Current Events Review

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Part of Current Events Review

Title: Current Events Review
Issue Date: Vol. III (No. 6) December 1947
Year: 1947
Language: English
Rights
extracted text: ional Bill of Human Rights'! • . ·1 ~ • ' e Where do the United' States and Russia Face Each Other? e What are Needed by Europe for Economic Recovel'.y? e What is the Future of Korea? e Why is Complete Peace being Delayed? Vol •. 111, No. · 6 December, 1947 30 centavos CUIRRENl EVENTS JREVU::.w /\ newsmagazine that completes and makes up-to-date the study of history and other social science subjects. DIOSDADO G. CAPINO Editor D. 11. MANLAPAZ Publisher NICOLAS ONGKINGKO Circulation Manager In this issuePOLICARPIO G. DANGALIO DOMINGO C. SERION Researchers VENANCIO NEBRIDA Circulation Representative Why is the New Communist International a Threat to World Peace? Page 161 Why is the World Drafting an International Bill of Human Rights? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16:l Where do the United States and Russia Face Each Other? . . . 166 What are Needed by Europe for Economic Recovery? 169 Why is a Declaration of Human Rights Important? 171 What is the Future of Korea? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172 Why is Complete Peace being Delayed? . . . . . . . 173 Significant World News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . li!O The Philippines and the World Science Marches On ................................... . Special Report on the Activities of the United Nations Published monthly except May and June by MANLAPAZ PUBLISHING CO. 123-125 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila Subscription: P3.00 a year, Pl.50 a semester, 30 centavos per copy. 185 183 190 When changing address give old as well as new address. Address all communications to the Current Events Review. Copyright, 1947 by D . .R. Manlapaz and D. G. Capino. All rights reserved. Entered as second-class mail matter January 9, 1947 at the Manila post-office. Report on World Politics Why is the New Communist International a Threat to World Peace? (This monthly section on press opinions on current international events is intended to provide materials for class exchange of views on the opinions of con· temporary writers. It is hoped that the instructors make it a point to teach the students how to evaluate these opinions. The opinions in this section are not necessarily those of the Curf'ent E'Vents Review.) Background of the news The world was surprised to hear on October 5, 1947, the announcement of the "rebirth" of the Communist lnternation .. al. This Third International is officially known as the Comintern. The First International w~ an association of all national socialist groups summoned by Karl Marx in 1864. It met every year until 1876. The Second Inte.'Jlational was an association. of all national Socialist groups and labor groups that first convened in 1889. It advocated social reforms peacefully carried out through parliamentary action. The Third International was convoked. on January 24, 1919. Thirty-two voting delegates came from Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, Bulgaria, Rumania, Hungary, Austria, Ger .. many, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. Other representatives. came from the United States, France, and lninor countries: Unlike the ·First and Second Intemational, the Third International advocated revolutionary international Communism. On May 22, 1943, the Comintern was dissolved in the interest of inter-Allied unity for the prosecution of the war against the Axis. The revival of the Comintern confirms the 'Opinion of competent international news anaWorld Problem lysts that the. Comintern was not really "abolished." The Moscow announcement of the "re-birth" of the Comintern was made to coincide with the session of the General Assembly. It brought consternation among the delegates who expected amity. among the members of the United Nations. It was revealed that sometime in Sep.. tember, 1947, the Third International held a secret meeting somewhere in Poland. Communist leaders from France, Italy, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Hun~ gary, Rurnania, Bulgaria, and Poland met, headed by Russian leaders Andrei A. Zhdanoff and Georgi M . .Malenkoff, The Rus3ian representatives are members of the Russian powerful Politburo, the controlling body of the Soviet government. The main purpose of the nine-nation conference is to organize the Communist forces in order to counteract United States imperialism and to wreck the Marshall Plan for the economic recovery of Europe. "Right wing socialists in Italy, Austria, Germany, France, and Britain" were condemned by the Comintern as "traitors" to the cause of anti-imperialism. The Conference decided to establish an °inforrnation bureau" (Comniform) at Belgrade to coordinate the activities of the nine nations. What is the significance of the revival of the Comintern? First, the revival of the Comintem mea113 a revival of the worldwide revcr lutionary Communism. Second, it is designed to defeat the Truman-Marshall projects for the recovery of Europ'3. * 161 Third, it openly declares war against Democracy. Fourth, Russia assumes leadership of the Communist movement to dominate the world. Fifth, it is a tactical move to organize Russian forces for a series of political activities in Eastern Europe and in the· socialist countries of Europe. Press comments on the revival o J the Comintern Worldwide comments on the revival of the Comintern point to its threat tu wbrld peace. The recent formation of the nine-nation Communist coalition !n Belgrade is seen by the press in th• United States a:; a potential weapon against the Marshall Plan and a threat to European economic recovery. Current editorials emphasize that this new Communist move must be countered by th.? speedy implementation of the aid program for Europe and the strengthening of efforts to contain Soviet expansion within the Truman Doctrine and the United Nations. What is the real meaning of the new Comintern? The New York Times views the new Communist coalition as "new obstacles to the ·conclusion of final peace." ... "The New Communist manifesto tears tc shreds all wartime agreements from the Atlantic Charter to Pobdam, and is bound to have serious repercussions upon the United Nations, already paralyzed by Russian obstruction. One positive element in it is the fact that it further clarifies the RusJian intentions and finally Stamps the Communist parti~s r~s tools of Russian imperialism. . . . The latest Rus3ian move can only give new impetus to the organization of a democratic world in self-defense. And the first step of that defense must be the rehabilitation of western Europe." Is Russia's prestige at stake? Most radio commentators and newspaper columnists ask, "Is Russia's pre3162 * tige at stake?" William Philip Simn, veteran foreign news editor, said in the New York World-Telegram: "That the Kremlin fears its plans may be upJet by the United States is now apparent. Revolution feeds on hunger, cold, suffering and despair . . . the things that, through the Mar~hall Plan and other methods, the United States is aeeking to prevent. Patently, if the United States succeeds, American prestige will soar and that of Moscow will suffer. If it fails now when so many are expecting so much from America, MoJcow has reason to hope that Europe, at least, . will be ripe for revolution." What is the challenge to the world? Most American leaders agree with Acting Secretary of State Robert A. Lovett that the United States should accept the latest Communist move· cooly and should endeavor to bring about European recovery. The New Orleans Times-Picayune wrote: "This Open confession and commitment comes at a time when western democracies are striving to bring decency and order out of the postwar confusion, to .feed and clothe the destitute victims of that conflictwhen the United States has spent and is spending billions in an unselfish effort to relieve the suffering and misery of Europe's peoples. It should awaken millions to the grim fact of CommuniJt purposes and arouse them to the active and resolute defense of their own freedom, their cherished right of self-government and the integrity and independence of their respective countries." Must America take the initiative? It is the consenJus among editorial writers that America must not be deflected from its course by Communist threats .or those of any other powers. America must push on with courage, (Please turn to page 187) Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 ls tloero any significance for an International Bill of Rights? Why is the World Drafting an Inte.rnational Bill of Human Rights? Specific Objectives 1. To get acquainted with the evolution of human rights. 2. To under3tand why human rights have been incorporated into the laws of roany countries. 8. To know what international meas .. ures have been taken to promote human rights. 4 . To know the recent steps towards the formulation of human rights. Various organizations and numerous leaders are now cooperating in the drafting of the Bill of Human Rights for the world, The last global contlict gave a good looson to the world. What is the story of the evolution of human rights? Why is the world interested in the promotion of human rights? What has been done so far in the promotion of human rights? What is the background of the Rights of Man? The history of the Rights of Man is long and interesting. ManY , religious leaders, philosophers, and kings of all ages spent time in the study of the RightJ of Man. Twenty-three centuries ago, the renowned Chinese philosopher, Mencius, said: ''The individual is of infinite value, institutions and conventions come next, and the person of the ruler is of least significance." Mencius spent his life teaching men his philosophy and encouraging them to follow his teachings. His words even inspired many of his followera to revolt. Likewise, in India, during the Maurya Dyn3"ty (322?-185 B.C.) Emperor Asoka issued World Problem an edict proclaiming religious freedom within his empire. Not only philosophers, however, taught human rights. Mohammed founded the Islam religion which teaches man's right to per3onal property, to reputation, to brotherhood, and to justice. And so did Our Lord Jesus Chrlst preach the worth and dignity of man, the absolute equality of all men irrespective of wealth and power,· and above all the spirit of love which is truly the basis of rights of men. For, without lov'J' rights are meaningleJs. Brutes respect no rights. Herodotoo, the Father of History, pointed out that isonomia or equality before the law, isotimia or equal respect, and isogoria or equal freedom of speech were the basic rights of citizens in th~ Greek city-state. Likewise, during the classical age, the Roman laws recognized the right . to property, the invfol ... ability of domiciles, and the princiPles of individual freedom. What national laws have incorporated the human rights? In our study of how man acquired his rights in Unit VIII of World History, we learned the various stages which led to the incorporation Of human rights into national laws. First, human ri&-hts were in the beginning merely a political concept. And then later they were partly or generally embodied in the Habeas Corpus Act of 1679, the Bill of Rights of 1689, the Declaration of Independence of 1776, and in the Constitution of the first states of the American * 163 union. Second, n6.tions began to recognize the human rights as a fundamental part of any constitution. Third, the French Declaration of the Rights of Man formulated in 1789, enumerated specificaliy some of these basic human rights, such as, freedom of worship, speech, press, property; protection against retroactive lAws, arbitrary arrest, and unnecessary punishments; and the rights of assembly and petition. These rights became a part of the constitutions of France. The Jacobin constitution of France in 1793 declared that ,.society owes subsistence to its unfortu .. nate citizens, either by giving them work, or &SSltPing them the means to exist if tbey are incapable of work." The movement /or the internationalization o/ human rights i.s a recent develof,ment The movement for the drafting of an international Bill of Rights started with the Geneva Convention of 1864. From then on, there followed other attempts at formulating a sort of BiU of Human Rights for the world. The history of this movement is as follows: First, the Geneva Convention of August, 1864, and the Geneva Convention of July, 1929, both formulated international agreements on the alleviation of the wounded on the battlefield and the decent treatment of prisoners of war. These agreements constitute the legal foundation of the International Red Cross. Second, in 1934 the defunct League of Nations worked out rules governing the tr~atment of any person deprived of his liberty. These rules were drawn up by the International Penal and Penitentiary Commission of the League. Third, the 1936 Convention agreed on the suppression of the slave trade and slavery in all its forms. In 1938 43 states accepted the agreement formulated by the 1936 Convention. 