Dokumen Kongres IV WIDF, Wina, 1-5 Juni 1958

=== [PDF page 1] === CONGRESS OF THE WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FEDERATION VIENNA, JUNE Ist—5th, 1958 DOCUMENTS THE LIBRARY OF THE NOV 1 6 1958 UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS === [PDF page 2] === Conditions which will enable woman to v society as mother, worker and citizen fulfil her ro of Children and tcation in a spirit nd Friendship t ildren’s Day, 1958 Council ¢ man Rights Commission of i Nations c the I Organisatior ommi Report of the Standing Orders tion of the W.I.D.F. Constitu === [PDF page 3] === seid 5 aA a ye eae 14.044 ? LON Pi a Pe a Gas [Unreadable] === [PDF page 4] === Extract from the REPORT Presented by Madame Eugenie COTTON President of the W.I.D.F. on the “Role and Responsibility of Women in the World Today and the Tasks of the W.I.D.F.” The opening of the IVth Congress of the W.I.D.F. on June Ist coincides with International Children’s Day, which is being celebrated in many countries. This will certainly have a favourable effect on our work. On a day such as this, all our tasks appear particularly clear to us. We want above all, to preserve the life which we brought forth; we want to unite against the gravest danger threatening mankind at the present hour, against the horrors of the atomic danger and in order to put an end to wars, so that all conflicts may be settled peacefully. These are our most cherished aspirations. These great tasks, however, should not divert us from the multitude of problems with regard to the health, education, vocational training and happiness of our children, which also require our attention. All women are aware of the fact that they are responsible to a particularly great extent, for all matters regarding children. The question arises as to whether we can at present cope with all these responsibilities. That is something to which we should give more serious consideration than ever before at this Congress, where we shall affirm that we do not want to be only those to bring children into the world and to care for them during their first years. We want to be the teachers and the guiding light for our sons and daughters. This is an entirely new conception of the tasks of a mother to which not only women, but also families and society in a very large number of countries must be introduced. On all continents and at all levels we want to educate women who are capable of adapting themselves (to the great changes which are at present taking place in the world, and this in is fact, what we wished to propose to the IVih Congress of the W.LD.F. in selecting as its main problem “The role and responsibility of women in the world today.” The W.LD.F. is today particularly aware of the importance of its role in the world. More than ever before it wishes to prove itself worthy of the confidence of women of all continents, by responding to their hopes and by efficiently coordinating their efforts. <4 Madame Eugenie cotton, President of the W.1.D.F., presenting the report to the full meeting. === [PDF page 5] === It is clear that women in their efforts must at all times take into account the particular situation in the countries in which they live and of the general situation. That is why to begin with we should give a brief survey of this situation. World events are at present dominated by two major problems. — on the one hand there is the atomic problem with all the implications arising with regard to human destiny from the use of atomic energy and the utilisation ot the other remarkable discoveries of modern science; — on the other hand there is the legitimate striving of the peoples for economic independence, as emphatically underlined by the Afro-Asian Solidarity Conference held in Cairo, and subsequently by the Conferences of Accra and Tangier. These two main problems and the developments which they have brought about will be studied in the course of the conferences to take place within the Congress. In this report I shall above all emphasise the aspects of these problems which concern women of the world who are preoccupied with the task of finding a solution. For the last three years an international committee against A and H bombs, composed of scholars and outstanding personalities of world renown, capable of informing and influencing public opinion and governments have held) a meeting each year on August 6th in a Japanese town. Eleven women representatives of the Japanese people are touring the world te make known the horror of the atomic menace. Their voices have been joined by those of travellers who have visited Hiroshima and obtained some idea of the cruelty of a disease which dealt brutal blows to some and is maliciously creeping upon others, claiming its victims twelve years after the bombs were dropped. Increasing numbers of scholars, physicists and biologists are protesting against the production and testing of bombs, which to an alarming degree increase the quantity of radio-activity in the air, the rain water, the grass and milk. The peoples everywhere are on the alert; and ever since March 3lst when the Soviet government unilaterally decided to stop thermonuclear tests, protests and demonstrations have become increasingly powerful in all countries, and especially in Great Britain and America, who possess the bomb, there have been powerful protests against the tests. Doctor Schweitzer, a great benefactor of mankind, who has devoted his life to curing leprosy in Equatorial Africa, has called upon the peoples of the world to intensify their protests and in his last message he called upon mothers to make their voices heard. Numerous protests have already been made by women’s organisations at international meetings, and we have all been moved by the forceful appeal of Mrs. Lueders, senior president of the Bundestag, who said among other things: “Women, do not wait to be called upon once more to tend the wounded, to put out fires and to bury the dead! Be the active conscience of the living!” The other event which modifies the relations between states the world over is the struggle and successful attainment of an ever growing number of countries to independence. It is not only political independence that the peoples are claiming at present; many. countries, apparently free, are in fact subjected to terrible economic === [PDF page 6] === pressure: this can be seen in the Middle East and South America. Everywhere politically and economically oppressed people are trying to liberate themselves. The participation of women is of the greatest importance to all these struggles. And it can be seen everywhere that the liberation of their country is directly followed by their real emancipation. This was eloquenily shown at the great Afro-Asian Conference which took place in Cairo in December 1957. One can say that it made evident for Africa and Asia what is currently called all the world over “the emancipation of women”. A woman, Mrs. Rameshwari Nehru, was elected chairman of the conference and played a great part there, and problems concerning the conditions of women in Africa and Asia occupied an important place in all the discussions and resolutions. The resolutions passed corresponded to the desires of the women of the countries which are still dependent as well as to the desires of those in the countries which have recently won their independence and who are working actively to improve the status of women, to combat epidemics and to fight illiteracy. Already the women of Tunisia, Ghana and Egypt have made great progress. In India, the National Federation of Women is engaged in informing mothers and wives about their possibilities and rights, and active members of Parliament are getting the necessary laws passed to make their efforts successful. With