7th WIDF Congress, International Women's Year: Equality, Development, Peace (Berlin, 26 October 1975)

=== [PDF page 1] === : INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’ S YEAR : See | adel < Reace === [PDF page 2] === 7th WIDF Congress [Library stamp: JESSIE STREET WOMEN'S LIBRARY 5753D] === [PDF page 3] === Contents Introduction Opening of the 7th WIDF Congress Aruna Asaf Ali, National Federation of Indian Women Vice-President of the WIDF Address to the 7th Congress of the WIDF Fanny Edelman, General Secretary of the WIDF Report on the Development of the Work of the WIDF since the 6th Congress Report of the Finance Control Commission covering the period between the 6th and 7th Congresses of the WIDF (1969-1975) Edith Erdei, National Council of Hungarian Women President of the Finance Control Commission of the WIDF Report of the Credentials Committee to the 7th Congress of the WIDF Paulina Mateus Nkonda, Mozambique Prospective Plan of the WIDF up to 1980 The Decision-making Bodies of the Women’s International Democratic Federation Closing Address Freda Brown, President of the WIDF 11 55 58 60 64 70 === [PDF page 4] === Introduction The 7th WIDF Congress in Berlin, GDR on 26th October 1975 bore the imprint of the 30th anniversary of the WIDF's foundation. It was an event of great importance for the Federation. It followed upon the great and historic World Congress for International Women’s Year (20th—24th October, Berlin, GDR), to which the WIDF national organizations made a valuable contribution. The delegates considered the report on the development of the work of the WIDF since the 6th Congress (Helsinki 1969), the report of the Finance Control Commission, and the draft Prospective Plan of WIDF activities for the period up to 1980, which were unanimously approved. Many delegates spoke in the discussion about the experience drawn from their work in their countries and on the international level. They stressed the need to step up the common efforts to achieve the goals of the WIDF and the importance of the conclusions of the World Congress for International Women's Year which offered great new opportunities for co-operation and common action for their implementation. All contributions to the discussion drew attention to the enormous power of international solidarity, and a number of solidarity declarations and telegrams in support of the women’s struggle for national independence, democracy and social progress were proposed. These were adopted by the Congress. The 7th Congress in the WIDF's thirtieth year was a further contribution by its national organizations to the cause of peace and national independence and to the struggle for the equality and dignity of women. Note: the reports of the national organizations on their activity between the 6th and the 7th Congresses and the declarations of solidarity will be published in subsequent issues of Documents and Information. === [PDF page 5] === Opening of the 7th WIDF Congress Aruna Asaf Ali, National Federation of Indian Women Vice-President of the WIDF | have the privilege and honour to declare the 7th Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation open. We cordially welcome all the participants who are gathered here at our Congress as emissaries of women all over the world. Our Congress follows immediately upon the great and eventful World Congress for International Women's Year, which we all helped to organize and whose results and conclusions will be extremely important for our future work. | should like to take this opportunity to thank, on your behalf, the Government of the German Democratic Republic once again for enabling us to hold our 7th Congress in this country: Our thanks also go to our dear sisters of the Democratic Women’s League of Germany whose members and many other social forces have helped to ensure such good conditions for the Congress. Dear friends, we should like to use this platform to honour the memory of those who are no longer with us—Hertta Kuusinen, our President since the 6th Congress in Helsinki, passed away on the 18th of March 1974. The WIDF, the affiliated national organizations and all those who knew her were deeply grieved when she left us. They lost a great friend and fighter, a candid spirit; a mind and heart completely dedicated to the struggle for women's and children’s rights, the cause of all peoples, progress and peace. It was she who, on behalf of the WIDF and other organizations, proposed at the 24th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women that an international women’s year should be proclaimed. It was she who devoted all her energy and humanity to the idea of this international year, which she was sure she wduld be able to observe with us. How happy she would have been if she could see the splendid outcome of the World Congress for International Women’s Year, Dr. Andrea Andreen of Sweden and Margarita de Ponce of Argentina, Honorary Vice- Presidents of the WIDF and outstanding figures in the democratic women’s movement, who made such an invaluable contribution to the programme that unites us all are likewise no longer with us. | am sure | can speak for all of you in saying that the greatest tribute we can pay to them is to follow their example and continue to concentrate fully on our tasks in the interests of women, for the happiness of families. | ask you to observe a minute of silence in their memory. Thank you, === [PDF page 6] === Address to the 7th Congress by Fanny Edelman, General Secretary of the WIDF Dear Friends, As we open our 7th Congress, we are still under the strong impression of the moving closing session of the World Congress. The presence of those children alone, their messages, songs, flowers and dances, synthesized the happy life that we want all the children of the world to enjoy. Their future is our concern, it is one of the reasons for our struggle and our unity, a unity so magnificently displayed by the World