164 * Fourth, the League of Nations established certain principles of human rights in the form of treaties and declarations in which to base its works. These principles included the basic human rights, such as protection of minorities without distinction of birth, nationality, language, race or religion; the protec .. tion of life, liberty, and freedom of religious worship for all inhabitants of the earth; the acquisition of the nationality of any country by domicile or birth. How are the rights o/ minorities protected? The rights of the minorities in an1 country were protected by the principles adopted by the League of Nations. These principles guaranteed for the minorities equality before the law and eq\lality of civil and political rights; free use of the mother tongue in private intercouree, commerce, religion, the press. or publications, at public meetings, and before the courts; a right, equal to th st of other nationals, tp maintain at theirown expense charitable, religious, social or educational institutions; instruction in the state elementary schools in thn· language of the minority as well as a fair share of the funds provided for by the state for educational religious or charitable purposes. International protection o/ human rights On February 21, 1945, the InterAmerican Conference on Problems of War and Peace met in Mexico to discuss the problem of how to protect human rights. The Final Act of the InterAmerican Conference was the passingof the resolution on "International Pr~ tection of the Essential. Rights of Man." The resolution declared support of a 0 system of international protection t>f these rights, and re4uested the InterAmerican Juridical Committee to prepare a draft declaration and submit it ta the governments for their comments." Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 The draft specified the following human rights: the rights of man to lif~, to personal liberty, to freedom of speech and of expression, to freedom of worship, to freedom of a8,3embly, to freedom of association, to petition of government, to own property, io a nationality, t? freedom of family relations, to be free from arbitrary arrest, to a fair trial, to participate in elections, to work, to share in the benefits of science, to social security, to education, and to equality before the law. The draft wa,., submitted in February, 1946, to the governments of the Americas through the PanAmerican Union. The. latest attempt at the docu· mentation of human rights The Charter of the United Nations is so far the best expression of the efforts of .man towards the full enjoyment of hia human rights. It is the opinion of most leaders that no other international document gives the same importance to human rights. The Charter is the most comprehensive document of human rights. Article I of the Charter declares one of the purposes of the United Nationa i~ "To achieve international cooperation .... in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedom for all without distinction aa to race, sex, language, or religion." The following steps have already been taken to implement these rights: 1. In accordance with the provision in ita Charter, the United Nations created a Commission on Human Rights composed of 18 members, the duties of which are to prepare an International Bill of Rights to be submitted and ratified by all Members of the United Nations, t~ devise means for the implementation of these right3, to bring to th~ attention of the Economic and Social Council instances of the non-observance of human rights, and to make recommendations a:S to the appropriate action World Problem that shall be taken to protect these rights. 2. The United Nations also created a Sub-CommisJion on Freedom of Information and of the Press. The main function of the Commission is to determine the rights, obligations, and practices which should condition the freedom of information. 3. The Commission of the Status of Women was also set up. There ;are 15 members in this Commission. T.he main function of the Commission is to prepare recommendations and to report to· the Economic and Social Council on measures, movements, and activities promo .. ting women's political, economic, and so .. cial rights. 4. A division of the Secretariat is now at work on the compilation and pub-. lication of a Year Book on law and usage relating to Human Rights. Ir has been decided that the first edition of the Year Book should be a collection of all declarations and bills on human rights now in force in all countries. Thi.s division of the Secretariat will also have the following duties: (a) to collect and publish information on activities con .. cerning human rights of all organs of the United Nations; (b) to gather information concerning human rights arising from trials of war criminals, quislinrp1, and traitors (Nuremberg trial); (c) to make a survey of the development of human rights; and ( d) to study the plans and declarations on human rights by specialized agencies and by non-governmental national and international organizations. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Why doea the history of man's struggles for his rights interest us? 2. Recall your study of World History and explain how man fought for his rights. 3. Explain the meaning of this statement: "Render therefore unto Caesar the thing3 which are Caesar's and unto (Please tum to page 179) * 165 Why must Russia and America •ettle thefr differences? Where do the United States and Russia Face Each Other? Specific objectives: 1. To know the significance of the places where the United States and Russia face each other in conflict 2. To understand the problems brought about by the struggle among great powers for positions 3. To appreciate the necessity of settling the conflicts between the United States ·and Russia. The events of the last eleven months clearly show the division of the world into two - the Soviet World and the Western World. Russia has filled the vacuums left by World War II in Ea.tern Europe and Asia. The United States has succeeded in filling the vacuum left in the Pacific. Tiie two big powers of the world face each other almost all around the world. Where d1 they meet? What is the significance of this situation? The United States faces Russia in Europe Russia has incorporated Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, part of Finland, Eastern Poland, the Carpatho-Ukraine area of Czechoslovakia, BeJarrabia, Bukovina and part of Germany's East Prussia. Russia is well entrenched through various Communist governments in Rumania, Albania, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, and Hungary. The United States face3 Russia in Berlin and on the western border of the Russian zone in Germany. In Austria, American troops face Russia eastward as far as the Russian zone of occupation. American and Ruasi~n troops are in Trieste.' 166* In the Balkans the American troops face Russia along the YugoslavianGreek and Bulgarian-Greek borders. The Communists occupy regions above the regions bordering Greece. Below this line, American experts are assisting the Greek program of rehabilitation. It is generally believed by most "bservers that if Russia tries to extend her influence below her Communis't-dominated region in the, Balkans an open conflict may result with the United States. Greece is the living symbol of democratic bastion in southern Europe for· both the United States and Great Britain. The United States faces Russia in the Middle Elist What is the boundary that separat<e Russia and the United State.. in tho Middle East? The present boundary under the influence of the United. States begins from northern Greece, across northern Turkey to the Black Sea. American aid has been extended to Turkey under the Ti-uman Doctrine. A training mission has already beet.1 sent to Turkey. There iJ also an official military mission in Iran. Turkey is trying very hard to get oil concessions in northern Iran. The United States has a large military air base in Dhahran in Saudi Arabia. The United States economic interests in Saudi Arabia forbidJ Russia from making further infiltration into the Middle J\last. The presence of a U. S. fleet in the Eastern Mediterranean makes Russia hesitate to start a major cor..flict. Russia ha."J been courting Arab nationalists i_n the hope of strengthening her influence in the Middle East. Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 The United States faces Russia in Asia '.!'he United States and Ruasia also rub against eac}J other in Asia. Their interest3 clash. India is a potential ally of the United States in case of another war. And India is at the back door of Russia. Russia knows the strategic value of India in any world conflict. This is the main reason why she is exerting freat efforts to spread communism in India. Burma, too, is within the United States influence. Recent Communist infiltration in Burma found little success. The recent treaty concluded between Britain and Burma, granting the Burme3e freedom in January, 1948, makes Burma a potential ally of the United States. China is the country in Asia where peace has not been restored since the intermittent civil war between the Chinese Communists and the Chinese Nationalists began in 1928. There b an American naval training mission 1n Tsingtao. There is also a small military mission at Nanking. The boundary of China which might cause the conflict between the United States and RusJia is afong her northern borders. Should the Chinese people decide to support the Chinese Communists against the Central government, Russian and American troops might clash because both countries have agreed to recognize the ChineJe Nationalist Government as the legitimate government. Korea is divided between the United States and Russia. The division is at the 88th parallel. American troops estimated at 3 divisions occupy and face 13 Russian divisions in the northern 'zone. The Russians have been trying hard .to communize northern Korea. The United States has been trying to prepare southern Korea for democratic living. The sharp conflict between these two countries has already reached the United Nations. The United Nations political and security committee has approved by World Problem an overwhelming vote the United Sta1'.a propoJal to send a roving commission to Korea to consult with Korean representativetl on their participation in the dig. cussion of the eolution of the Korean problem. The United States face11 Russia in the Pacific What boundary separates the United State3 and Russia in the north Pacific? American troops , are in Japan, Okinarwa, in the Aleutians, and Alaska. In the middle of these strategic United States outposts are Russian troops. The Russian troop3 are entrenched on the chain of islands formerly owned by Japan-the Kuriles, 32 islands in all, and on Sakhalin Island, north of Japan. The boundary that separates the United States and Russia starts from this area to the Bering Strait in the north. Ru&sian boundary reaches to within 40 miles of United States territory at the tip of Alaska. The Japanese mainland and the Kuriles and Sakhalin are very strategic for both the United States and· Ru3Sia in case of an open conflict. The United States is not taking any chance in Japan. Although there is an attempt by Japanese communists to undermine American policies in Japan, however, there is no possible source of immediate conflict between the United States and RusJia in Japan. The United States faces Russia in the Arctic You remember that in 1946 there was a race for the vast wastes of the Arctic by several powers. The frontiers of the United States and Rus3ia meet in the Arctic. Russia has established in the Arctic several weather observations or posts. She recently expanded her exploration of the· Arctic region. Russia 's Arctic Institute is desperately discovering more weather posts. Rus:1ia acquired from Finland the Arctic port • 167 of Petsamo, and sh~ is trying to secure bases on Spitzbergen. The United States is establishing permanent air bases in: Alaska and Maine. She is also establishing a naval base in Newfoundland, and she carries on regular weather flights in the polar regions. Both Russia and the United States are trying to secure strategic positions for the next world confli.Ct. It can not be denied now that the struggle for the vast wastes of the Arctic region among the great powers is a struggle for a strategic military position. The United States faces Russia in Latin America Latin America is generally within the United States world. The