van Mook on the necessity of peace in Indonesia justified? Do you think that the commission created by the Unit<d Nations should look into this aspect of the Indonesian problem? Why? 7. If a country buys more than it sells, its balance of trade will be un(Pleuse turn to page 155) Current Events Review, Nov . .1947 The Philippines and the World-U.S •• PhUippine Relations Praised Miss Rosemary Finnegan, a Philippine-born. American woman, in a speech before the Rotary Club of Tampa, Florida, cited the United States and Philippine relations as a model for intema· tional understanding. Mis's Finn·egan, now a teacher of Spanish in the St. Petersburg High School, described the United States and Philippine relations since 1898 as the first and the best example in history of a large nation living side by side with a smaller nation without trespassing on the latter's rights. Despite the fact that the Philippines ·has tremendous riches, the United States ignored these assets and in 1r;ead she directed her policies towards the material and cultural improvement of the Filipino standard of living.· The United States did not go to the Philippines as a mjghty nation conquering .a. country for Its raw materials, but as :'riend· and willing to help, she added. Philippines Made Member of "World Food Council" The final plenary sessi 1n of the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization conference in Geneva re· cently created an 18-nation special council, popularly called the "World Food Council." The council is· composed of Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, D e n m a r k , Egypt, France, India, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Philippines, United Kingdom, United States, and Union of South Africa. The council is expected to •tudy the present food and agriculture situation International Affairs of the world for the ben9fit o.{ the starving peoples. Its duties include the examination of the proposed as well as the existing inter-governmental agricultural commodity arrangementlJ; the coordination of national and internatiqnal agriculiun... commodity pol~cies al9ng the lines of the FAO; the inv•stig'!tion of critical agricultural commodity sit11ations; the giving of advice on emergency measures; and the periodic review of agricultural situations and policies ocf all nations. Philippines Backs U.S. on Greece The Philippines gave full •upport to the United .states proposal for halting threats to the Independence •nd territorial integrity of Greece. The head of the Philippine delegation and oermanent delegate to the United Natio.ls, Carlos P. Romulo, told the political committee of the United Nations General Assembly that the United States proposal is warranted by all the facts established by the work of the Security Council's Balkan investigating commission. The United States proposed that the Assembly call upon Albania, Bulgaria, and Yugoslavia to cease and desist from giving further support to the guerrilla fighting against the Gr°'lJ< government and also that the Assembly establish a '!!pecial assembly committee to oversee the restoration of peace. to the Balkans. Doctor Ales Behler who spoke ahead of Romulo gave a detailed explanation of the position of the Yugoslav government. Behler argued that the Greek problem is not ·new. It began about 35 years ago. He contended that the postwar Greek regime was establiahed with * 153 the aid of the British and 'ohe ·~uislings, and that the postwar Greek election was unfair. He charged that the recent Greek governments had been formed in the United States embassy. Representative Herschel Jonnson of the United States replied briefly to the Yugoslav statement. He pointed out that the Yugoslav argument was the same sort of thing which the ';ecurity Council had heard for three mo •tbs. He argued that nine of the 11 members of the council had already vot.?d for the same kind of action which the United States was asking the General Assembly to take. Fornwr Manila Resident Solicits Aid Jar Philippines Former Manila resident Mrs. Rumilde Avery solicits aid in New York for .Manila's Filipino-American Assistance League, Inc., Mrs. A very went home to the United States two years ago in order both to solicit the aid and to give her two adopted Filipino boys American schooling. Feeling that Americans should be givfn the opportunity to aid Filipinos who fought closely with them during the war, Mrs. Avery sought advice from Sisters of the White Cross in Manila and from lllrs. Victoria Araneta, her former neighbor, who had helped fin· ance the assistance league ""d White Cross work. Mrs. Avery began seeking assistance for the league five weeks ago and has already received numerous contributions. Mrs. Avery emphasized that she was not' seeking charity, but assistance for people who had been left ift urgent need by the Japanese occupation. The goal of the league, Mrs. A very explained, was to help "little people get back on their feet," perhaps by supplying a needy farmer with a horse or water buffalo, and a fisherman with nets. Mrs. Avery revealed the league's plans to set up a children's village which would serve as a home for about 2,000 154 * war orphans and for orphans who have to leave the White Cross home at the age of seven. Philippines Shares Japanese Reparations The Philippines, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands will receive one-sixth of Japanese reparation payments in the form of tools, equipment, and machinery. China will receive the largest share, one-half of the interim reparations. According to