Congress which has just ended. As we often said it would be, the Congress was a vibrant demonstration of unity, friendship and understanding, the most outstanding event of the International Women’s Year. We can pride ourselves on the fact that the initiative of the WIDF in calling for a World Congress in International Women’s Year achieved world-wide resonance. We can be proud of the opinion of the WIDF expressed by Dr. Kurt Waldheim, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in his message to the World Congress. We say that the Congress has been the culmination of the International Women's Year, because it expressed the aspirations and longings of women and brought together the rich experience of the various organizations interested in radically changing the status of women so that they can share equally with men in the life of society. We can state, and the Congress has confirmed, that never before in the history of the international women’s movement has there been such a representative meeting of public forces or, to use Freda Brown's expression, a forum of the peoples, reflecting such a broad. spectrum of public movements guided by the desire to unite their efforts in order to solve one of the vital problems that confront humanity today, that of enabling women as workers, mothers and citizens to make the same contribution as men to social progress. The broad and representative nature of the World Congress is convincing proof that more and more public movements are coming to appreciate the decisive contribution made by women to the struggle for peace, national independence and democracy, and to declare their intention to take common action to enable women to assume their due place in society, as the documents adopted by the Congress demonstrate. The reports of the nine commissions are comprehensive and thorough studies of the problems that concern society at large and the women’s movement more specifically. The idea that the struggle for the equality of women is inseparable from the people’s struggle for peace and national independence and against all forms of racism and oppression was strongly expressed at the Congress and received tremendous support. The broadly representative composition of the many highly competent national delegations is proof of the universal response to the Congress. Further proof is the work done to prepare it at the national level, which involved a great number of women’s, trade union, youth, co-operative, religious, peace and other movements, and many prominent personalities who were participating in joint action for the first time. On the basis of our initial analysis we can say that slightly more than 25 per cent of the delegates attending the World Congress were from organizations belonging to the WIDF. === [PDF page 7] === Because of this feature of the Congress, it was no easy task to achieve unity on a number of questions. At the same time the prevailing atmosphere was one of seeking solutions that would be acceptable to the overwhelming majority of the delegates. It is important to stress that both men and women participated in the Congress. This shows that an increasing number of public organizations now regard the question of women's status as one of the problems in most urgent need of solution. By taking an active part in the struggle for peace and democracy, women have made it clear that they are men’s fellow-fighters, in no way inferior to them, in the common struggle for national independence and against all forms of oppression and injustice. We are sure that the Appeal to the Women of the World that the Congress has adopted will contribute to bringing about greater unity, arouse great interest, and stir new groupings of women into action for the achievement of the goals of the International Women's Year. The support the Congress had from the United Nations and its specialized agencies, and the messages received from prominent leaders and personalities in many countries, is evidence of the influence that world public opinion has acquired. In the course of the World Congress many warm words of gratitude were addressed to those who received the delegates and guests with so much hospitality. Here at the 7th Congress of the WIDF, we wish to stress the great contribution to the success of the World Congress made by our friends in the GDR, who had every support from the Central Committee of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany and the Government of the GDR. Owing to the fact that the Congress was held in a socialist country, the participants were able to appreciate the opportunities women have to take part in the economic, political, social and cultural life of their society. This will give many women of the world added strength to continue the struggle for their rights. Our 7th Congress can confirm that the International Women’s Year found its most significant manifestation, its most excellent expression in the World Congress which has just ended. Now | wish to express my gratitude to our dear Freda Brown, who for a whole year acted as president of the International Preparatory Committee on our request and did a tremendous amount of work in this capacity, bringing together hundreds of organizations to work for the goals of the International Women’s Year. Her flexibility and intelligence combined with a talent for arriving at solutions acceptable to all generated an atmosphere of co-operation and mutual understanding among the members of both the Executive and the International Preparatory Committee. This tremendous achievement, magnificently expressed in the Congress, is due to Freda's flexible guidance; it is due to the contribution made by our dear Ilse Thiele as Vice-President of the International Preparatory Committee, with the skill and wisdom with which we are all familiar. The success of the World Congress is our success. Its conclusions are ours. Not only was the WIDF the initiator and active