great courage and in spite of many difficulties, the Indonesian Women’s Movement has succeeded in considerably improving the material and cultural lives of women and children. The example of the women of the people’s republies of Viet-Nam, Korea and China is a great encouragement to them. It is wonderful to follow in the important report given by Madame Chang Yun at the 3rd Congress of the Women’s Federation of the People’s Republic of China in September 1957 the progress made in all spheres since the birth of the Republic. Great encouragement has been given to the women of the whole world by the example of the Soviet women. Those of us who had the privilege of atitending the Seminar on the rights of women in Moscow in 1956, were able to judge the important positions which Soviet women hold in the political, social, economic and cultural life of their country and the high positions which are open te them. The various delegations which have visited Poland, Rumania, Bulgaria, Hungary and Czechoslovakia have also had many opportunities of meeting women ministers, workers in the fields and factories, directors of factories and laboratories, chairmen of collective farms, ete. a Meeting with more difficulties, but with firm steps, the women have continued to advance in all the other countries as well. And only recently in Great Britain, Professor Harland declared that the advancement of women was, in his eyes the most striking event that he had seen in the course of his career. The same is the case in all the other countries of Europe and America, and when looking through an Italian or French magazine, or one issued in Argentina, Chile, Canada or the United States, one frequently comes across women’s signatures who have the highest university titles, and titles in the field of Science, medicine, law, industry or politics. There is no doubt that the part Played by women in the world today has everywhere grown more important. Right from the beginning, the W.I.D.F. has worked to participate in this advancement, not with a view to helping only a select few to rise socially, but === [PDF page 7] === with the principal aim of preparing all women to play with dignity the three fundamental roles assigned to them in the modern world, as mothers, workers and citizens. Important meetings have been arranged which sometimes go far beyond the scope of the W.I.D.F. Such was the case of the International Conference for the Defence of Children, held in Vienna in 1952, which united mother, doctors and teachers of the whole world. On that occasion the rights of the children of the world to life, health and happiness were recognised. We could, without doubt, still learn from this conference, whose symbol was three smiling children, yellow, black and white, all three seeming to understand each other wonderfully well. More recently, in Lausanne, at the World Congress of Mothers in July 1955, the W.LD.F. called on all the women to defend their children against war. More than 1,000 women from 66 countries took part in this congress. That was one of the most beautiful moments in the life of our association, when we were able to measure the great strength created amongst the women through the love they have for their children, the responsibility which motherhood gives them and the necessity to unite to prevent war. Now the question is raised: what is expected of the W.LD.F. at the moment of its [Vth Congress? What must we do here to live up to these expectations? It is apparent from all the suggestions which have been sent in by the national organisations, that it is necessary to create conditions for the woman of 1958, which will permit her to fulfil her duties defined by the three terms: mother, worker and citizen. We must remember that less than a century ago, the normal opinion in the world was that the woman was destined to be a mother and housewife, that it was unnecessary for her to study or learn a trade, or take part in the public life of her country. Today facts bave proved that women are capable of studying, of having a profession and of bearing the responsibilities of community life. If we are not mistaken the woman of 1958 does not love her children any less than the woman of 1858. On the contrary, she has a more exalted conception of her role as a mother which she does not wish to limit to simply bringing her children into the world and caring for them during their first years. Certain governments have already understood this. Madame Kovrigina, Minister of Public Health in the USSR, recalled in the course of a conference during the Seminar on the Rights of Women in September 1956, that since its inception the government of her country had proclaimed that the protection of mothers and children was a fundamental obligation of the state. The 90 participants at the Seminar who had come to Moscow from 39 countries of the world and who belonged to widely diverging women’s organisations, had been able to see how the women workers in the town and in the country are given effective aid through the existence of numerous creches and nurseries. The W.LD.F. should apply itself to this problem which is of prime importance to the life of women in all countries, In the first place it is cruel and unjust that a woman is not able to develop according to her aptitudes just like a man. It is no longer necessary for her to remain an inferior being, a worker or a second-class citizen in any country. === [PDF page 8] === We must make an end to the discriminations which condemn many more women than men to illiteracy, which restrict their professional development and which prevent them from pursuing the trade of their choice. The W.LD.F. should energetically support woman’s right to work, a right which gives her economic independence, is a factor in her emancipation and guarantees her dignity. Through work she takes part more directly in social life and her activity in the home increases with regard to her husband and children. It is only just that women should have the same opportunities as men of becoming qualified workers. This central problem, this new conception of the role of women will be the special theme of one of the three conferences planned for the present Congress, with the title “The creation of conditions which will enable woman to fulfil her role in society as mother, worker and citizen.” Furthermore a conference on the right of children and youth to education in a spirit of peace and friendship between peoples is planned. This is one of the problems which most concern mothers at the present time. Often owing to the fact that they were prevented from studying the subjects they would like to have studied they see a sort of revenge in being able to provide their children with education. They know for example that in modern life illiterz s a real handicap which we must hasten to remedy, as much in the case of girls as in that of boys. In the family the mother ought to be the first person to champion equal rights for women by putting her daughters on an equal footing with her sans, and by not shielding the boys from those thousand petty household chores which are usually reserved for the girls. With the rapid progress of science the level of knowledge of both men and women should rise constantly, In the 18th century for example there was no occupation which demanded a knowledge of electricity, but now it would be impossible to cope with modern appliances without some elementary notions on electricity. The modern man and woman ought to know where atomic energy eomes from, why it is important, what benifits it could bestow on humanity and what terrible dangers it could cause. Soon, in order to explain to their children what a sputnik is, mothers will have to understand the laws of mechanics and the properties