conclusion of the Inter-American treaty for defense against aggression within or against the Western Hemisphere by 19 Ameri.ean republics is a warning to Russia. Russian communists are active in many Latin American Republics. Because of the activities of Russian communists, Chile and Brazil have broken off diplomatic relations \Yith Russia. What is the significance of the ideological boundaries of these two worlds? The United States has been forced to do the job of world policeman mainly b; the fai\ure of the early establishment of a world police as conceived by the Charter of the United Nations. The United States has been forced to make commitments outside her boundaries be.cause of the aggres3ive Russian foreign i(lolicies which threaten world peace. The strength of the United States hes in her powerful navy, air force, and vast industrial power. The United States has 85% of the wealth and industrial power of the world. Where does the weakne:s of the United States lie? Russian pro-communists can penetrate the regions within the United 168 * States w0rld and upset the existing g<>Vernment. Russia has done this in Eastern Europe. The , strength of Russia lies in Eurasia. Soviet land forces in Europe outside of Russia, estimated ~t 1,100,000, outnumber the combined American and British troops in Europe. .Russia could easily overrun Europe and the ·Middle East without serious opposition. Russian fifth column can do harmful work. The chief weakness of Russia lies in the absence of a navy and in her inferior industrial and scientific potential either for peace or for war. It is important for the sake of world peace that Russia and the United States should find a basis for cooperation. If the two countries fail to resolve their differences several results will follow, First, the world will continue to be divided into two. This division will b~ harmful to world peace. Second, occupation troops will continue to ~main in Germany, Austria, and Korea at the expense of the peoples of those countries. The differences between the United States and Russia in Korea, for instance, are the main cause for the delay of Korean independence. Third, the Soviet World and the Western World would be forced to make each sphere self-sufficient. Thia would mean restriction of trade which is not conducive to world prosperity. The future operation of the Marshall Plan and the Molotov Plan in Europe would not generally bring about prosperity for the whole European countries. If the two countries could settle their differences, there would be peace in the world, tensions would be eaSed, suspicions and distrusts V{ould be lessened, the rehabilitation of Europe would be hastened. There would be freedom from fear and freedom from want, and the peoples of Korea, Germany, and Austria could, begin life anew. (Please turn to paqe 187) Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 Is the plan workable? What are Needed by Europe for Economic Recovery? Specific objectives-: 1. To know what Europe needs to recover economically. 2. To get acquainted with the nature of the economic recovery program. 3. To appreciate the efforts being exerted to bring about the economic recovery of Europe. The economic recovery program prepared by the Committee on European ·Economic Cooperation composed of representatives from 16 European countries,. in line with the suggestions given by Secretary of State George C. Marshall, is now under study by the State Department for possible action. What are the recommendations of the Committee on European Economic Cooperation ? What is the significance of the recommendations? Purposes of the economic recovery program The report of the Committee on European Economic Cooperation outlined the basic aims of the recovery program. The report is primarily a close and careful analysis of the maladjustments which have resulted from the war and of what the 16 nations participating in the conference can do for themselves and for each other to work towards a lasting solu~ion. Above all, the report formulated an economic recovery program for the participating countries, which is aimed at putting Europe on its feet by the end of 1951. According to the report, the European countries should work for (1) the creation of internal financial stability, (2) a strong production effort by each of the participating countries, (3) the maximum coWorld Problem operation· among the participatiflg countries and (4) the solution of the common problems of the participating countries, particularly their trading deficit with the American continent. What does the economic recovery program expect to accomplish by 1951? The economic recovery program expects to achieve the following ultimate results by 1951: Food: Restoration of prewar bread, grain, and other cereal production, with large increases above prewar production in sugar and potatoes, some increases in oils and fats, and as fast an expansion in livestock products as supplies of feeding-stuffs will allow. Coal: Increase of coal output to 684,000,000 tons, which is 146,000,000 tons above the 1947 level and 30,000,000 tons above the 1938 level. Electricity: Expansion of electricity output by nearly 70,000,000,000 KWH, or forty per cent above 1947 output, and a growth of generating capacity of 25,000,000 KWH or t\yo--thirds above prewar capacity. Oil: Development of oil refining capacity to increase crude oil production by 17 ,000,000 tons, or two and one-half times the prewar level. Steel: Increase of crude steel production to 55,000,000 tons or 10,000,000 tons, or twenty per cent above 1938 production and eighty per cent above that of 1947. Inland transport: Expansion of inland transport to reach by 1951 a capacity twenty-five per cent greater than that in 1938. * 169 Shipping: Restoration of prewar merchant fleeta of the participating countries by 1951. Capital equipment: Sufficient European production of most of the capital equipment needed for these expanaions. Productive capacity The countries of Western Europe have determined to use all their efforts in cooperatively developing their respective production in order to achieve the aims of the economic recovery program. The production program provides for the . foundation of a sound and workable European economy, based on maximum use of. the participating nations' resources, manpower, and productive capacity. How will this economic recovery be stimulated? This may be done by relaxing import restrictions, by facilitating payment arrangements between the various countries, and by freely allowing the transfer of surplus labor. An announcement has already been issued to set up a customs union to study the problem of relaxing import restricti.ons. Collective action on special problems Aside from the plan to increase their supplies of scarce commodities and to increase the flow of their trade, the participating countries have agreed to act collectively on their common special problems. What are some of the problems requiring collective action? 1. The exploitation of new sources of power. A series of power plants will be erected to exploit the hydr~-electric resources of the Alps, certain German lignite deposits, and Italian reserves of geothermic energy. 2. The standardization of mining and electrical supplies and freight cars. 3. Greater utilization of freight <'&rs and the facilitation of the international flow of traffic. 4. Better and faster system of exchanging information by the steel pro17.0. ducing countries on their programs of modernization and expansion for closer and more effective cooperation. Expansion of exports to the rest of the world The report emphasized that, while the first element of the recovery pi'ogram for Europe is the increase of European production, it will be imppssible to solve the economic problems of Europe unless market conditions in the American continent allow European and other countries to sell goods there in increasing quantities. The expansion of the exports of the 16 participating European coun ... tries to the rest of the world would greatly help reduce the deficits of these countries within the four-year period, 1948-1951. It has been estimated that; at the rate their trade is going on now, the total deficit of these countries with the United States from 1948 to 1951 will be $15,810,000,000 and the deficit with the rest of the Amerltan continent for the same period will be $5,970,000,000. If these 16 tountries will be given favorable world conditions, it is estimated that at the end of the four year period 1948-1951, they will have a substantial surplus in their trading account. What is the hope of Europe? The hope of Europe is unmistakably described by the. report of the Committee on European Economic CooperatioJL It says: "The problem which the Committee of Cooperation has been working to solve in Paris is the aftermath of the war. The committee now submits its proposals for the necessary restorative action on the European side by production, stabilization and cooperation be .. tween the participating countries, as well as by measures to stimulate the free flow of goods and services. These proposals are reinforced by definite and specific undertakings by each of the countries concerned. But these undertakings can be successfully carried out (Please turn to page 192) Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 Why is a Declaration of International Human Rights Important? Several proposals are now being drafted for an international Bill of Human Rights. The first regular session of the United Nations General Ad· sembly held in 1946 approved the drafting of an international Bill of Huma11 Rights for discussion, debate, and ap· proval by the United Nations General Assembly. The United States recently released the draft of a world declaration of human rights which will be discussed at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in Geneva from Decem· ber 1 to 19, 1947. Full text of the draft 11 Whereas, by the Charter of thll United-Nations all members affirm their faith in the dignity and worth of tho. human person and pledge themselves to cooperate in promoting respect for bu· man rights and fundamental freedom for all; "Now, therefore, the General Assembly of the United Nations resolves to set forth in a solemn declaration these es· eential rights and fundamental freedoms of man, and calls upon the peoples of the world to promote the rights and freedom hereby proclaimed. ARTICLE 1 "Everyone is entitled to life, Hberty, and equal protection under the faw. ARTICLE 2 ~'Everyone has the right to freedom of information, speech, and expression; to freedom of religion, conscience, and belief; to freedom of assembly and of association; and to freedom to petition his government and the United Nations. ARTICLE 3 "No one shall be subjected to unreasonable interference with his privacy, World Problem family, home, correspondence or repute. .. tion. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his property. ARTICLE 4 "There shall be liberty to move freely from place to place within the state, to emigrate, and to seek asylum from persecution. ARTICLE 5 uNo one shall be held in slavery or involuntary servitude, No one shall be subjected· to torture, or to cruel or inhuman punishment or indignity. ARTICLE 6 "No one shall be subjected to arbitrarv arrest or detention. Anyone who is arrested has the right to be promptly in· formed of the charges against him, and to trial within a reasonable time to be released. ARTICLE 7 "Everyone, in the determination of his rights and obligations, is entitled to a fair hearing before an ir,dependent and Impartial tribunal and to the aid of coun· set. No one shall be convicted or punished for crime except after public trial pursuant to law in effect at the i:ime of the commission of the act charged. Everyone, regardless of office or status, is subject to the rule of law. ARTICLE 8 '~Everyone has the right to a nationality. Everyone has a right to take an effective part in his government directly or through his representatives; and to participate in elections, which shall be periodic, free, and by secret ballot. (Please turn to page 189) * 171 Is Kore a a victim of rivalry'! What is the Future of Korea? Specific objectives: 1. To understand the Soviet and American policies on Korea. 2. To get authentic information on what is happening in Korea. 