the announcement made by the Allied occupation headquarters in Japan, 19,561 items of machine tools and metal-working equipment from Japanese government-owned arsenals are now available for interim reparations. Philippine Coconut Oil Allocated Jor RelieJ Agencies The International Emergency Food Council announced recently the alloca· tion of 5,000 tons of coconut oil to the Philippine government for di•tribution and sale during 194 7 to <ecognized privately-operated charitable organizations carrying out international relief programs for civilians. Under this plan, the Philippine government will make available to each world charitable organizatio., duly recognized by the Council not .nore than 1,000 tons of copra (in terms of oil content) within this year, 1947. The efforts of charitable organizations have been impeded by difficu1ty in getting supplies of scarce commodities. The recent allocation is intended to help these organizations procure o'il for their future distribution programs. Charitable organizations are asked to apply for their shares of this allocation to the Philippine government. Priorities Adopted to Hasten Rehabilitation The United States Philippine War Damage Commission announced recently Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 that it would give priority in I.he handling of private claims to schools, hospitals, public utilities, and basic industries which will provide employment in the Philippines. The decision ~o establish priorities is intended to hasten the rehabilitation of the Philippines. The priority categories are: private hospitals and private schoo13; public utilities, such as communication, transportation, gas, electric power and light; manufacturing and processing plants, such as sugar, oil mills, desic12ted coconut plants, cigar and cigarette factories; rice mills and other industries capable of providing employment. The Commission spokesman said that the purpose of giving priority to basic industries is to rehabilitate speedily such industries so as not only to increase supplies for domestic consumption, but also to increase exports. 'rhe speedy rehabilitation of basic industries is cal· culated to bring about the immediate restoration of the balance of trade for the Philippines and to absori> a good number of the unemployed. P.J .• Spain Treaty of Amity and General Relations Held Significant ,The Philippines and Spain concluded a treaty of amity and gene1•Jt.l ·relations on September 27, 194 7. The conclusion of the treaty recalls the thr~e centuries of cul tiJ.ral, educational, social, religious and political ties that once oound the two countries. The signing of the treaty is held significant for two reasons. First, the Philippines has decided to ostablish cordial relations with a former mother country against whom she nad risen in revolt. Second, the Philippines has con· eluded a diplomatic contract \\ith a na· tion that has not been recogniied by the United Nations. Questioil.s nave been International Affairs Significant World News •• (Continued from page 152) favorable. This is the situation in Eng· land. As a result," Britain is faced by a "dollar crisis." What measures has Britain adopted to prevent an economic collapse? 8. Why is the treaty signed by 19 American republics si~icant? Was the conclusion of this treaty in harmony with the basic aim of the United Nations-to promote world peace? Why? Go over the treaty and study whether the points agreed upon on the methods of settling disputes among the 19 American republics are truly a good example for the rest of the world. A leading American leader said that the treaty is a light for the entire world. Ex.plain what he means by such statement. raised here and abroad against the signing of the treaty. Many crltirs believe the Philippines acted contraey to the resolution approved by the United Nations which provides for the recall of ambassadors from Sp1.in. Russia, pri. ... marily, lately denounced the \.onclusion of the treaty. The Vice-President of the Philippines and concutrently Secretary of Foreign Affairs, however, argued that the resolution of the United Nations does not forbid "I.DY nation from making friends with other nations. The Manila Daily Bulletin rightfully concluded that "the Philippine government has established and implemented the policy of being as friendly as it can afford to be with all other nations. It is a good sound policy and the only common-sense one to follow for a young nation setting out to go places. U it had refused to exchange representatives with Spain after the latter sent her min· ister here, that would have been interpreted as an example of active unfriend· liness." * 155 Special Report on the Activities of die United Nations Successors to VNRRA The United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration ( UNRRA) ceased functioning on June 31, 1947. The only exception was the continuance of its activity in China which would probably continue until the end of 1947. The UNRRA, a relief organization of 48 member nations, was established in 1943 to handle the relief work of the Allied nations. Until tl-e close of its operations, the UNRRA had delivered over 3 billion dollars worth of supplies to 17 devastated countries. These supplies represented the largest peacetime shipping operation ever undertaken by one agency. The UNRRA also assisted in sending home seven million displaced persons, and gave care and maintenance to those who were not yet able or did not wish to retllrn. T1"a organizations that took over some of the activities of UNRRA are