of new fuels. The level of knowledge of the simplest man will bave to be raised continuously. So the women are quite right to demand that their children both boys and girls should have the right to education. A third conference will deal with the great problem of peace, which is so vital to women. Now that science has placed fabulous sources of energy into the hands of mankind, it is more urgent than ever to prevent wars where modern weapons are used, powerful enough to destroy entire countries. Japanese women scholars will give you testimony of the atomic bombings and of the evil effects of nuclear experiments, and you will be in a better position to understand the urgency of supporting the great initiative of the Soviet Union in its unilateral ‘decision to dispense with atomic tests. Great Britain and the United States must be urged to take similar steps without delay. The women of the whole === [PDF page 9] === world have enthusiastically welcomed the courageous march for peace carried out recently by thousands of British men and women to one of their large nuclear research stations. At present we have been able to note no less spectacular demonstrations by young Americans, followed by letting off harmless children’s balloons, with the declaration that this was better than the releasing of bombs and atomic missiles. We know the way in which the Norwegian and Danish governments have already opposed the establishment of atomic rocket launching sites upon their soil. Impressive gatherings have taken place in Germany, Italy and France, some of them with an international participation, and always with a large percentage of women present, who called upon their governments to follow the examples of Norway and Denmark. All women consider the suspension of nuclear tests as an important step towards disarmament and place great hopes in the plans for convening a Summit Conference, which seems to be within sight. The right of the peoples to selfdetermination must be universally respected and recognised, if disarmament and an end to all wars is to be achieved. No one can turn back the wheel of history. Bismarck’s old principle that “Might is Right” shouid no longer have any meaning in the twentieth century, and peaceful solutions should be sought for all disputes everywhere, which is what the British did in India. Our sisters in all countries know that the people of France and that French women in particular deplore the frightful war which has steeped Algeria in a bath of blood and they work indefatigably to hasten its end. We hope that a happy solution will be found to the tragedy which is disturbing Algeria and France so profoundly at present. In the midst of their worst difficulties the people of France are once more prepared to affirm their support for the Republic. In these difficult times which deeply affect the whole world, the W.I.D.F. loudly reaffirms iis desire to work with all its strength in the defence of peace. It should be more closely linked to the worid peace movement than ever before and should contribute to forming, along with this movement, a powerful public opinion in favour of disarmament and the peaceful coexistence of the peoples. These two themes will be discussed at the World Congress which will take place in Stockholm, starting July 16th next, and which I hope will be attended by many women. At each of the three planned conferences, the women of all continents must put forward their points of view, and we hope that the delegates will divide themselves up equally between the three meetings so that we may be able to carry out work of really world-wide significance and so that the documents worked out may also be of universal value. We also hope that every delegate and observer will participate in the conference of her choice. In conclusion, dear friends, I would like to emphasise the fact that we have come here delegated by hundreds of millions of women of all the continents. Conscious of the great resposibility put upon us, we are resolved to work with all our strength so that the Fourth Congress of the W.L.D.F. will clearly define the present tasks of women, and the way in which these can be accomplished with an ever increasing efficiency. We are living in an epoch of great change and we understand that this change will become more rapid as a result of the tremendous progress made by science. === [PDF page 10] === It is therefore necessary for women as well as for men to adapt themselves quickly and everywhere to the changes in the world, and to contribute to these changes. It is necessary to strengthen the advancement of women everywhere which is so encouraging, but which we know to be still inadequate. We must do all this together. There are at present no problems, either political or economic, which interest only one country and one continent. Our Federation should therefore underline its characteristic of a big world family, where nothing that concerns women, whatever their race, is not of interest to the women in whatever country they may live. Our greatest success will be found in solidarity, friendship and unity. Let us be confident and work together hand in hand in even closer unity, for the honour of the W.LD.F. and for the triumph of the brotherhood of mankind. === [PDF page 11] === a ae ree MANIFESTO OF THE IVth CONGRESS We women meeting at the [Vth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation, have come from 70 countries, from different social backgrounds, with varied religions, opinions and languages, members and nonmembers of the W.L.D.F. We were delegated by hundreds of millions of women of all continents, to consider the role and responsibility of women in the world today. We are meeting at a moment of profound change. Mankind has entered the atomic cra. The outstanding scientific discoveries have unfolded an inspiring promise to the people for their welfare. A great transformation is taking place in the world regarding the status of women. Hundreds of millions of women enjoy full rights, millions of others demand their rightful place in society and millions are freeing themselves from oppression and backward customs. They are a new creative force which is contributing to the welfare and prosperity of their peoples and of all mankind. A new woman is being born who strives to fulfil her responsibilities as citizen, mother and educator of her children, as a companion to her husband and as a worker in the service of progress. Women are an active force in the struggle of the peoples for security, for their sovereign rights, for equality and respect for human dignity, and for friendly cooperation and peace. But this irresistible march forward of mankind is hampered by the plans of those who suppress the movement of peoples for independence with the most brutal methods, who speed up the armaments race, thus aggravating international tension and threatening the world with a terrible atomic war. Atomic war, with its frightful power of extermination, is a challenge to women and their very right to motherhood. It is the enemy of our children and of all mankind. We call upon all women to demand measures to ensure peace. We welcome with gratitude and hope the peaceful action of the Soviet Union in taking the initiative to stop the tests. Atomic tests are already spreading slow death amongst our children, are causing the birth of human beings with abnormalities, and threatening future generations. We urge governments possessing these weapons immediately to end all atomic tests. 