co-organizer of the World Congress for International Women's Year, it is also the first to hold its own Congress after this world event. This 7th Congress is an occasion to analyse the successes of the recent past and, with the aid of the Prospective Plan, to map out the tasks for the future. The successes in our work and in the activities of our national organizations on all continents, in all countries, in the most distant corners of the earth in preparing and holding the World Congress are an eloquent expression of the power and strength of the democratic women's movement. Our 7th Congress marks the start of a new stage. The implementation of the Prospective Plan, which we shall be adopting today, will contribute towards mobilizing more social === [PDF page 8] === forces whose contribution is in our opinion needed to translate into reality the decisions of the World Congress for International Women’s Year and the World Plan of Action adopted by the United Nations Conference of the International Women’s Year in Mexico City. All the work done by the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it in connection with the International Women’s Year and the holding of the World Congress which has just ended has been of great service to the development of the national and international women’s movement. The great success that this extensive and wide-ranging work met with opens up new prospects for the WIDF, the only women’s organization that unites women from all continents, whatever the social system in their countries. The Prospective Plan takes into account past experiences and contains Practical measures that accord with the aspirations of women, the reality of the contemporary world, and the interests of the democratic movement. The outcome of our work in co-operation with the national organizations in the past few years shows that we can reach the goals we set ourselves in this ambitious plan. Our Prospective Plan is a formidable propagandistic, mobilizing and organizing instrument that will advance the struggle for the rights we still have to win, for a more just world, for a better life. The broad co-operation that led to the establishment of the national committees for the International Women’s Year in many countries should, if continued, facilitate the implementation of the United Nations World Plan of Action. Now it is a question of fusing the plan of work that our Congress adopts with the resolutions of the World Congress and the Plan of Action proclaimed by the United Nations World Conference of the International Women’s Year. It is a question of entering upon a new and fruitful phase on a much broader basis still, meeting all misgivings respectfully and openly. It is a question of involving new and wider categories of women in this very important task, establishing closer ties of friendship and cooperation with all public organizations interested, as we are, in winning equality for all women on a world scale. Our very important and responsible mission derives from an International Year and a World Congress that figure among the major events in the world-wide democratic movement; from an International Women’s Year and a World Congress that are a practical expression of the prevailing trend towards detente, peaceful coexistence and unterstanding between peoples. The progress of detente in inter-state relations and the affirmation of the principles of peaceful coexistence create increasingly favourable conditions for unifying the efforts of all those who have in common the struggle for democracy and national independence and for the elimination of the discrimination still practiced against women.: There is no denying the responsibility we have for contributing to the process of international detente, to having political detente supplemented by military detente, and to bringing about practical and tangible steps towards disarmament. The development of the process of detente and the strengthening of peaceful coexistence found their highest expression in the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe held in Helsinki this July, the outcome of which was highly praised by delegates to the World Congress. At this Conference, for the first time in the history of the European peoples, foundations were laid for a firm guarantee of the inviolability of the borders of European states, and the peoples’ right to peace was affirmed. Its significance transcends the limits of one continent, making it an event of international portent, of interest and benefit to all peoples. === [PDF page 9] === A prominent role has always been played by women in the struggle for peace and disarmament, and the WIDF has made a decisive contribution. It was one of the founders of the world movement of defenders of peace, a movement that has become 9 powerful social force. We are sure that, as an inseparable part of this movement, the WIDF, with the decisive contribution of the affiliated national organizations, will continue to assume its share of responsibility in the struggle for life and peace. Once again we can appreciate in all its significance the enormous influence exerted on the process of detente by the great victories of the peoples fighting for national independence. The historic victory of the heroic people of Vietnam and all the peoples of Indochina, the victories of Guinea-Bissau and the Cape Verde Islands, Angola and Mozambique, Portugal and Greece, give encouragement to the oppressed peoples, to all those who have to gain or regain freedom. These victories, however, do not blind us to the many things that still have to be done to strengthen detente and make it irreversible, to obtain universal disarmament and a just peace. To achieve these goals, it is imperative that everyone struggle still more energetically to extinguish the dangerous hotbed of war in the Middle East, to stop the Israeli aggression against the Arab people; to put an end to fascism, zionism, colonialism