the World Health Organization'(WHO), the International Refugee Organization (IRO), and the International Children's Emergency Fund (ICEF). The health program of the UNRRA is being carried on by the WHO. This organization now undertakes a program combating tuberculosis in Greece and China; and is sending to Austria and Hungary a . "medical faculty on wheels," the first travelling teaching unit sponsored by the WHO, to promote international ex· change of medical and scientific knowledge. Tbe IRO is taking over the problem of refugees and displaced persons. About 900,000 persons are awaiting care and maintenance by the IRO. The ICEF will take care of about 20 million suffering children and mothers in both Europe and Asia. This agency will send 156 * immediate aid to the eleven cowitries which suffered the most dunng the last war: Albania, Austria, China, Czechoslovakia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, and Yugoslavia. International Protection of Human Rights Advanced . After two months of deliberation, the Drafting Committee of the Human Rights Commission succeeded in drafting significant articles for the advancement of the international protection of human rights. The articles 'lre divided into two drafts, and they will be presented to the Human Rights Commission of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations for consideration. One of the drafts contains suggested articles for incorporation in an international Declaration of lruman rights. The other contains articles to be in- , eluded in a Convention on human rights. What is the difference between a Convention and a Declaration? A Declaration is a statement of ultimate goals to be achieved and a statement of broad general principles. It would have moral value, but would not be legally binding. A Convention, on the other hand, is phrased more specifically and gives the delimitation of the human rights. An international Convention is a treaty. After its approval by the General Assembly, it would be sent to the Member States for their individual ratification. When ratified, it becomes morally and legally binding, but only among the states which. \1ave ratified it. Many authorities feel that both the Declaration and the Convention are complementary and indispensable. Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 Tangible Evidence of International Cooperation One unheralded contribution to international cooperation of a spedalized agency of the United Nations .is the recent manual issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization (!CAO). The information contained in the manual· covers valuable data on the facilities for navigation, communication, search and rescue, and meteorological services in the North Atlantic area. It also gives the details of the characteristics of land and water airports opened to international traffic through1 >Ut the area. The description of the airports is especially intended for foreign airmen to enable them to fly with safety over unfamiliar territory. Study Helps 1. Why is the issuance of the manual significant in international cooperation? 2. Do you think that similar manuals for the other navigable areas of the world should be prepared ? 3. What is the significance of the work done by the ICAO to the. Philippine 1 .\ir Lines (PAL)? 4. Can you think of possible reasons why Russia refused to join the !CAO? Secretary-Generar s Report The Annual Report of the SecretaryGeneral on the work of the United Nations was recently made public. The report summarizes the substantia! prpg· ress achieved during the past year. It comments on the growing tendency, on the part of Governments, to rely "on the processes of international organizations for the exploration and solution of problems of common concern." The report points out, however, that the world political situation has not improved, that the main peace treaties are still un· drafted and unsigned and that disagreements between the powers has, in a number of cases, delayed or frustrated the canying out of decisions. WQrld Affairs Study Helps 1. Why has there been no progress made in the drafting of peaca treaties? Recall some articles you have read in the previous four issues of the Current Events Revi~w and give your reasons. 2. What examples or evidences could you give to show that there is a tendency for nations to rely on international or· ganizations for the solution of their common problems? Significant Conclusion of th4? Draft Charter of the ITO Sometime this month the Conference on Trade and Employment of Havana, Cuba, will consider the Draft Charter prepared by the Preparatory Committee of the United, Nations Conference on Trade and Employment for the International Trade Organization. The draft charter contains provisions on purposes and objectives, employment and economic activity, economic development, commercial policy, restrictive business practices, inter-governmental commodity agreements, the structure of th•· international trade organization, settlement of differences, and interpretations of the general provisions. One of the .most significant featUre"s of the draft charter is the conclusion that world trade expansion depends upon, not only on the elimination of barriers erected either by governments or private interests, but equally upon the maintenance of high and stable levels of employment and production and upon the economic development of all countries, particularlY those that, as yet, are relatively undeveloped. Study Helps 1. One of the objectives for the formation of the Il\ternational Trllde Organization is to promote ·peace through economic cooperation. Do you think that this organization will help much in promoting peace ? Why? • 157 2. Trade barriers, like high tariff, can destroy the peace of the world How do trade barriers work against world peace? 