3. To understand the present rivalry between Russia and the United States in Korea. On December l, 1943, a statement was released announcing the results of the Cairo Conference held among the late President · Roosevelt, former Prime Minister Churchill, and Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek. The statement said that the United States, Great Britain, and China had agreed to grant Korea independence "in due course.'' In the conference at Yalta among the late President Roosevelt, former Prime Minister Churchill and Generalissimo Stalin, Russia seconded the Cairo agreement on the independence of Korea. It was alao decided in the Yalta Conference that Russia would be allowed to occupy th~ northern part of Korea and the United St..tes, the southern half. The 38th parallel was made the dividing line of occupation between the Russian and American forces. At the Moscow Conference in'December 1945, former Secretary of State James F. Byrne3, Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin, and Foreign Minister Viacheslav Molotov, agreed to place Korea uiider a four-power trusteeship "for a period of up to five years." For two years now there has been a deadlock in the policies of Russia .and the United States on the future of Korea. What are the reasons for this dead· lock? What is the Russian policy in Korea? What is the American policy in Korea? What will be the future of Korea? 172 * Failure of conferences At the Moscow conference of 1945, the United States and Russia agreed to hold a joint sOviet-American military con-ference to coordinate the administrative and economic functions of the two zones and to estsblish.a joint Soviet-American Commission, which, in consultation witll the Korean leaders, would draft the Jlfaa of a democratic provisional government for Korea. As soon as this is done, the governments of the United States, Britain, Russia, and China would formallJ establish the provisional government of Korea. The meeting of the joint milital'J' Soviet-American conference on the coordination of the administrative and economic' functions of the two zones of oc .. cupation failed to arrive at any concrete agreement for the benefit of the people of Korea. What is the result of the failure? The failure has caused the Koreans much sufferings because they have no economic unity. They are shi&rpJy divided economically. The joint Soviet-American Commission met from March 20 to May 6, 1946, to study plans for the establishment of a provisional government. The conference also failed because Russia made impossible demands. Russia made the demand that ali Koreans opposed to the Moscow decision on the establishment of a trusteeship be excluded from consultation in the creation of the provisional government and from participation in the administration of Korea. The Amer.. ican delegates strongly opposed this view because it is undemocratic. Because of this rivalry, Korea continueB to suffer. Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 During the Moscow Conference, held from March 10 to April 24, 1947, Secretaey of State George C. Marshall invited Foreign Minister Molotov to resume the conference of the joint Soviet-American Commission for the purpose of deciding aa to how the Korean leaders should be consulted. Russia agreed to the resumption Of the~ conference. The conference failed again, because Russia made impossible demands on what Korean parties should be consulted with. The Soviet delegation submitted a list of parties to be consulted, but the list omitted 24 parties with a total membership of about 16,200,000. "The Soviet delegation has insisted/' wrote Acting United States Secretary of State Robert A. Lovett to Soviet Foreign Minister Molotov, "on the unilateral right to exclude parties which have expressed distaste for 'trusteeship', even though such parties have declared and reiterated their inteli.tion fully to support the joint commissior and have, in fact, since signing the declaration, not instigated active opposi. tion to the work of the commission. The Soviet position is not only contrary to the specific items of the agreement between you and Secretary Marshall; it is also contrary to the democratic principle of freedom of opinion." Two bold steps taken by t.he United States For almost two years the government of the United States has devoted its utmost efforts to carry out the terms of the Moscow agreement of 1945, particularly that on the eventual independence of l{orea. The stalemate in the joint commission negotiations and the failure Qf that commission to consult the Ko .. f.ean leaders have made it abundantly clear to all that bilateral negotiations on the subject of consultation with Korean political parties and organizations will cpnly serve to delay the implementation of the Moscow agreement of 1946. And this means that Korea may not have its Foreign Affairs independence as early as promised hy the Big Four. The United States proposed a fourpower action on Korea; that is, the United States, Britain, Russia and China would meet in Washington on September 8, 1947, to decide on how the Moscow agreement of 1946 should be carried out. The United States gave an outline for the solution of the Korean ques~ion. The conference was not held. Jn view of the rejection of the United States proposal by Russia, Secretary of State George C. Marshall took another bold step by placing the Korean question before the Ge11eral Assembly. The Russian delegate bitterly opposed the American move. Russian counter-proposal After the United States had submitted the Korean question to the General Assembly, Russia sent a proposal to the American government proposing the withdrawal of both Russian and Amer· ican troops from Korea at the beginning of 1948. Most radio commentators, newspaper columnists, political leaders, and editorial writers agreed that had Russia made the proposal early in 1946, the proposal might have been acceptable. The Russia11 proposal for the withdrawal of Russian and American troops is viewed as a well-prepared plan to make all Korea another Russian puppet. In its editorial for October 14, 1947, the New York Times commented: 14This plan (Russian plan) is based on the establishment in the Russian sector of Korea o~ a Russian-dominated, all Communist 'People's' government and the creation of a Korean Red Army numbering more than 200,000 men and pos .. sibly half a million. The jPeople's' gov· ernment has already liquidated all national opposition, has jailed its leaders and terrorized the population, and has established an all-Communist administration reaching into the smallest villages." * 173 United States resolution adopted The United Nations approved the United States resolution providing for the establishment of a United Nations temporary Commission on Korea for the purpose of facilitating and expediting the participation of the representatives o.( the Korean people. The commission shall consist of the representatives of Australia, Canada, China, El Salvador, France, India, the Philippines, Syria and the Ukraine. The resolution recommends that elections by secret ballot be held in Korea not later than March 31, 1948, on the basis of adult suffrage to choose representatives with whom the Commission may consult regarding the independence of Korea. The representatives may ·~on stitute a national assembly and may establish a national government for Korea. The election wil1 be under the supervision of the Commission. Immediately upon its establishment, the national government shall make consultation with the Commission regarding the dissolution of all military or semi-military organizations, the taking over of the functions of government from the military commands and civilian authorities of north and south Korea, and the withdrawal of the armed furces from Korea. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Why was it decided to have a joint Soviet-American conference to coordinate the economic functions of the two zones of occupation in Korea'! 2. Northern Korea is rich in fuel resources. S'outhern Korea is rich in grain resources. Why is the failure to unify Korea economically disadvantageous to the Koreans? 3 . How is the rivalry between the United States and Russia in Korea harmful to the Koreans? 4. Why did Rus8ia refuae to make oonsultations with Korean leaders who 174. opposed the Moscow agreement on the eetablishment of trusteeship? 6. What was the motive of the United States in making the resolution for·tbe establishment of the Commission? 6. The New York Herald Tribune proposed the election of a Korean as• eembly and the creation of a Korean government under the supervision ~f the United Nations prior to the withdrawal of American and Russian troops. Do you favor this proposal ? Why 7 7. Do you think that if the United States troops withdraw from South Korea, the Koreans never would have their own government? Would they have a Communist dictatorship 7 Why 7 References 1. 11U.S. Proposes Four-Power Action on Korea," Special Release No. 368 (SeJ>tember 3, 1947), United States Information Service. 2. 0 Editorial Roundup on Korea," Special Release No. 585 (October 16, 1947), United States Information Service. 3. Park, No· Yong.-ucross Current in Korea," Current History Vol. 11, No. 63 (November, 1946), pp. 389-396. 4. Oliver, Robert T.-"Korea,'' Vital Speeches, Vol. XIII No. 11' (March 15. 1947), pp. 329-332. 6. "When Will Korea Get Ber Independence ?" Current Events Review, Vol. II, No. 9 (March, 1947), p. 9. ATING WIK.A a sister publication to this magazine contains abundant, illustrated materials of instruction in the Filipino National Language for grade-school children. Current Events Review, Dec.. llM7 Has mankind lea.med the fundamentals of pea,ce1 Why is Complete Peace being Delayed? Specific objectives: 1. To get acquainted with the most important peace problems of 1947. 2. To understand the factors that delayed the attainment of complete peace. 3. To appreciate the world efforts in formulating a workable peace plan. The year 1947, which has been called the "Year of Decision," is coming to a c!oJe. During the last 11 months the great leaders of the world have bee!\ trying to bring about the settlement of the different peace problems of the world. What are the outstanding peace problems of 1947 which· leaders have tried to settle? What factors are delaying the settlement of these peace problems? The Allies have failed President Harry S. Truman, in an impaJsion'ed speech delivered at the Inter-American Defense Conference, Petropolis, Brazil, on September 2, 1947, made mention of the failure of the Allies to solve the peace problems of the world. "The people of the United States," spoke President Truman, "engaged in the recent war in the deep faith that we were opening the way to a free world and that out of the terrible suffering caused by the war something better would emerge than the world had known before. The postwar era, however, has brought U3 bitter disappointment and deep concern. We find that a number of nations are still subjected to a type of foreign domination which we fought to overcome; many of the remaining, peoples of Europe and Asia live under the shadow of World Problem armed aggression. No agreement has been reached among the Allies to main .. tain the outlines of a peace settlement. In con3equence, we are obliged to contemplate a prolonged military occup,... tion of enemy territories. This is profoundly distasteful to our people." There is rw freedom from fear One of the four essential huma.n freedoms which the' Allies espoused during the last war iJ freedom from feUIT". This means freedom from tyranny, oppression, and secret police. The peoples of the Balkans have been longing for this freedom. The recent Communist coup in Hlingary, the rigged election in Poland in January, the recent election in Bulgaria, the guerrilla activities in northern Greece, the uneasiness of the Gerrnan3 in the Russian zone of occUpation and the plight of the Austrians in the Russian zone - all these are disturbing situations· that create anxiety among the peace-loving peoples of the world. Long standing armies of occupation have become very distasteful to the Austrian3, Germans, and Koreans. The promise of early withdrawal has been delayed because of the failure of the big powers to arrive at a reaJOnable peace settlement. Shadow of aggression Many peoples are still under the shad· ow of armed aggression. The people of Iran fear Russian pressure for oil concessions. The people of northern Greece fear the Communist ·thrust in Greek Macedonia. The people of Turkey are "spending more money on the modernization of the armed forces than * 175 on the general economic program of th, country, because they are apprehensive of the Russian demand for the return Qf certain districts in northern Turkey close to Russia and for joint control and defense of the strategic Dardanelles. The Chinese near the border of Outer Mongolia fear the attack of Communists in the Soviet-dominated Outer Mongolia. The people of South Korea are also apprehensive of the activitie3 of the Communist-trained Korean leaders in the north zone. The United States fears that, if she accepts the Russian proposal to withdraw the Russian and American troops from Ko-. rea, Korea might be absorbed into the Communist orbit. Again, terrorism has frequently been occurring in Palestine 17&*' during the last eleven -months. The conflict between the Arabs and the J e"'"S at times takes the form of an open conflict. Open con/licts delay peace The war in French Indo-China between the Annamese and the French forces is still unsettled. The latest Jr'rench offer for the cessation of hostilities was rejected by the leaders of Viet Nam. Likewise, the civil war between the Chinese Communists and Chine3e Nationalists continue to delay the rehabilitation of China. The recent armed conflict between the Dutch and the Indonesian Republic has made complicated the settlement of the Indonesian problem. Equally dark is the conflict. Current Events Review, Dec. 194 7 between the two newly-bom Indian nations - Hind~tan, under Pa:pdit J ti.