and neo-colonialism, racism and apartheid, and to enable the Palestinian Arab people to regain its legitimate national rights. It is imperative to intensify solidarity with all the peoples fighting for restoration of their sovereign rights. _ The solidarity that unites us in the stuggle for the rights of women, the happiness of children, peace, democracy and social Progress has made the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it a magnet for ever more women and their organizations, The solidarity characteristic of the WIDF is likewise a contribution to the struggle to supplement political detente by military detente, to achieve disarmament and to win peace, Dear friends, our 7th Congress gives us an opportunity to appreciate how intelligently the WIDF national organizations have been carrying out the great task of uniting the broadest masses of women in action for their right to work and for access to land, culture and welfare. Our Congress convincingly demonstrates that the concerns of the broad masses of women as mothers, workers and citizens are inseparable from the peoples’ struggle for Progress, national independence and peace. Their action for a truly democratic society that would guarantee their equality reveals the high level of awareness of the masses of women. This shows us how necessary it is to strengthen the WIDF still further, to bring women together, to organize them, to strengthen their organizations, to create organizations where there are none, and to draw up programmes that correspond to their interests. All this means increasing the power and influence of the WIDF national organizations, which are the firm and expanding foundations of its strength and prestige. This strength and prestige is manifested also in the very close relations of friendship and co-operation which the WIDF maintains with many national organizations on all continents that share in its undertakings and activities. There has also been growing co-operation with international and regional organizations, with which permanent ties have been established and joint activities undertaken. There has been growing co-operation with the UN and its specialized agencies. All this proves that the WIDF does not concern itself with Federation matters alone. The list the delegates have of the 519 events in which the WIDF has Participated gives an insight into the constantly improving co-operation. === [PDF page 10] === These events, which include those convened by ECOSOC, UNESCO, the ILO, and various commissions of the UN system, are an expression of the WIDF'’s responsible approach to co-operation with the United Nations and the various international and regional organizations. They are an expression also of the authority it enjoys im these bodies. The strength and prestige of the WIDF was clearly demonstrated in the preparation and observance of International Women’s Year and the World Congress. The programme of activities carried out by the national organizations in connection with them on all continents and in each country demonstrated to public opinion that the WIDF not only has firm roots among the large masses of women but also enjoys great authority deriving from the responsibility that it has always assumed in the struggle for the rights of women and children, for equality of women with men in society and in the family, and for national independence, democracy and peace. This work, which brought about a considerable increase in the influence of the national organizations, was a very valuable contribution to the struggle being waged by women in each country to assert their rights, as, too, was the publicity giver to the achievements of women in the socialist countries. In the Prospective Plan you have before you we have drawn the lessons from the work done and recommend that this work be intensified on the international, regional and national level in the five years ahead, and that such problems be brought up and dealt with as accord with the interests of the majority of women and in whose solution the broadest circles of all social forces are ‘interested. The seminars which were held on various continents, bringing together thousands of women and numerous organizations, were of tremendous value to all the participants in that they stimulated discussion of genuine problems facing women and produced practical proposals for their solution. During this period thousands of women, many of them young women, have joined the WIDF. Many women's organizations have been formed in different countries in the course of the International Women’s Year, and since the 6th Congress 28 national organizations have asked to join the WIDF. The tremendous amount of very promising work done, based on full appreciation of the imperative need to unite minds, energies and wills to achieve equality, deve lopment and peace, is eloquently expressed in the contribution made to the World Congress by the members of the WIDF national organizations in the delegations from their respective countries. It is expressed in the debates and conclusions of the commissions. We regard this contribution as a pledge to have the Congress conclusions transformed into deeds and made the common property of new and very broad women's forces. The way to guarantee this is to promote the trend to unity, co-operation and understanding that characterized the preparatory work and the Congress itself. The reports of the national organizations to the 7th Congress are very valuable because they summarize this enormous work. They will be an important element in the exchange of experiences and information and will supplement the report, the plan of work and the resolutions which will be approved by the Congress. Dear friends, we believe that it is the intention of each one of us to continue along the path opened up by the International Women’s Year and the World Congress and to === [PDF page 11] === broaden this path so that it may