3. Do you believe in the conclusion given above on world trade expansion? Cite an example to prove that the conclusion is true. U.N. Body Defines Arms Jurisdiction A committee of the UN Commission for Conventional Armaments 'ldopted an amended U.S. resolution de!ining 'the armaments falling within the scope of the conventional &rp1aments body as distinguished from armaments under the jurisdiction of the earlier-established UN Atomic Energy Commission 'The resolution was adopted by a 7-2 vote, with the Soviet Union and Poland opposing and tw0 members abstainilig. 'The resolution places all present and future weapons of mass destruction within the province of the Atomic Energy Commission. The definition of weapons of mass destruction includes the atomic bombs, the radioactive material' weapons, the lethal chemiral and biolo.gical weapons, and any other unknown weapon that may hue destructive potential comparable to that of the atomic bomb. All other weapons fall within the jurisdiction of the conventional armaments commission. The works of both the Conventional Armaments Commission and the Atomic Energy Commission are subject to review by the Security Council. Study Helps 1. Why is it important to define specifically the jurisdiction of the Atomic Energy Commission and the Conventional Armaments Commission ? 2. Look over the list of weapons assigned to the Atomic Energy Commission. What do you think is the reason for placing these weapons ~nder the Atomic Energy Commission? 158 * How is the New Japan .•• (Continued from page 139) him a mere figurehead. But the people continue to revere ·him. Do you think the emperor is an indispensable force in the making of a democratic Japan? Why? 10 . What is the significance of J apan 's renunciation of war? 11. The World Report states that few Japanese people understand the rights accorded by the new constitution. What could be done to make the Japanese understand their newly acquired v-fghts? 12. An article in the Foreign Policy Report states that a new type of leadership must be developed ·before the ·new constitution could1 succeed. Is the statement true? Why? References 1. Text of the new Japanese Constitution. 2. Occupation of Japan: Policy and ProgreBS, the Department of State, Publication 2671, Far Eastern Series 17, pp, 117-135. 3. Rosinger, Lawrence K, - "The Occupation of Japan," Foreign Policy Reports, Vol. XXIII, No. 5 (May 15, 1947) pp. 55-56; p. 60. 4. "The New Japan: Framework for Democratic Government," Tips, Vol. 3, No. 3 (May 26, 1947) pp. 22-24. 5. Maki, John M.-"Japan: Political Reconstruction," Far Eastern Survey, Vol. XVI, No. 7 (April 9, 1947) pp. 73-77. 6. Baldwin, Roger N, - "New Liberties in Old Japan," Survey Graphic, Vol. XXXVI, No. 8 (August, 1947) pp. 421-425. 7. Allen, Lafe, Franklin. - "J a pan's New Diet," Current History, Vol. 13, No, 72 (August, 1947) pp. 96-99. 8. Can you give reasons why Russia and Poland opposed the United States resolution,I Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 Science Marches On,.Ten War-Inspired Advances in Medicine and Surgery Ten most important advances in medicine and surgery during World War II were listed in theAmerican Weekly by Norman T. Kirk, war-time surgeon general, Medical Corps, United States Army. These 10 developments, according to Kirk, contributed to the low inridence of disease and success in saving life and restoring health. They were: 1. Advance in preventive medicineAmong immunizing agents, tetanus toxoid was listed as the most ~pectacular because it provides lasting immunity. Next to the toxoid in importance is the DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) which effectively kills all kinds of disease-carrying insects. 2. Advance in surgery-In the surgery of the nerves, a new substai\ce, known as ~antalum has been discovered and successfully used for the first time as wire and foil in the repair of nerve injuries and as plates for repairing skull defects. With the use of this material, much additional knowledge has been gained in the surgical treatment of severed nerves. In plastic surgery, great advances have been made. The modem methods could restore the usefulness of scarred and injured hands and in addition makes possible better cosmetic and functional results. 3. Developments in the use of blood, blood plasma, and blood derivatives. 4. Aviation medical research. 5. Knowledge of the use and limitations of chemotherapeutic agents such as sulfonamides and anti-malarial drugs. Chemotherapeutic agents are drugs used In the treatment of many diseases Modem Science and in the prevention and cure of surgical infections. 6. Development and use of antibiotics, such as penicillin and streptomycin. 7. Amputee program-Research has produced marked improvement in devices for the replacement of missing limbs. 8. Care of paraplegic patient. 9. Care of the blinded. 10. Artificial plastic. eye.