· waharlal Nehru and Pakistan under Mohammed Ali Jinnah. Late in October, 1947, 50Q non-Moslems were reported slaughtered. Religious differences between the MoJlems a,;d the Hindus continue to divide the internal peace of the two newly-born Indian nations. There is no freedom /ram want There is no complete freedom from want· today. There is grain acan:ity in many European countries. Severe drought greatly reduced the produce of Norway, Sweden, Germany, and France. Likewise, Britain and Austria suffered considerable crop losses. Britain's crisis has just begun. She faces great economic problems on account of the treWoHd Problem mendous .shortages in . staple commodities. Siniilarly, shortages of food, coa1, and dollars are threatening France with disaster this winter. Communist revival in France is very possible under such economic condition. Italy, too, has as much acute economic problems &J France. But worse still is the famine that threateni China. The threat becomes graver and gr&Ver as the civil war continues. This is the picture of the world today. Millions of people have not been freed from want. Pe(lce treatiea /or Japan, Germany, and Austria have not been concluded The Big Power<i have not yet concluded the peace treaties for these three countries. The MoJcow Conference held from March 10 to April 24 failed to complete the draft for the peace treaties with Germaity and Austria. Differences among the Big Four on German reparations, German assets, German economic unification, on the future German government, and on tei;ritorial boundaries of Germany and Poland caused the failure of the Moscow Conference. The peace treaty for Japan has not yet been outlined. The delay in the conclusion of the peace treaties with these three Axis countries delays also the peace of the world. Just. as· the solution of the German problem is th~ key.stone to the peace of Europe, so is the concluJion of a peace treaty with Japan to the. Far East. The problems o/ atomic enern control, disarmamen.t and world police await solutmn The peacemakers of the world hav• not yet arrived at an agreement on the international control of atomic energy. Although the American plan is favored by the majority uf the eleven memben of the Security Conncil, Russia re fuses to accept ii. More than 16 months have now elapsed and still *177 no agreement ha&, Been reached on tha control of atomic energy. Likewise, the que$tion of disarmament or the reduction of. arms is still under discussion. After more than a year of planning no concrete step has been taken to reduce arms. Only the blueprint for a world police, provided by the Charter of the United Nation31 has been finished by th~ Military Staff Committee of the Security Council. The blueprint, however, is still under study. The division of tha. world into two opposing camps delays peace There are two rival worlds today - the Soviet World and the Democratic World. These two worlds are sharply in conflict in their ideologies and methods of achieving peace. The •rrum'ln Doctrine and the Marshall Plan are directly opposed by the Stalin Doctrine and Molotov Plan. The Truman Doctrine stands for aid to countries fighting to maintain their free institutions. The Mar~hall Plan aims to help Europe reconstruct its economy through mutual and collective action. The Stalin Doctrine stands for the reaffirmation of the Soviet policy of security, Festige, and power. The Molotov Plan calls fur the economic cooperation of countries in Eastern Europe. Russia has begun a counter offensive against the Truman D~trine and the Marshall Plan. On October 5, 1947, Russia announced the rebirth of the Communist International or Comintern. The Communist International w a OJ founded in 1919 by delegates from 12 European countries. Its main purpose is to overthrow the present order and to erect in its place a Socialist world order. It wa3 "abolished" in 1943. The Com· munist International was purposely revived to coordinate Communist force.s: against United States imperialism and to wreck the Marshall Plan. 178* Faith in God is the true foundation of peace President Truman in his letter to His Holiness, Pope Pius XII, said: "I believe that the greateJt need of the world today, fundamental to all else, is a renewal of faith.... We must have faith in the inevitable triumph of truth and decency; faith that mankind shall live in freedom, not in chains of untruth nor in the chains of a collectivist ot'ganization of their lives; faith of such fulness that it will energize men and women everywhere. . . . . The times demand faith that ia strong enough to struggle, if need be, for the right." The answer of His Holiness, Pope Pius XII, to the letter of President Truman reads in part: "What is proposed is to ensure the foundationJ of a la.sting peace amon'l n at i on s.. . . . The foundations, we know, of such a peace can be secure on~ ly if they rest on bedrock of faith m the "one true God, the Creator of all men.. . . . Once the state to the exclusion of God makes itself the source of the rights of the human person, man is forthwith reduced to the condition of. a slave or a mere civic conunoditf to be exploited for the selfish aims of a gtoup that happens to have power. The order. of God is overturned and history surely makes it clear to those who wiah to read that the inevitable result is war. The t~k then before the frienda of peace is clear." Exercises to Develop Thinkilig 1. Why are some nations still under a certain form of foreign domination? Name some nations under foreign domination today. 2. Why is there no freedom from fear today? 3 . Why is it that ""rtain peoples are still under the shadow of armed aggression? (Please tum to the next page) Current'Events Review, Dec. 1947 Why is the World ••• (Co,.tinued from page 165) God the things which be God's." Do you believe in it? Why? 4. Why have the human rights been incorporated in the national laws of many countries? Consult a copy of OU!" Constitution and examine the Bill of Rights. What are the rights incorporated in it? 5. What prompted the United Nations to take definite measures to protect human rights? Henri Bonnet, a diJtinguished French writer, wrote: uu the unity of the world, which even now exists only in the material sense, is one day to become a political and moral reality, it is essential that these rights be recognized universally." Do you agree with him? Why? 6. In the draft of the "Declaration of Rights," prepared by the National Catholic Welfare Conference and submitted to the Oommission on Human Rights, there is a statement which say3: "The unity of the human race under God Is not broken by geographical distance or by diversity of civilization, culture and economy, and the adequate use of the world's resources by all peoples is not to be denied becauJe of these factors. Weakness resulting from conquest or imperfection in governmental organization should not be used as a pretext to reject the fundamental rights of man or to impede their legitimate exercise.'~ Do you believe in this statement? Why? 7. Gan you give your reason3 why we need an International Bill of Rights? References 1. "Evolution of Human Rights,'• United Natwns: Weekly Bulletin, Vol. No. 1, No. 2 (August 12, 1946) pp. 1215. 2. Stettinius, Edward F. "Human Rights in tbe United Nations Charter" Essential Human Rights, The Annals World Problem Why is Complete Peace ••• (Continued from page 178) 4. Explain why open conflict delays peace. 5. How is hunger related to peace? 6. Why should the world feed tha hungry nations? 7. Why did the latest Moscow Conference fail? Recall the article in the July issue of the Current Events Re· view on the failure of the Moscow Conference. 8. What have the control of atomic energy, the disarmament program, and the organization of wOrld police to do with the safety of nationa? 9. Why is the existence of two worlds dangerous to peace? 10. What do President Truman and Pope Pius XII recommend to maintain global peace? Explain. References 1. Text of the letter of President, Truman to Pope Pius XII on August g, 1947. 2. Text of the letter of Pope Pius XII to President Truman on August 2dt 1947. 3. Truman, Harry S. - 0 Permanent World Peace," Vital Speeches, Vol. XIII, No. 23 (September 15, 1947) pp. 711718. 4. "Vital World Problems Face Aasembly," United Natwns: Weekly Bulletin, Vol. III, No. 12 (September 16, 1947) pp. 843-356. (of the American Academy of Political and Social Science), Vol. 243 (January, 1946), pp. 1-3. 3, Merriam, Charles E. ' 1The Content of an International Bill of Right3," Essential Human Rights, The Annals (of the American Academy of Political and Social Science), Vol. 243 (January, 1946) pp. 11-17. 4. Leyburn, James G. World Minorlt11 Problems, Public Affairs Pamphlet No. 132, pp. 1-4. * 179 Significant World News Roundup GREECE Report from Greece Loy W. Henderson, director of the .State Department's Office of Near Eastern and African Affairs, who has just returned from a fi:r..st-hand study of conditions in Greece, gives a significant report. What are his significant findings on the conditions in Greece? First, most Greeks are still liberal at heart. They still cherish the ideals of tolerance and democracy. Second, it is not true that Greece is divided into two sharply contrasting economic groups-the very rich and the very poor. There are todaY very few rich P,eople in Greece. Third, it is not true that most of the Greek working class are against the present Greek government and that they have deep sympathies for the guerrillas. The average Greek worker is still a loyal citizen. Fourth, loyal and patriotic Greek trade union leaders have taken measures against the attempt3 of communists to gain control of the Greek trade unions. They know that it :is through the trade unions that the relatively small number of communi-sts have succeeded in gaining economic and political influence in several European countrie;:;. Fifth, it is not true that all noncommunist Greek political leaders are incompetent, petty; and entirely selfseeking. We can still find among the political leaders the same spirit of lofty patriotism and broad statesmanship as exbt among political leaders in the United States. Sixth, there is no truth in· the statement that Greek guerrillas are fighting for freedom and democracy, Majority of the guenillas are either poli~ical opponents of the Greek postwar government or villagers conscripted by 180 * force ~or guerrilla activity. Even the political enemies of the postwar government of Greece, in fact, are now disgu3ted with their communist leaders. What is the significance of the newa7 The report of Henderson is very significant because it corrects 6everal current misrepresentations of the Greek people. The suffering3 of Greece have not undermined the "national will to retain independence." Henderson says _that the hope for the future of Greece lies in the stubborn individualism, devotion to democracy, and the patriotism of a great majority of the people. JAPAN Japanese Emperor may lose special status A section of Japan's criminal code, which provides that '1even obscure in· tention of injurious acts against the Emperor or any member of his family i·S punishable by execution," may he voided by the House of Representatives. What is the significance of the news7 In the eyes of the law, accordipg to Gordon Walker, a noted American correspondent, the Emperor and his family and his property will no longer De protected by special laws. He will be on the same status as any Japanese citizen. The abolition of this special taw is the second measure directed by the new Japanese Government against the special rights and privileges of the Emperor. The first was the Constitutional provision depriving the Emperor of all governmental powers. It i3 possible that the abolition of the special status of the Emperor might encourage the abolition of the Emperor system. Current Events Review, Dec. l947 UNITED STATES U.S. desires the economic recovery of occupied areas One significant aim of the foreign policy of the United States is the economic recovery of United States 'Occupied areas in Europe and in Asia. Under· Secretary of the Army William H. Draper, Jr. recommends that the U.S. occu.:. pied areas in Europe and Asia should be made to produce sufficient industrial and agricultural products, not only for home consumption but for export. .. They must export to live unless. Amer· lea Is willing to pay the deficit," Draper said. What Is the significance of the news? Members of the U.S. Congress are now touring the different occupied areas in Europe and Asia to make on-the-spot studies of .. the economic conditions of these areas. This act of Congress re· affirme the United States' desire to effect the economic recovery of occupied areas. American leaders believe that only through economic recovery can Germany and Japan become self-supporting and self-respecting and that peace depends on the economic suffi. ciency of ell nations of the world. CIDNA U.S. aid to China is important Lt. Gen. Wedemeyer recently returned from a first-hand study of conditiona in China to report to President Truman. He said that unless reforms are introduced by the National government, China would be drawn into the Soviet orbit. United States aid, therefore, is tions. "We Americans," said Gen. Wedemeyer, "should support the aspirn· tions: H We Americans," said Gen. Wedemeyer, '1should support the aspirations of the Chinese to improve their cultural position and to participate intelligently in their government." International News What is the significance of the news? The civil war ha3 retarded rehabilitation and stabilization of China. And the already deplorable situation has been aggravated by the maladministration of corrupt officials. Conditions in the Far East immediately after the last World War were similar to those in Europe. There were untold sufferings and chaos. The Soviet Union, according to Gen. Wedemeyer, seized this op· portunity to spread communism. Now, Soviet propaganda and Soviet support of the Chinese Communist movement have increased the difficulties of establishing order in China. 