be taken by new women's forces and new social forces. We will co-operate with them in order that the enormous scope offered by the UN Plan of Action, the documents of the World Congress, and the WIDF plan of work up to 1980 may culminate in concrete action, in true democratic changes in the life of women in the interests of human progress and peace, Once again we should like to express our heartfelt thanks to our dear friends of the Democratic Women's League of Germany, its President, Ilse Thiele, and the people and Government of the German Democratic Republic for their moving and inspiring solidarity, expressed in a thousand different ways, which testifies to the spirit that moves them to be always ready to come so generously to the aid of the WIDF. Once again we should like to express our profound gratitude to you, dear friends, to the 7th WIDF Congress, and through it to all those who are fighting in every corner of the world to carry out the oath of those anti-fascist patriots who met in Paris on 1st December 1945, under the presidency of the unforgettable Mme Eugénie Cotton, to create our great and beloved organization. On the 30th anniversary of the WIDF, we honour its founders, who put into words the aspirations of millions of women. We honour those who placed in our hands an oath that is a part of our life and which, for the benefit of all women and all peoples, we shall fulfil. Long live our great Women's International Democratic Federation! Long live our friendship, unity and solidarity! Long live freedom and peace! === [PDF page 12] === Report on the Development of the Work of the WIDF since the 6th Congress We are holding our 7th Congress just a few months after the commemoration of the transcendent victory of the anti-Hitler coalition over German fascism and Japanese militarism, on the eve of the 30th anniversary of the foundation of the WIDF, in the International Women's Year. This 7th Congress is the culmination of an era of multifarious experience acc umulated by our national organizations in their struggle for the integration of women in economic, political, social and cultural life, for recognition of their dignity as mothers, workers and citizens. It is a reaffirmation of their loyalty to the programme adopted at the Paris Congress on 1 December 1945 by the founders of the WIDF. A new organization was born on that day, open to all women and designecd to unite them around a universal programme with a new way of posing the woman question as a whole that is unique and inseparable from the struggle for democracy and national independence, social progress and universal peace. The correctness of this programme, its validity and application have exerted an enormous power of attraction during these thirty years. In 1945, at the time of its foundation, the WIDF consisted of 41 national organizations in as many countries. In 1969, at the 6th Congress, there were 93 organizations in 88 countries; in 1975 it has 120 national organizations in 103 countries, and 5 other organizations have applied for affiliation. These figures show not only the uninterrupted growth of the WIDF but also the respect and prestige it enjoys and the trust placed in it by millions of men and women all over the world. They show that it is a mighty force in the contemporary social movement, The 6th Congress, held in Helsinki on 18 June 1969, adopted as its own the Appeal to the Women of the World, the Resolution on Vietnam and the Appeal for Joint Action to Attain Women’s Rights, approved by the World Congress of Women (14-17 June 1969, Helsinki), which have guided our activities since. The Appeal to the Women of the World denounced the US aggression against the people of Vietnam and other peoples of Indochina and US interference in Korea; the aggression by Israel against the Arab countries; the tension in Europe and the fascist dictatorships in Portugal, Greece and Spain; the policy of Portuguese colonialism and the fascist and racist regimes of southern Africa; the blockade of Cuba; the threats to peace and security posed by the agents of cold war. Struggle for Peace and National Independence Six years after the adoption of that Appeal, the political map of the world has changed in favour of the forces of peace. democracy and national independence. The 7th Congress warmly congratulates our dear friends of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the Republic of South Vietnam on the historic victory over the aggressors, as well as our friends of Laos and Cambodia. 11 === [PDF page 13] === This victory, which they achieved together with the progressive forces of the world, was a major contribution to the attainment of peace and national independence. It warmly congratulates the delegations from Guinea-Bissau and the Cape Verde Islands, Mozambique and Angola, Sao Tome and Principe, which have won their national independence. It warmly congratulates our dear friends from Portugal and Greece, where fascism has been crushed. Our warm congratulations likewise go to our dear friends from Cuba who in recent years, together with their people, have laid firm foundations for the establishment of a socialist society. The strength and courage of the men and women who carried out the Cuban revolution has inspired growing feelings of admiration and solidarity throughout the world. The strength of these feelings in many Latin American countries has been such that the threats of US imperialism have been defied and a start has been made on piercing the criminal economic blockade against Cuba, which even today is being maintained by the United States, Six years after the adoption of that Appeal, the 7th Congress can salute a historic event, the signing of the final act of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe, the scene of which was Helsinki this July. Thirty years after the victory over Hitlerite fascism, the leading statesmen of Europe, the United States and Canada met on the