-Before the ·war, only glass artificial eyeCJ were available. Artificial plastic eye has in many ways been found more satisfac· tory. Eye Clinic Straightens Crossed Eyes The eye clinic of the general hospital in Louisville straightens the cross-eyes of hundreds of children each year. Doctors have found new excellent ways of correcting cross.eyes. Doctors at the eye clinic mainhin that all the trouble, heartache and delin· quency among cross-eyed children can be prevented, if their eyes are straightened during infancy. The heist age for beginning treatment Is six months. Most croBB-eyes are due to the pulling of certain eye-muscles out of line at birth. U a cross·eye is not corrected early, the double vision caused by the cros!ed eye and the straight eye makes the child unconsciously stop using the cross.eye. If this condition continues beyond the age of seven, the cross·eye ultimately becomes blind from disuse. If the child is brought to the clinic before he is seven, his sight ran be • 159 restored and the cross-eye straightened. First, the eyes are tested and the amount of deviation measured. Doctors measure the deviation by holding light before the eyes. The light is refiected in the center of the good eye and· reflects off-center in the bad eye according to the amount of deviation. The child is then fitted with glasses that correct his vision, help relax the injured muscles and take the strrdn off the one good eye. The almost paralyzed musoles of the cross-eye are straightened with exercises. Exercises are iP.ven with prisms which force the child to pull his eye inward to see correctly. The strength of the prisms used is gradually increased until the muScles become strong anrl the eye's vision normal. Sodium Fluoride Prevents Tooth Decay The use of sodium !luoride td urevent the recurrence of tooth decay was reviewed at the recent dental convention in the United States. A series of tests in which the compound w&s sealed in more than 600 cavities with no ·m .. eff~ta, were shown. The teJ':s showed that the hardening of the dentine arrests decay. Experiment on Peanuts Peanut curing studies by .;cienti~ts at the ·Georgia experiment stat!ori have revealed that peanuts need not be cured on the vine. The dii;covery i.s important to the peanut growers becauc;e harvestiitg'; curing, and picking .of peanu~ by the old method require. a large amou.nt of hard labor. The new· method,· which includes the removal of the tops before digging the plants, has been found to increase the yield Snd improve its quality. Tests on Li9htnings In a chamber on top of the. Empire State Building In New York, tests intended to discover the true nature of llgbtnlng are being carried out by the 160 * Significance of the Greek ... ( Conlinued from page 136) Weekly Bulletin, Vol. III, No: 5 (July 29, 1945), pp. 169-175. 5. 0 Greece Fights for Peace," Current Events Review, Vol. II, No. 8 (February, 1947), pp. 11-12. 6. Hadsel Winifred N. "Will Security Council Act on Report of Balkan Commission?" Foreign Policy Bulletin, Vol. XXVI, No. 33 (May 30, 1947), pp. 3-4. 7. "Security Council and Chapter VII," United' Nations News, Vol. II, No. 9 (September, 1947), pp. 1-2. General Electric Company. The building is ideal for such tests· since the top of the Empire State Building ;s the only place in the world where there is thunderless lightning. It has been discovered that the lightning produced by the electricity from the earth. striking the clouds is silent, and that lightning produced by electricity from clouds striking the earth produces thunder. It is hoped that on the basis of. these tests, new equipment for protection against lightning can be designed. Brain Operation Cures Pain in Amputated Leg A successful operation in the brains which. relieves the sharp pain suffered ~y the patient after the amputation of the leg' has been reported by the Journal of the American Medical Associatiori'. The operatiop opens the cranium and locates a point on the brain which, if stimula~ electrically, produces reaction in the. leg. The incision is made in the cortex. Pain in the phantom leg disappears immediately after the incision is made. Partial paralysis and minor convulsions take place· during the first two weeks, but pain 'does not recur anymore. Gradually the paralysis and the convulsions disappear, too, and the pat.ient is totally relieved of the pain which, otherwise, may linger for a long time. -Special releases of the . United States Information Servfoe. Current Events Review, Nov. 1947 The Publisher !UD& :ma 5.3.3 P. Paterno, M a n 1 la Dear Sir1 November 14, 1947 Qu1apo I wiah to inform you that the magazine .A1!m !11!! hu been approved for general reading in the elemental')" grade& or the public 11choola. Attention ia invited to a lat indorsement, herein incloaed., or the Institute of National Language aated November 1, 1947. Ver, re•pecttully, Inol.i u stated Dl!!Oll lltpnblii: of the Fhilippiim; Department of Instruction OFFICE OF PRIVATE EDUCATION Manila . September 17, 1947 The MMilo Educational Enterprises Inc. 538 P. Paterno, Quiapo M • n i I• Gentlemen: I wish to thank you for sending me • complimentory copy of your mogazine "Afing Wiko." After going over the magazine, this Office finds it suitoble for generol reeding in the teoching of the Notionol Longuage in the elementary grades. As soon •• our library lists are issued in bulletin form, this magazine will be included. Very respectfully, (Sgd.) MANUEL L. CARREON Director of Private Education 1329 S/18 For School Children, Parents, TeachersAting Wika a monthly school magazine which contains abundant materials of instruction in the Filipino National language for Grades I to VI. Approved for General Reading in .the Elementary Grades of the Public Schools. Subscription: Complete - For Grades I-VI Reprint - For Grades 1-11 .......... . Reprint - For Grades 111-VI ........ . Subscribe to 688 P. · Paterno, Atiog Wika P7.50 a year .40 a copy .40 a copy Quiapo, Manila