14 As is always· the case, milUona of innocent people, men, women, and children, are caught in the maelstroms of conflicting ideologies and also a struggle for power on the part of the political leaders. It is this unfortunate group that I believe Americans, as well as Chinese living abroad, should help in every possible way. I agree that such help must be extended to the deserving and must not strengthen unscrupulous political and military leaders." BURMA Burma freedom assured The House of Commons approved on November 6, 1947, a government bill granting Burma her freedom. Under the provision3 of the bill, Burma will become independent in January, 1948. The treaty -signed by Prime Minister Clement Attlee and Premier Thakin Nu of Burma provides for the transfer of Britain's power over Burma to th~ new Federal Republic of Burma. The treaty covers defense, finance, economic, and other legal and contractual agree-ments. What is the significance of the news? Britain has admini3tered Burma since 1826. Burmese nationalism was awakened as a result of the Russo-Japanese War in 1904-1905. It became * 181 marked during World War I. The Burmese campaign for a separate nationality gained ground in 1935 when Burma was administered. aJ a separate country. Since then, the Burmese have been desiring to gain their absolute freedom from England. The decision of the British governnient to grant independence to Burma is unprecedented because it "has not resulted from the exercise of threat o·f fOrce." The Baltimore Sun aptly said: "Had Britain cholen instead to meet the Burmese demand for independence head-on, or even, as Winston Churchill counselled, delayed or denied the chance for complete independence, she woulrl. likely have had a costly struggle on her hands-such as the French have in Indo-China and the Dutch in Indonesia." INDONESIA New resolution approved on Indonesian situation The United Nations Security Council voted seven to one in favor of.a United States resolution for new action on th~ Indonesian case. The lone opposing vote was cast by Poland. The Soviet Union, Columbia,, and Syria abstained from voting. The resolution called upon both the Netherlands and the Republic of Indone3ia to consult directly with each other, or through the Security Council's good offices committee, on means of implementing the Security CouncWs ceasefire order. It also contains a clause warning both parties that incitement to hostile action, as well as hostile action, will be considered a violation of the order of the Security Council. What is the significance of the news 7 The new resolution orders both the Dutch and the Indonesians to observe the rules set by the cease.-fire order of the Security Council on August 1, 1947. The new resolution waJ occasioned by 182 * the failure of Holland and Indoneeia to comply with the first resolution of the Security Council. A consular commission's report dated October 14, 1947, showed that in both countries the resolution of Auguot 1, 1947, had not been fully followed. The new resolution waa plade on the belief that, if the United Nations must gain respect,. it must see to it that its decisions (in this case the order of the Security Council) are complied with; otherwise, the world would lose faith in it. FRANCE France shows its political faith The result of the municipal electio11s in France is significant. Before the municipal elections, the political lineup was very complex. There were confuoing political alliances. Amid this confusion, a new political party, the RFP (rally of the French People) headed by the famed soldier, resi3tance leader, and hero of France, Gen. Charles de Gaulle, appeared. TO the surprise of the victcr ry....sure Communists, the RFP won a smashing victory. What Is the significance of the news? The municipal electioD3 held the key to the political lineup of France. The real issue in the election was either Communism or anti-Communism. France was at a crossroad. To the surprise of the world, many voters who belonged to the RFP voted for candidates under the party of Gen. Charles de Gaulle. The Communbts received a rebuff. The election returns showed that the RFP is holding 40% of the popular vote in France. The RFP won 52 of the 90 seats in the municipal council. The Communists won 25 seats and the Socialists 8. As a result of the muni· cipal electionJ, Gen. Charles de Gaulle became the top political figure in France. He is opposed to Communism. He is likewise opposed to the French Constitution because it does not give Current Events Review, Dec. l 94 7 strong powers to t}-,e executive. And now should the present French government fail, very likely PreJident Auriol mllY call De Gaulle to form a new cabinet. With De Gaulle in power, the struggle between Communism and Democracy in France will not only be hard but complicated. ITALY Christi.an Democratic vote /oils Communism Italy, like France, showed its political lineup. In the recent municipal elections held in Italy, the Christian DemocL·atic party under the leadership of Premier Alcide de Gasperi won with 204,000 votes as against the total of 208,000 votes cast for all other oppol•ing parties including the Communist party. What is the significance of the news? France and Italy are the two big countrieJ in Europe greatly desired by Russia to be won over to the side of communism. The French victory under Gen. Charles de Gaulle temporarily stoppdd the advance of communism in France. The victory prevented the Communists from getting control of the police force in many districts. Likewise, the victory of the Christian Democratic party in Italy shows that the Italians are still against communism. The party attracted many voters who formerly belonged to the rightists. Its firm anti-Communist lineup brought about its victory. The "People's Bloc" of the Communist and other left-wing parties, nevertheleJs, are still employing every means to control Italy. LATIN AMERICA Luxury imports banned in Mexico In order to secure a favorable balanc~ of trade the President of Mexico issue<l International News a decree laying an embargo on nonessential imports, such aJ, cars, radio:.~. refrigerators, washing machines, jewelry~ furs, clothing, pianos, and cosmetics. What is the significance of the news 7 The ban on luxury is expected to accomplish two things. First, it wlll bring a favorable balance in the foreign trade of Mexico. Since the end of the war, the dollar reserves of Mexico ha 'le shrunk from $~50,000,000 to $200,000,000. Second, the decree is expected to give impetus to native industries. An excellent example of cooperation The health agreement between Ecua .. dor and Peru haJ been cited as an· excelleiit example of international cooperation. The main purpose of the health agreement is to help solve the health problems of peoples on both sides of the bord~r of the two countries. What Is the significance of the news? This health agreement is an encouraging demon3tration of how sincerity of purpose may foster mutual friendship. It is significant to note that there will be not only cooperation between the two countries but also exchange of personnel for mutual advan .. tage. Peruvi.ans to enjoy the bt>ne/its of cooperatives To further promote the welfare of th<! people, the Peruvian government issued a decree requiring all government agencies and enterprises to establish consum· er cooperatives. The cooperatives are intended to keep down prices of prim.a commodities and to make the consumers share the profits of the cooperatives. Wllat is the significance of the news? The step taken by the Peruvian gov· ernment iJ a concrete example of a sin* 183 cere effort of the government to look after the welfare of its people. So that the people may be assured of the benefits, the government decided to provide the capital for the consumer cooperatives. The people, however, are encouraged to buy shares. Communism receives rebuff in Brazil and Chile Relations between Chile and Yugoslavia became strained last October. Two Yugoslav minor diplomats were expell~ from Chile for labor agitation. And then, the Yugoslav government· news agency, Tanjung, insinuated that the foreign policy of Chile was being guided by the United States. President Santiago Gabriel Gonzalez Videla of Chile objected to the insinuation, and cut off diplomatic relations with Yugoslavia on the grounds that the Y.ugoslavian Communists were undermining the political independence of Chile through their diplomatic representatives in Chile. The government •of Brazil also broke off diplomatic relations with Russia on account of an editorial published by Moscow's Izvestia insulting President Enrico Gaspar Dutra. The Brazilian government at first demanded an apolo-gy from Russia, but Russia ignored the demand. Consequently, the Brazilian government broke off diplomatic relations with Russia. What is the significance of the rteWB? There is a growing apprehenston for the inroads of Communism in many Latin American countries. The breaking off of the diplomatic relations of Chile and Brazil shows that these two countries would go to the limit to fight out Communism. The question now re· mains whether or not Argentina will join the Latin American bloc against the Reds. These three countries f6rm the ABC powers ·in South America. They are the three major powers in 184 * Latin America. President Domingo Peron of Argentina i.s certainly against anti-communism. Peron's policies are in contrast to those of Videla and Dut-ra. There is a possibility that President Gabriel Gonzalez Videla might suggest the outlawing of the Commr •. 1ist Party in Chile. President Dutra haa gone farther. He has made the Brazil· ian Superior Electoral Court declare the illegality of the Communist party. Study Hel~s 1. What are the significant findings of Loy W. Henderson on Greece? 2. Should the emperor of Japan have the same social status as the common people? Why? 3. Why does the United Stales desire the economic recovery at. all its occupied areas? 4. Lt. Gen. Wedemeyer suggested that U.S. aid should only be given to "deserving Chinese." Why? 5 . Do you think Britain made a wise decision in giving Burma independence? Why? 6. Why was a new resolution issued by the Security Council on the Indonesian situation 1 7. Do you think the victory of Gen. Charles de Gaulle significant? Why? - 8. Italy, too, is fighting very ha...1 to defeat Communism. Do you think the results of the municipal. election is a sign that Italy is against communism? Why? 9. Do you think the decree on banning imports on luxury in Mexico wise? Why? Would you favor the banning of luxury goods in the Philippines? Why? 10. What is the significance of the health program agreement between Ecuador and Peru? 11. Is the government sponsorship of consumer cooperatives in Peru wise? Why? 12. Do you think an anti-Red bloc should be formed in Latin America? Why? Current Events Review, Dec • .1947 The Philippines and the World-Philippines represented in top army school The Philippine Republic is one of the few countries that have representative11 in the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth. The sisnificance of this privilege may be deduced from the statement of Gen. Jacob L. Devers who addressed the student offi~ers. He said: "This is the school of the Army, operated under the Ground Forces. The leadership for all our other schools starts here - the coordination starts here ..