10 === [PDF page 12] === We demand the prohibition of atomic weapons, the destruction of stock piles and the removal of launching sites which mark as victims the people of the countries where they are installed. We call for an end to the flights of aeroplanes loaded with atomic bombs which are a constant threat to peaceful towns and villages. We demand the withdrawal of foreign troops from the territories which they occupy. We demand the settlement of all differences between countries by negotiation. Together with all the peoples we demand disarmament. Any arms reduction would release large sums of money. The less bombs and rockets, the less hunger and misery. We want riches, the work and creative energies of the peoples to be used to serve the welfare of all, and the tremendous perspective held out to mankind by the atomic age to be fulfilled. Disarmament leads to the relaxation of international tension and opens the way to confidence between the peoples based on equality and respect for national independence. We desire a world free from hatred and racism where all children will be able to know, to understand and to love one another. We support all women who are struggling for national independence and who are victims of repression. We demand that the governments respect the principles of national independence and the human rights as embodied in the Charter of the United Nations. We call upon ail women. We are united by deep common aspirations. The things we differ on are nothing as compared to those on which we agree. Let us work together. Let us act with determination and join with all those who struggle for progress and peace. The time has gone when women could be considered inferior. Let us do away with discrimination and demand our full rights and respect for our dignity. Each gain made towards full equality increases our strength, our awareness and our responsibility. We are hundreds of millions, one half of mankind. Our actions can be decisive in the struggle to prevent atomic war. Many women’s organisations and authoritative voices have already made themselves heard, If all women and all women’s, organisations who desire the emancipation of women, the protection of children and the defence of peace would unite, they would be invincible. We must be worthy of our responsibility. Peace must prevail. Together let us help build a better world. Adopted unanimously. Vienna, June 5th, 1958. 11 === [PDF page 13] === Mrs Carmen Zanti, General Secretary of the W.I.D.F. reporting on the work of the Constitution Commission. Mrs Shanta Dev, India, presenting the report’ to the Conference on “The creation of conditions which will enable woman to fulfil her role in 80ciety as mother, worker and citizen”. === [PDF page 14] === RESOLUTIONS The IVth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation, held in Vienna from June 1st to 5th, 1958, has made it possible to evaluate the importance of gains made in the three fields of activity which correspond to the three tasks of the W.I.D.F. namely: — the defence of children — the defence of the rights of women — the defence of peace. In order to make the work effective, three conferences were organised during the Congress, each dealing with one of the three tasks. All these activities are a unified whole, Unless women enjoy their full rights it is not possible to improve the living conditions of families; without peace the progress and happiness of mankind cannot be achieved. Therefore we present jointly the text of the three resolutions adopted by the three Conferences. They specify our future tasks and should help in their realisation. A precondition for our success is closer unity of women from all continents, of all ways of life, of all organisations. We must continuously strengthen the bonds of friendship which are invaluable to our work. === [PDF page 15] === RESOLUTION OF THE IVih CONGRESS of the Women’s International Democratic Federation on “The Defence of Life” The IVth Congress of the W.LD.F. is impressed by the extreme alternatives facing humanity today. On the one hand mankind faces a terrible danger and on the other hand unlimited possibilities exist for a happy future. Scientisis all over the world note with alarm the increased radio-activity in the atmosphere, rainfall, food and the milk of our children. Their cry of warning is one which all women should heed, The policy of rearmament, of intervention in the internal affairs of countries and the setting up of military pacts are threatening peace in different parts of the world, especially in the Middle East. In Algeria for the past four years, the war has been causing endless suffering and distr There is a danger that this war might be spread to the rest of North Africa, and further. Wherever the sovereignty and independence of peoples have not yet been achieved or are not respected, where colonial rule and armed repression exist, peace is in danger. The lives of women and children in Cyprus, Cuba, Kenya, the Cameroons as well as Madagascar and other countries, are full of suffering and deprivation caused by terror and repression. The maintenance of a devided Germany, Korea and Viet-Nam is a constant danger to peace. Today women refuse to accept unhappiness as inevitable. They want to protect the life they give. They want to make life beautiful and bountiful. This great aspiration can be realised. Atomic energy can be an inexhaustible source of well-being, it can prolong life, cure diseases now considered incurable, produce most beautiful harvests and rich fruits from hitherto sterile soil. It can bring great benefits within the reach of all. It can lighten the burdens of labour, The thousands of millions spent on military purposes could be made available by disarmament. All steps taken in this direction would allow an improvement in the life of families, in building houses and schools, maternity homes and ereches, which are desperately lacking in so many countries. All this is possible. Throughout the world the peoples are proclaiming their will to live in peace and friendship, to develop their economic and cultural relations. 14 === [PDF page 16] === It is only by constant vigilance and united action that women can succeed in averting the danger and in achieving the happy future to which they aspire. The IVth Congress of the W.I.D.F. welcomes the decision ef the Soviet Union te unilaterally suspend nuclear tests. The Congress calls upon all organisations and all women and mothers to unite their efforts to bring about the immediate suspension of tests by the powers possessing atomic weapons as a first step towards the prohibition of these weapons and the destruction of existing stocks. This will prepare the way for general disarmament. The Congress calls upon women and women’s organisations to work: — for an immediate end to the Algerian war by negotiating a joint and democratic solution to the Algerian problem, which respects the aspirations of the Algerian people; — to achieve the necessary conditions for the reunification of Korea, Viet-Nam and Germany; — to give support to the women who struggle for the independence of their countries, who suffer repression and struggle against the danger of the | rebirth of fascism; — to insist that governments and international bodies respect the principles of the United Nations Charter which guarantees the rights of individuals and of peoples; — to initiate varied activities to make women more aware of their strength and their responsi’ ties; — to support all efforts, all activities, all conferences and congresses which advance the cause of peace. It calls for immediate steps to achieve greater cooperation and joint action on a national and international level, with all women’s organisations, who, in growing numbers, are taking parallel actions in defence of peace. By their actions, women of all countries have made an important contribution to the defence of peace. Today the need is greater than ever to intensify all efforts to secure the settlement of all differences by negotiation in the