•.. " Philippine permit sought by oil concern Negotiations for an oil development exploration lease in the Philippines are under way between the Standard-Vacuum Oil Company and the Philippine government. The Standard Oil Company (New Jersey) and the Socony-Vacuum Oil Company, Inc., have been interested in the exploration of oil deposits in the Philippines since ten years ago. P. W. Parker, company chairman, said that the Company would give the fullest consideration to the best interest of the Filipino people. Philippine-United States relations enter new era Stuart Lillico of the Washington Star recently discussed the new relations of the Philippines and the United States. He wrote: "Entirely without fanfare-and almo3t unnoticed by many persona vitally concerned-the relations between the United States and the infant Philippine Republic have entered a new era. The change is more remarkable because it was worked out deliberately by a National Affairs group of experts representing the tw) governments and has been accepted by both administrations. "Briefly, the change is this: The United State3 no longer will finance thl? Philippine government. In'stead, Manila will ·pay its oWn way from its internal resources. Fundamentally, the difference is in its philosophy. This country (America) is dropping "its old pa· temalism toward the islands and is adopting a more normal nation-to-nation relation." ThiS description of the new Philippine-American relation is given in a little-known report recently filed with President Truman by Secretary of the Treasury Snyder in his capacity as chairman of the national advisory council on international monetary and financial problems which controls American loans and granh to, foreign nations. Elizalde successfully accom· plishes mission in Europe Joaquin M. Elizalde, Ambassador of the Philippine Republic to the United States, successfully finished his Europ.ean mission in a few weeks. While in London, he attended the meeting of the board of governors of the International Bank and lll:onetary Fund. He signed the protocol of the world sugar counc~l and also took part in the discussions of the committee of experts to determine avai1able sugar stocks in the world. He observed that the Philippines has a considerable busineJs with Great Britain and other European countries in hei:np, copra, and lumber; but he said that he does not know if the European powers could pay since they have insufficient dollar buying power. Of his mission, only the negotiations with the bondhold* 185 ers of the Manila Railroad were not completed. Philippine Army engineers to train in U.S. Three Philippine Anny engineers sailed for the United States for a twoyear period of engineering training with the Corps of Engineers, United States Army. The three trainees are the first to be sent under the Philippine Rehabilitation Act. The three trainees selected by President Manuel A. Roxas are Major Salvador T. Villa, Major Perfecto M. Vasquez, and Major Leopoldo R. Relunia. Marshall Plan to benefit the Philippines The Philippines would benefit from the Marshall Plan for the economic recovery of Europe. This view was given by Philippine delegate to the economic commission of the United Nations, Miguel Cuaderno, in his speech before that body. He said that the economic recoVery of Europe, if carried out succe3sfully by the Marshall Plan, will also bring abOut the early recovery of other regions in the world, including the Philippines. Philippine Republic is rededicated to peace In his speech delivered in honor of the formal transfer of the historic Corregidor to the Philippine government, President Roxas rededicated the Philippine Republic to the cause of peace. 0 We will work for peace," said the President, "for an enduring peace, for a just peace, for all peoples, for all victor.s and vanquished alike. We will continue to struggle for li)>erty to push back the frontiers of freedom-an expanding dynamic liberty-not only for ourselves but for all men. We will strive to free our selves and others from 186. want and fear, and to promote the welfare and happiness of every man. We will support the peaceful efforts of all nations in all climes to be free and to allow them to set up government.a of their choice.'' The Philippines and the United Nations Amba3sador Carlos P. Romulo, permanent delegate to the United Nations la$hed back at the Russian delegate, Andrei Gromyko, who criticized the Philippines for not taking active part in the Indonesian question. Romulo said that the Philippines had always advocated and would always advocate the freedom of all liberty-loving peoples. He also attacked Ru3sia for her anti-war-mongering proposal. He compared the Soviet proposal to a "hydra-headed mon~ ster" inspired by an "angry and spiteful motive." The Russian waT-mongering proposal was not passed by the General Assembly. Following up hi> defense of the stand of the Philippines on the Indonesian question, Romulo rapped the Dutch for not observ.ing the ceaee-fire order of the Security Council, and he accused the U. N. consular committee-eomposed of the · consuls of BataVia, United States, Britain, China, Australia, France, an:I Belgium-<>f partiality to the Dutch in their supervision of the cease-fire order of .the Security Council. A Philippine amendment to the United States proposal leading to Korea's freedom was approved by. the General Assembly's 57~nation political committee. The amendment runs: '4all members of the United Nations should refrain from interference in the affairs of th~ Korean people during the interim period preparatory to the establishment of Korean independence." Russia's announcement to boycott the American-spon.sored year round session of the 57-nation "Little Assembly" wa.a (Please turn to the ne:rt page) Current Events Review, Dee. 1947 Why is the New ••• (Cont:nued from page 162) perseverance, and patience. Columnist Frank R. Kent said: "It is clear that the purpose of this propaganda is to divert us from our great objective which is international cooperation in the cause of permanent peace. That is our main business, and not engage in violent name-calling argumenb:. Nothing should be permitted to interfere with that." Frank Kingdom wrote in the New York Post: "Our answer to the Communist resolution should be the abandonment of our negative approach. It is not enough to be merely anti-Communist. We should seize the initiative. We can restore our influence 8.nd preserve democracy in Europe by cooperating with its historical democratic partiP.s to create political and economic systems matching peoples' experiences and needs as they know them.,, The Philippines and the (Continued /"om page 186) • criticized by - Romulo. Romulo was joined by Australia and other nation3 in his protest. It was observed that Russia's attitude is a violation of the United Nations Charter. The Philippines appealed to the Far Eastern Commis:;ion to expedite action on the scaling of reparation claims from Japan. The appeal was made by Romulo in a session of the 11-nation commission. The bill presented by the Philippines for Japanese reparation claima amounts to $4,198,674,244. The Philippines through Carlos P. Romulo appea.led to both the United States and RW1Bia to heal their differences to hasten, an enduring world peace. The appeal was made in the General Assembly's 57-nation political commit-. tee. National Affairs Where do the United ••. (Continued from page 188) Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. An editor of a well-known American weekly recently commented: "All around the world, the U.S. and Russi'l are pressing solidly up against each other. If there is any more shoving, trouble can result." D6 you believe in this statement? Why? 2. Do you believe in the statement that the conflict between the U.S. and the Soviet fa delaying the restoration of world peace'! 3. Cah you give several 1 reasons why both Russia and the United States are trying to strengthen their positions around the world? 4. Do you think that if a world police is establi~hed by the United N ationa, peace would be re3tored? Why? 6 . What is the significance of the division of the world into two worlds? ~ 6. Why should the two great powers of the world settle their differences 1 References 1. "U.S. as World Policeman," The United States News, Vol. XXII, No. 15 (April 11, 1947) pp, 19-21. 2. Text of Inter"American Treaty for Defense. 8. Campbell, John C. - TM United State.• in World Affairs 1945-1947, pp. 152-305. 4. Moore, Harriet L. - Soviet Far Eastern Policy 1931-1945, pp. 126-150. 5. Gurian, W.-"Permanent Feature.a of Soviet Foreign Policy," The Year Book of World Affairs, 1947, pp. 1-39. 6. Burnham, James. - The Struggle for th,,, World (1947), pp. 90-113; 161199. 7. Morrell, Sydney.->-Sph4'rea of Influence (1946), pp. 16-20. * 187 Science Marches On-Hamly body temperature recorder A new device which records a patient's temperature in a matter of sec--0nds was recently displayed at the con· vention of the American Hospital As.sociation. This device is composed of tiny '"ires which register blood heat when the recorder is placed on any part of the body. A graph device is connected to the wires to insure a permanent and continuing record. The inatru .. .ment, which can be plugged into an or· dinary electric socket, is already in use in some American hospitals. ·Operation restores normal hand movements A movie showing an operation to re~ store movements to hands left useless by injury to the radial nerve was recently presented before the International College of Surgeons which met at Chicago. The operation involves the transplanting of three tendons, which are so •hifted as to enable the patient to control thumb movement, the side-to-side movement of the hand, the extending of the fingers, and the lifting of the wrist. Since the three tendons, however, work with an entirely different set of nerves, the brain has to learn new pathways. To insure this learning, the physician applies physical therapy. This type of operation was extensively practiced during the last global war. Vitamin "A" now synthesized Vitamin "A:' has been successfully synthesized by the Rochester distillation products labo;ratory for commercial .pur188. poses. Vitamin 11 A" is essential for proper growth and vision. It was the first vitamin to be discovered, but the last major vitamin to be synthesized. Hitherto, the only commercial source ·of Vitamin 11A" is oil extracted from the livers of cod fish, dogfish, and soup-fin shark. Fluorine prevents juvenile tooth decay The New York Department of Tiealtb, which has been conducting the experiment on the use of fluorine for the prevention of the decay of children's teeth, announces it has found an effective way of using fluorine for the prevention of juvenile tooth decay. Since the use of fluorine in 1945, there has been a marked decrease in the susceptibility of the city's children to tooth decay. By adding fluorine to the water supply, a !)Umber of children whsaliva contained more than 20,000 decayproducing germs a cubic centimeter decreased from 63.5 per cent to 55.2 per cent after one year and 47.3 per cent after two years. The count of 20,000 germs a cubic centimeter or more is considered the danger point for tooth decay, and the count of less than 100 me&nll immunity. In Kingston, New York, where fluorine was not added to the water supply, there was no appreciable change in the germ count of the saliva of children. New technique for cotton fabrics The new technique of making r.otton fabrics resistant to wrinkles opens new uaes for this important fiber. The resistance is produced by treating the cotton with the same synthetic resin tba_t makes woolen fabrics washable. Current Events Review, Dec. 1947 Ultra-violet light in classrooms The irradiation of classrooms with ultra-violet light checks the spread of measles, according to Dr. William F. Wells, associate professor of research in airborne infection at the University of Pennsylvania medical school. This was the thesis of Dr. Wells' report on the results -of hiS nine-year experiment on classroom lighting to the American Public Health Association at its 76th annual meeting. Dr. Wells discovered that, In classrooms which were treated with ultra-violet light, the number of measles cases was four-fifths less than that in rooms which were not treated with the germ-killing light. Operation makes new arm joint possible It has been found possible to create a new joint in the arm amputated above the elbow, which enables the patient to perform tasks. The operation severs, but not removes, a short section <>f the bones of the upper arm to form a short distal stump. This stump is used as the base for the joint. The operation preserves as much flesh and muscle as possible. To insure non-union of bone ends, after the operation, the bone ends are burnt with electrocautery. The same muscles that normally control the natural forearm are made to operate the distal stump. After 14 days in a cast, the active movement of the arm is commenced. In some cases, a 90-degree range of flexibility was possible. This flexion enables the patient to perform tasks which, otherwise, would be impossible without an arm 'joint, such as dressing one's self. Plan to banish tooth decay Dr. L. S. Fosdick of Northwestern University presented a scientific plan for total er8.dicatio'n of tooth decay hcfore the American Public Health Association Modern Science Why is a Declaration • (Continued from page 171) ARTICLE 9 "Everyone has the right to a decent living; to work and advance his wellbeing; to health, education and social security, There shall be equal opportunity for all to participate in the economic and cultural life of the community. ARTICLE 10 "Everyone, everywhere in the world, is entitled to the human rights and fundamental freedoms set forth in· this declaration without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion. The full exetj!ise -0f these rights requires recognition of the rights of others and protection by Jaw of the freedom, general welfare and lecurity of all." (Special release of the United States Information Service) Study Helps 1. Read all the rights enumerated. Compare them with the Bill of Right• found in our Constitution, What rights in the draft prepared by the United States are found in our Constitution? 2. Explain in your own words the meaning of each right. 3, Discuss the importance of each right. 4. What rights are new to you? 5, Give several reasons why the United Nations decided to prepare an international Bill of Human Ri~hts. meeting at Atlantic City, He said that tooth decay could be totally eradicated by controlling its source-sugar. By adding a simple, tasteless chemical to all sugar in the course of its manufacture, we can totally banish tooth decay, The thirty-one chemicals which will be used in the sugar have been tested to be harmless and effective. The best of these chemicals is glycerol aldehyde, a kind of sugar which is a natural <'onstituent of all muscles. The chemical mixes readily with sugar. (Please turn to page 192) * 189 Special Report on the Activities of the United Nations What is the Mission of the ECAFE? The Economic and Social Council of the United Nations established the Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East (ECAFE) on March 28, 1947. The ECAFE is delegated to make a study of the problems of the devastated areas in the Far East and to work out their solutions. Prior to the establishment of the ECAFE, the survey had already been started by the Working Group for Asia and the Far East. The first meeting of the Working Group for Asia was held in London from July 29 to September 13, 1946. In its meeting held on August 9, 1946, the Working Group decided to make a preliminary survey of territories devastated by the war. The Working Group assembled again at Lake Success, New York, on February 14, 1947, to study the factual material on war devastation and to make specific recommendations. The Working Group's report was submitted to the Economic and Social Council .on March 7, 1947. The initial members of the ECAFE are Australia, China, France, India, the Netherlands, Philippines, Siam, Russia, the United States, and Britain. The ECAFE's geographical area includes initially British North Borneo, Brunei, Sarawak, Burma, Ceylon, China, India, the Indo-Chinese Federation, Hongkong, the Malayan Union and Singapore, the Netherlands Indie~, the Philippines, and Siam. What are the main functions of the ECAFE? First, to initiate and promote measures for the economic reconstruction of the Far East. It must raise the level of regional economic activity and main190. tain and strengthen the economic relations among the Far Eastern countries and with .the rest of the world. Second, to make or sponsor investigations and studies of economic and technological problems and developments both within individual countries and on a regional basis. Third, to undertake, or sponsor, the.collection, evaluation, and dissemination of economic technological and sta .. tistical information .. The first meeting of the ECAFE was held in Shanghai from June 16 t~ 25, 194 7. The next meeting will be held in Baguio late in November, 1947. Study Helps 1. Examine the purposes of the ECAFE. Do you think there is a justifiable reason for its creation? Why? 2. Is the reconstruction of the Far East related to the aims and purposes of the United Nations? Why? World Political Situation In his second report to the General Assembly, Secretary-General Trygve Lie, gave a clear picture of the world's political situation. He said: "Of outstanding significance is the fact that the main treaties still remain undrafted and unsigned, and that no agreement has yet been reached even on some of their fun~ damental principles. The importance of these treaties, not only to the future· of the United Nations, but to the future of the whole world, cannot be over-empha4 sized. It is clear that in the political, and in particular in the economic sphere they are a prerequisite of a reconstructed world order." Current Events Review, Dec. 194 7 Study Helps 1. Why is delay in the conclusion of peace treaties with the defeated nations significant for the world? 2. Explain how conflicting ideologies and philosophies delay the conclusion of the peace treaties. International Conference on Freedom of Information The Economic and Social Council scheduled the International Conference on Freedom of Information and of the Press to begin on March 23, 1948. The outline of the committee structure of the Conference and the detailed provisional agenda were approved. The pro .. visional agenda contain ( 1) funda '!llental principles and (2) practical measures to carry out the principles. One of the principles approved for discussion on the responsibilities of the press is uto combat any ideologies whose nature could en .. danger· human ri![hts and freedoms and to combat forces which incite war, by removing bellicose influences from me .. dia of information." Study Helps 1. Why is there a need for an mternational conference on freedom of .information and of the press? 2. How can freedom of information and of the press contribute to world peace? World Plans to Combat Disease The Interim Commission of the WHO (World Health Organization) has mapped out a positive action program to combat worldwide public health menaces; as, tuberculosis, malaria, and influenza. It has decided to send small demonstration units to countries asking assistance to initiate intensive programs of "BGC'' vaccinations. The "BGC" is now used in. several countries as preventive vaccination against tuberculosis. It has also World Affairs decided to hold an international conference of experts in the use of strentomy .. cin in order to evaluate and standardize its use and, to publish reports on new anti-malarials so that all governmente may receive the benefits from the researches done for WHO. And in order to make more effective the control of epidemics, the WHO will conduct intensive study of the present methods of controlling them and will adopt all measures that bring about their full control, such as the use of disinfecting aircraft. Study Helps 1. Why is the work of the World Health Organization important? 2. Why is it necessary to evaluate and staitdardize the use of streptomycin t (Streptomycin is a drug made from com .. mon earth mold.) 3. Why is the publication of all reports on antiemalarials important? 4. What is the significance nf the move to cope with the disease-control problems arising from the extensive and rapid development of air, land, and sea transportation? World Bank Makes R11port The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development was created it, 1944 to continue the work of the UNRRA. Unlike the UNRRA, however, it will not give relief. It will meet longterm needs; as, loans for rebuilding factories, mines, railroads, and other productive facilities. In the giving of loans, the Bank has given preference to Europe, because the restoration of European production will have immediate effects on the rest of the world. Loans have been made to France, the Nether.. lands, Denmark, and Luxembourg. The total loans issued was $497,000,000. According to John McCloy, president of the Bank, bottlenecks in the reconstruction of Europe are food, fuel, and manpower. (Please turn to the next page) • 191 What are Needed ••• (Continued /Tom page 170) only with the assurance of a continued flow of goods from the American continent; if that flow should cease the result would be calamitous. Europe's dollar resources are running low. One country after another is already being forced by lack of dollars to cut down vital imports of food and raw materials from the American continent, If nothing is done, a catastrophe will develop as stocks become exhausted. If too little is done and if it is done too late, it will be impossible to provide the momentum needed to get the program under way. Life in Europe will become increasingly unstable and uncertain; industries will grind to a gradual halt for lack of materials and fuel, and the food supply of Europe will diminish and begin to disappear. In the last analysis, the extemal means of recovery can, in largest measure, only come from the United States, which has by its aBBistsnce in the last two years already rescued Europe from collapse and chaos." Exercises lo Develop Thinking 1. The issue of the Current Events Review for November, 1947, featured an article on why Europe is split into two worlds. This split became official when the 16 ·countries of Westem Europe deeided to work out a program for the economic recovery of Europe, and Russia together with her satellites openly and . aggressively opposed the program, Do you think the plan submitted by the Committee on European Economic Cooperation will restore the economy of Europe? Why? 2. Why should the participating countries cooperate in all lines of production? 3. Why is there a need for relaxation · in import i-estrictions? Do you think the setting up of ·a customs union important! Why? 192 * Special Report ••• (l;ontinued /Tom pags 191) Study Helps 1. Why are European countries i;ven the first preference in the extension of Joans! · 2. The Bank commented that the reconstruction of Europe is delayed because of the (1) serious effect of world-disrupted trade, (2) insufficient production of food and fuel, and (8) almost total dislocation of industry, govemment, and people. Do you believe that these factors delay rehabilitation? Why T Science Marches ••• (Continusd from page 189) It is believed that the chemical would stop tooth decay by checking ferment which causes acid to be formed from sugar in the mouth. It is this acid which, If not promptly neutralized, breaks down the tooth enamel. (Special releases of the United States Information Service) 4. What do you think of the plan for collective action of the 16 countries on their special problems? 6. If a nation buys more than what it sells to another nation, what would result to the trade of that nation? 6. Why is it neceBBary for the 16 participating countries to expand their exports! 7. Why should the free flow of goods from the United States benefit the European countries? Reference 1. "Marshall Plan Report IBBued bJ 16 Countries," Special Release No, 496 (September 26, 1947), of the United States Information Service. Current Events R~view, Dee. 1947 EXCELLENT IS OUR RATING W HEN you read the CURl<ENT EVENTS REVIEW you will understand world developments because it presents and analyzes news and their significance. The magazine completes and makes up-to-date the study of history and other social science subjects. The Dh-ector of the United States Information Service 1·ate• the CURREN11 EVENTS REVIEW as an EXCELLENT publication. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of Interhational Information and Cultural Affairs . ~Ir. D. R. Manlapaz, Publisher Current Events Review 123-125 Reten Sampaloc, Manila Dear Mr. Manlapaz: December 24, 1946 I have just seen for the first time a copy of your "Current EYents Review" for high school students. This seems to me an excellent publication for keeping your schools informed of world developments. We have now put your publication in our regular release list. I should be glad to furnish any other cooperation that we possibly can in providing your readers with information. 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