spirit ef peaceful coexistence as expressed at the Bandung Conference. A peaceful world can only be assured by the unity of all peaceful forces. The Fourth Congress of the W.LD.F. warmly greets the “Congress for Disarmament and International Cooperation” to take place in Stockholm from July 16th to 22nd. The Congress expresses its full confidence that this great world gathering will bring even greater unity to the peace forces and will be an important contribution to the maintenance of peace in the world. Adopted unanimously Vienna, June 1st—Sth, 1958. === [PDF page 17] === Missing Pages in Original Pages 16 and 17 missing === [PDF page 18] === — to campaign for ratification of Conventions 100 (Equal Pay for Equal Work) and 103, and Recommendation 95 (concerning protection of mother and child), te secure national legislation in countries where there is none and to take all steps for the implementation of such legislation where it already exists; — to work for laws and regulations protecting the rights of working mothers, safeguarding married and pregnant women, and for their implementation; for the extension of the principles of all International Conventions and existing national laws to millions of women agriculture; — to work for legislation guaranteeing old age pensions to women of all trades and professions, in countries where such laws do not exist; — to work for the removal of all discrimination against girls and women, and for access to general education and to all fields of professional and vocational education in law and in practice; for the creation of special facilities for the re-training of women who are re-entering work; — to make all efforts to eliminate illiteracy among women; — to work for the protection of home-workers against all forms of abuse and discrimination, to demand laws for their protection where there are none, and to secure their implementation in practice; — to aid women workers in technically under-developed countries who are engaged in the cottage industries in their efforts to organise producers’ and distributors’ cooperatives, to secure credits for raw materials, to overcome vrimitive conditions of production and to ensure a market for their produce; — to support all endeavours \to establish medical consultative centres in town and country as a minimum need to safeguard the health of mother and child; — to support all demands of housewives against the high cost of living, for better housing conditions, for playgrounds for children, for reasonably-priced modern household appliances, for efficient shopping facilities, etc.; — to enlighten women as to their rights, to make known the existing laws and help women benefit from them by working together with trade unions, experts, social workers, doctors and lawyers, members of Parliament and public official: —to promote activities and to support all efforts seeking to reform those existing Civil Codes which relegate women to an inferior position in regard to marriage, right to children, equal status in case of divorce, the right to separate income, the right to inheritance and to ownership of property; to work for and support all efforts for the introduction of democratic marriage laws or amendments to existing laws based on the principle of equality laid down in paragraph 16 of the U.N.O. Declaration on Human Rights, and to help establish consultative centres for women to deal with their legal and family problems.: The Congress gives its full support to the demands of the women of Africa and Asia, concerning their rights, enunciated at the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Conference held in December 1957. It calls upon all women and women’s organisations to support the struggle against racial discrimination in all fields. The Fourth Congress of the W.LD.F. calls on its national organisations, on all women and women’s organisations and all others interested in these problems, to intensify all activities in defence of all categories of women—in the town and in the country. The Congress recommends that the W.LD.F. sponsors, 18 === [PDF page 19] === eS A ee a a a LS on different subjects, special international seminars, and study-days similar to the one held in Potsdam last year on the protection of motherhood. The Congress welcomes the activities of those national organisations which, taking into account the special conditions in their countries, are organising conferences, meetings, seminars, enquiries and other types of mass actions in collaboration with other women’s organisations in order to raise their consciousness and involve greater numbers in the struggles for their rights. The Congress recommends closer cooperation between international and } national women’s and trade union organisations on all or any of the problems to improve the status of women in all spheres of economic, political and civil rights. The Congress calls upon all women and their organisations to unite into one great force capable of finding solutions to our problems, te make women more aware of their rights and to defeat all obstacles which stand in our way to full equality in family and society. The Congress reaffirms that the paramount need is to preserve peace, for only in a world at peace can our gains be secured and our rights advanced. Adopted unanimously Vienna, June 1st—5th, 1958. 19 === [PDF page 20] === Mrs Marie Pritt (Great Britain) who presented the report to the Conference “On the Defence of Life”., | View of the Conference on “The Right, of Children and Youth to Education in a Spirit of | Peace and Friendship between Peoples’. === [PDF page 21] === RESOLUTION OF THE IVth CONGRESS of the Women’s International Democratic Federation on “the Right of Children and Youth to education in a spirit of peace and friendship between peoples”. The IVth Congress discussed the conditions and the content of education; the role of the family, the school and out-of-school activity in the development of the character of the new generation. The discussion showed that the essential conditions necessary to educate youth in a spirit of peace and friendship between the peoples are peace and the right of the nations to self-determination. The Congress heard with interest the experiences of those countries where the education of the younger generation is carried out’in a spirit of humanism, of friendship and of respect of other peoples. In these countries, the State allots large sums for education and training, while at the same time taking steps to improve the material conditions of children and youth, to protect their health, to guarantee professional training and to ensure their full development. They also welcomed the great efforts made by the countries which have recently gained their independence to overcome the backward legacy left by colonial domination. The Congress greeted the activities of UNESCO and UNICEF as well as other specialised agencies of the United Nations Organisation, which are concerning themselves with the lot of children in the underdeveloped and colonial countries. The discussion showed that free and compulsory basic education for ail children is not yet in force in a majority of countries. Official statistics show that in a number of countries the budget for war has greatly increased while funds devoted to the social needs of the people and to education have been reduced. The situation has very bad repercussions on education: the number of schools and teachers are insufficient, and classes are overcrowded. Children are often forced to be absent from school due to the low standard of living of the family. Under these conditions it is necessary for them to go to work at a very early age. The situation is becoming particularly bad for the children of the unemployed, whose numbers are increasing as a result of developing economic crises in a number of.countries. In many countries the system of education does not keep pace with the development of science, technology and the cultural attainments of the modern world, and has little in common with the needs of modern life. Often racial and sex discrimination contribute further to depriving children of the right to an education. 21 === [PDF page 22] === The physical and moral well-being of children and youth, are directly infiuenced by the armaments race, installation of atomic bases and rocket sites in different countries, as well as the testing of nuclear armaments, the policy of force and of active preparation for war. Participants at the Congress were indignant to hear about the massacres and violence perpetrated by colenialists against families and children taking place in countries where independence is being attacked by force and repression. The Congress declared that the government and society should make available to all children free and universal education, in the mother tongue, without any distinction between race, nationality, sex or social origin. Education should be in keeping with the needs of science and of modern technology; children should be taught respect for national culture, love of their country, and inspired with friendship towards all peoples of the world. The Congress emphasised that the family and society must assume responsibility for the education of children and youth. The education and characterforming of a child commences in the bosom of the family. Parents have profound influence on their children. They should educate and bring them up to be men and women animated with love for peace, with respect for humanity, and to be useful citizens. The Congress noted that there is great concern with the fact that in many countries the press, cinema, radio and television programmes corrupt children and youth, propagate hatred and contempt for human life, contempt for other peoples, encourage racial discrimination, violence and crime. The Congress declared that it is essential to organise the leisure time of children by out-of-school activities, to make facilities available for the training of youth in a spirit of humanism and of mutual understanding between peoples. The Congress therefore calls on national organisations affiliated to the W.LD.F. to take all necessary measures in accordance with the situation in their country to realise the following objectives: — to cooperate with women’s and other organisations working for the defence of children: to arrange consultations, exchange opinions, conduct round table talks and study days to study and help find common solutions to the problems of childhood and youth; to promote cooperation between parents and teachers as an important factor in all efforts to improve education; — to cooperate with all forces and prominent people interested in the defence ef childhood by drafting laws for the protection of the life and health of children, for the improvement of their material situation and their education, and to submit these bills to parliaments and governments; — to conduct wide national and international campaigns, to help UNO adopt the Charter of children’s rights; — to cooperate with the national commissions of UNESCO and other specialised agencies of U.N.O. for the improvement of educational facilities for children in different countries. The Congress calls upon women’s organisations, affilliated and non-affiliated to the W.LD.F., it calls upon all women of the world, to increase their activities, in cooperation with all people of goodwill, to insist that governments and 22 === [PDF page 23] === ee a parliaments reduce the sums allocated for military purposes and divert these funds to social services, education, the training of teachers, the building of new schools. The Congress calls for the immediate ending of nuclear tests, banning of atomic and thermo-nuclear weapons and disarmament, to save the children from an atomic war, which menaces their lives and the future of humanity. ) Adopted unanimously Vienna, June 1st—Sth, 1958. Delegates voting on the resolutions. === [PDF page 24] === MESSAGE of the IVth Congress of the Womens’ International Democratic Federation on The Occasion of International Children’s Day We, delegates from seventy countries representing millions of women from every part of the world meeting at the Fourth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation, which opened in Vienna on June Ist, 1958, International Children’s Day, convey our most cordial wishes to the children of the world. Our most fervent desire is that all children everywhere may live in peace in order to grow up in a happy environment, to know each other, to understand and love each other. This day, when our thoughts are turned towards all children, we are terribly anxious because of the dangers that threaten them. We know that nuclear weapons tests poison the amosphere with deadly particles which endanger the health not only of the present generation but also of generations to come. On this day we are conscious of our great responsibility. In the name of life, which it is our mission to give and defend, we call on all mothers, fathers, teachers, doctors, members of parliament, all women and social organisations and all of those who have at heart the protection of children, to demand the immediate cessation of nuclear tests, as a first step towards the complete prohibition of weapons of mass destruction and towards disarmament. We want the wealth of the earth and the wonderful discoveries of modern science to serve the happiness of children all over the world, and the future of humanity. Adopted unanimously Vienna, June Sth, 1958 24 Nene === [PDF page 25] === TELEGRAM President, Security Council, United Nations, New York, U.S.A. “The delegates of 70 countries attending the Fourth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation address the President of the Security Council stop Women throughout the world have been deeply moved by the cry of alarm of the Japanese people and by the numerous solemn warnings of scientists against the atomic danger stop Women aware of their responsibilities on this June first International Children’s Day urge you Mr President to use your authority with the governments who pos the atomic bomb and nuclear weapons to suspend without delay nuclear tests as has already been done by the Government of the USSK stop signed Eugenie Cotton President of the Women’s International Democratic Federation. Vienna, Austria, Ist June, 1958 === [PDF page 26] === LETTER Mr. Dag Hammarskjoeld, Secretary General, United Nations, New York, U.S.A. Dear Sir, The Fourth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federatioy, now meeting in Vienna, has as its theme the role and responsibility of women today, and will chart its programme of work for the coming period, The Congress is a world gathering of women from seventy countries covering every continent. The delegates and guests represent many viewpoints, different walks of life and varied international and national organisations. The Congress received with astonishment the decision of the Committee of the Non-Governmental Organisations of the Social and Economie Council of U.N.O. declining the request of the W.LD.F. for consultative status “B” in the Economie and Social Council of U.N.O. The Congress considers that such a decision can only be based on a lack of information on the character, the aims and the programme of our organisation. The Congress reiterates the devotion of the W.I.D.F. to the principles of the United Nations Charter. Our programme is dedicated to securing equal status for women in society and in the family, to ensuring happiness for children in a world of peace, and is founded on the principles of equality and justice laid down in this great human document. The Congress feels that to deprive a women’s organisation with world-wide representation of close to 200,060,000 women from official participation in the counsels of the United Nations and its specialised agencies is both unjust and wasteful. This withholds from the United Nations a great source of support, and from hundreds of millions of women the possibility to make their wishes known to the United Nations. The Congress reveals that the national organisations of the W.LD.F. are making greater and more important contributions than ever to improve the status of women and the economic and social conditions of women and children. Their activities involve great numbers of women in the cities and the countryside, and treat problems of mutual concern to the W.LD.F. and the Economic and Social Council. The Congress appeals to you, Mr. Secretary, to use your good offices for reexamination of the decision of the Committee of the Non-Govermental Organisations. 26 === [PDF page 27] === The Congress greets the United Nations and expresses its ardent wish ic make a full contribution to the constructive work of the Economic and Social Council, and especially to the Commission on the Status of Women. 4dopted unanimously Vienna, June Sth, Respectfully yours, EUGENIE COTTON President, Women’s International Democratic Federation. === [PDF page 28] === LETTER ° IVth Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation 5th June, 1958. The Chairman, | Commission on Human Rights, Economic and Social e Council, United Nations, New York City, U.S.A. Dear Sir, The Congress of the W.1.D.F., held in Vienna, June ist to 5th, 1958, basing itself on the reports of the delegates from a number of countries, took note of the torture inflicted on prisoners of war, on men and women involved in the struggles for national liberation and democratic liberties. These facts are a confirmation of reports published daily in the public press. The Nuremburg Tribunal, responding to the demands of world-wide conscience had condemned the use of torture and pronounced severe judgment on those who applied it during the Second World War. The Congress unanimously requested of the U.N. Commission on Human Rights to use every means at its disposal to bring an end to the use of torture. a practice which has brought to humanity such intolerable suffering and shame. We attach herewith documentary facts which were submitted to the IVih Congress of the W.L.D.F. on this subject. Respectfully yours, CARMEN ZANTI General Secretary Adopted unanimously Vienna, June Sth, 1958. === [PDF page 29] === REPORT of the Credentials Commission A year ago the Council Session of the W.I.D.F. in Helsinki sent out an appeal for the holding of the Fourth Congress of the W.I.D.F. This appeal immediately received warm support from women’s organisations throughout the world. Preparations for popularising the Congress were staried with enthusiasm and differed in extent and form in the respective organisations in various’ countries. Thousands of meetings and conferences were held to discuss proposals and reporis, to reach agreement on the points to be submitted to the Congress, and to elect delegates. There was a marked feeling of solidarity. Funds were collected to help the delegates get to the Congress and the women of different lands helped each other. The Federation of Swiss Women for Peace and Progress paid for the delegates from South Africa, The Netherlands Women’s Movement assisted the Indonesian delegates, etc. These activities reached a high point on March 8th, International Women’s Day, when women’s organisations all over the world organised meetings and gatherings to bring the main themes of the Congress to the attention of their members, The themes of the Congress were widely discussed, and the decision toe limit the participation of delegates to ten for each country did not minimise the activities which made the Congress such a success. As a result of preparatory work, and broad cooperation and support from all sides, seventy countries from all of the five continents were represented at the Congress: 26 countries from Europe; 24 countries from Asia, Africa and Australia; 19 countries from the Americas. Six additional countries were not represented due to circumstances beyond the control of the delegates. These are: Congo, Ghana, Lebanon, Malaya, Nepal and Sudan. The Fourth Congress of the W.LD.F. was attended by 373 women; 305 of them as delegates, 39 as observers and 29 as guests. In addition to this, 9 international organisations sent representatives to the Congress. These are: 1) UNESCO — the Divisional Chief of the Education Departement, 2) World Federation of Democratic Youth, 3) International Federation of Resistance Movements, 4) World Federation of Teachers’ Unions, 5) World Council of Peace, 29 === [PDF page 30] === ee See 6) International Organisation of Journalists, 7) International Union of Students, 8) International Centre of Films for Children — UNESCO 9) International Institute for Peace. According to questionnaires filled in by those participating in the Congress, women of all professions were represented. There were: v 31 industrial workers 7 agricultural workers 60 clerical and commercial workers & 19 social workers 43 teachers 11 doctors 38 physicians, engineers, architects and lawyers 5 journalists 5 artists 5 writers 87 housewives and the others are students or belong to other professions. Fifty-six of the participants hold public office, as Members of Parliament, Councillors, Magistrates, etc. 237 women hold office in various women’s organisations, Sixty of the participants were under 30 years old; 131 from 31 to 40; 90 from 41 to 50 and 92 over 50 years old. Among them there was a family from Madagascar representing three generations: a little girl, her mother and her grandmother. Three main themes united the participants at the Congress from all the corners of the earth: 1) the defence of life, 2) the creation of conditions which will enable woman to fulfil her role in \ society as mother, worker and citizen, 3) the defence of the right of children and youth to education in a spirit of peace and friendship between peoples. These very important questions were discussed and reports given at special conferences: the Conference on “The defence of life” was attended by 121 women; the Conference on “Rights of women” was attended by 116 women; and the { Conference on “The defence of children” was attended by 106 women. In addition to the journalists who participated as delegates from sixteen countries, 23 journalists from nine countries closely followed the activities of the Congress. 30 === [PDF page 31] === FO ae PE eee The Congress received over 525 telegrams and messages from women’s organisations and individuals all over the world. Many of these organisations are not affiliated to the W.LD.F. Furthermore close to one million Hungarian women sent greetings. The progress of the IVth Congress of the W.I.D.F. was closely followed by millions of women all over the world. Women of all countries helped to prepare for this important Congress, and are eagerly awaiting its results, since the items on the agenda are of paramount concern to them, y The Congress wishes to express sincere gratitude to our Austrian friends, who made it possible for the [Vth Congress to take place in their beautiful capital, and who have shown the participants of the Congress outstanding 4 hospitality during their stay in Vienna. === [PDF page 32] === CONSTITUTION of the Women’s International Demovratic Federation The Women’s International Democratic Federation, which was founded on December Ist, 1945, after the Second World War, is an expression of the desire of women throughout the world to unite in opposition to war, oppression and misery and to build a future of progress, freedom, justice and peace. The W.I.D.F. unites women regardless of race, nationality, religion and political opinion, so that they may work together to win and defend their rights as citizens, mothers and workers, to protect children and te ensure peace, demo- | cracy and national independence. The W.LD.F. helps to establish bonds of friendship and solidarity among women of the whole world. ACTIVITIES To fulfil its aims the W.LD.F.: undertakes activities to advance women’s aspirations and demands; to exchange experiences between the organisations; conducts international and regional conferences, meetings, gatherings exchanges of delegations, study days, inquiries, exhibitions; and distributes publications and other media of publicity; seeks broad cooperation on the whole or on points of its programme with other women’s organisations, international and national, who are not affiliated ' to the W.LD.F., and with trade union, cooperative and youth organisations as well as with individual women; undertakes and supports activities aimed at promoting mutual understanding {| and joint action among the various women’s organisations for the realisation of common aims; supports the activities of the United Nations Organisation, its bodies and specialised agencies to carry out the principles of the United Nations Charter, and cooperates with organisations and associations working for the defence of peace and in the interests of women and children. MEMBERSHIP 2 Membership of the W.1.D.F. is epen to all organisations, federations of organisations, women’s international, national or local associations and groups which | agree with the aims of the W.I.D.F. or which support any one of the points of its programme. As an exception individual members may be admitted. 32 ides === [PDF page 33] === Affilliation to the W.LD.F. is compatible with affiliation to other national or international organisations. Any national or international association wishing to work with the W.LD.F. en one or several points of its programme may be admitted as an associate member. National or local organisations will not be admitted as members if they are affiliated to national federations or organisations which are already members of the W.LD.F. The Council of the W.I.D.F. may invite associations, groups of women or individuals, as guests to its meetings. Applications for membership of the W.I.D.F. will be examined and decided upon by the Bureau, which submits them to the Council for ratification. y The organisations affiliated to the W.I.D.F. are autonomous and undertake activities which correspond to the needs and conditions existing in their } respective countries. STRUCTURE Article 1 The W.1.D.F. organs are as follows: CONGRESS COUNCIL BUREAU SECRETARIAT Article 2 | The Congress is the highest authority of the W.I.D.F. The Congress examines and determines the tasks of the W.I.D.F., elects the Fresident and the Council; adopts or amends the Constitution and the Progamme. The Council, or Bureau if requested by the Council, determines the representation of the organisations at the Congress and decides on participation of individual members. The Congress is convened at least every four years. The Congress can be convened earlier upon decision of the Council. The decisions of the Congress are by majority vote. Each Congress decides its { manner of voting. Article 3 The Council is the responsible body leading the Federation in the period between Congresses. Each organisation affiliated to the W.I.D.F. must be represented on the Council. The Congress determines the number of representatives from organi- | sations, groups and individuals to be members of the Council. Between the | congresses, the Council determines the number subject to ratification by the; Congress. The Council has the right to co-opt representatives from associated organisations. === [PDF page 34] === When several organisations in the same country are members of the W.LD.F. it is desirable that they consult together in order to nominate their respective candidates to the Council. The Council meets at least once each year. An extraordinary Council meeting can be convened on the decision of the Bureau, or on the request of onethird of the Council members. The Council elects the Bureau and the Secretariat, and presents them to the Congress; it appoints the Finance Control Commission. It determines the place, date and agenda of the next Congress. The Council has the right in the period between two Congresses to make decisions on organisational and constitutional matters, subject to ratification by the Congress. The decisions of the Council are adopted by a majority vote. Article 4 The Bureau is composed of the President, the Vice-Presidents, the General Secretary, and additional members elected by the Council. The Bureau carries out the decisions of the Congress and Council and directs the activities of the W.LD.F. on the basis of these decisions between Council meetings. The Bureau meets at least twice a year. The Bureau can set up commissions to prepare and carry through specific activities of the W.L.D.F. Article 5 The Secretariat is composed of the General Secretary, the Secretaries and the Treasurer. The Secretariat is responsible for carrying out the decisions of the leading bodies of the W.LD.F. The Secretariat may invite representatives from national organisations to participate in its work. The Secretariat ensures an exchange of experiences between the national organisations, studies their problems and their activities and presents the results of these studies to the Bureau. Article 6 The Finance Control Commission audits the accounts of the Federation periodically, at least once a year. It presents a report to the Council and Congress. * FINANCE The funds of the W.LD.F. are derived from the fees of the member organisations as established by the Congress, and from various donations and contributions. The Bureau submits the annual budget of the W.LD.F. to the Council for examination and ratification. === [PDF page 35] === PROGRAMME of the Women’s International Democratic Federation To win and defend women’s rights: Full equality of women with men and full participation in all spheres of political, social and economic life; recognition and respect of women’s dignity in the family and in society; the right to vote and to be elected to all national and local governmental bodies; the right to work and to equal pay; access to all administrative and judicial positions, to all trades and professions on an equal footing with men; protection of mother and child; social security for all women; equal rights with men in regard to marriage, property and children; equal access to all avenues of education and to a full cultural life. To defend the right of all children to Life, Happiness and Education: Free health and medical protection for all children; free education and vocational training for all children and youth; education in a spirit of peace and brotherhood among the peoples; improvement of the living conditions of the family. To safeguard Peace Reduction of armaments, and prohibition of atomic, thermo-nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, with the final aim of total disarmament; reduction of military budgets in favour of budgets for social progress; peaceful solution of all differences by negotiation; respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples according to the Charter of the United Nations; peaceful coexistence between States irrespective of economic and social systems; economic, scientific and cultural cooperation among nations on a basis of equality. Adopted unanimously Vienna, June 5th, 1958. 35