continent where two world wars began to sign a document on the strengthening of peaceful co-existence which has met with an extremely favourable international response and is having a positive influence on the world-wide process of detente. The successful completion of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe is a victory for the forces of peace and Progress, a victory to which millions of women have contributed in their various countries with sensitivity, intelligence and determination. Peaceful co-existence opens the road to international disarmament, it means trade on the basis of equal rights for mutual advantage, including help for developing countries, and it can mean help for Positive economic development and alleviation of the crisis in the capitalist industrial countries. The events between the 6th and 7th Congresses show that it is Possible, by increasing activities for peace and national independence, to stabilize peace and to make the Process of detente irreversible. But it is necessary to keep fighting energetically to defeat the forces of reaction and war in the Middle East, Cyprus, South Korea, wherever the security, independence and dignity of the peoples are threatened. US imperialism, forced to withdraw from Indochina, has not changed its Political objectives. It is threatening to use nuclear weapons in Korea, reinforcing its military bases in Japan and trying to form a military alliance of the USA, Japan and Korea, The fight against the forces of imperialism, colonialism and neo-colonialism, zionism, fascism, racism and apartheid is being stepped up on the various continents. In Latin America the popular masses are showing their strength; the peoples that are on their way to achieving independence are defending their sovereignty and struggling for their economic liberation; and the peoples that are subjected to bloody tyranny are fighting to throw off their chains and achieve their freedom and national independence. In Japan, women are fighting alongside the rest of the people for the removal of US military bases and the abrogation of the so-called US-Japan Security Pact. Everywhere, the policy pursued by the imperialists with the aid of the CIA and other erganizations against democratically elected governments is meeting with increased resistance, 12 === [PDF page 14] === The World Congress of Peace Forces in Moscow in October 1973, to which the WIDF and its national organizations made such a great contribution, called on the peoples to bring about universal and complete disarmament, i.e. the complete banning of nuclear weapons and all weapons of mass destruction, the dissolution of military pacts and military bases on foreign soil, and the resolution of all conflicts via negotiations on the basis of respect for the protection of the fundamental rights of the peoples to national independence, sovereignty and self-determination, in order to bring about final and indivisible peace. This appeal is a commitment for the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it to continue their dynamic and creative work in the great struggle of the peoples for freedom, national independence, sovereignty.and peace, which is so closely bound up with the struggle for the rights of the peoples and women and the future of the coming generations. Solidarity Contributes to Victory During the years between the 6th and the 7th congresses, solidarity has taken on a new dimension. It is not possible in this report to reflect the magnitude of the moral, political and material solidarity extended to the women of Vietnam and the other peoples of Indochina. We can assert that this solidarity is a credit to the women of the whole world, and especially to our national organizations, who are its inspirers and tireless animators. Among its countless manifestations were the trip made by a WIDF delegation to the United States to demand that the government of that country end the war of aggression, and one to Saigon in 1974 to investigate the situation of the hundreds of thousands of political prisoners of the corrupt Thieu regime. The 6th WIDF Congress decided, as an expression of its deeply-felt solidarity with the people of Vietnam, to build a centre for the protection of mother and child. Today we can say that we have made progress. Thanks to international solidarity, the tremendous help of women in the socialist countries, and the indefatigable efforts of women in other countries, work can now start on the building of this centre. However, we must increase our efforts so that this work of solidarity may be brought to a conclusion inthe shortest possible time. We must also increase our aid to the women and children in South Vietnam in order to help them overcome the consequences of the war and US occupation. In 1971 the WIDF was the first international women’s organization to go to the liberated territories of Angola with its message of solidarity, a message that went also to Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and the Cape Verde Islands, supporting the struggle for national independence. Our solidarity continues to go out to the women, children and patriots of the former Portuguese colonies of Africa who are now in the process of reconstructing their countries following the successful wars of liberation. The solidarity with our friends in southern Africa in their unequal and difficult struggle for national independence against the racist and fascist Vorster and Smith regimes, which have made racial discrimination and apartheid into law, must become still stronger in order to hasten the conquest of their freedom. The WIDF delegation that visited South Africa in 1973 collected testimony on the resistance of the whole people to a regime that violates human dignity and is a threat to peace. Together with all democratic forces in the world, we emphatically demand the exclusion of South Africa fom the United Nations and the unconditional release of all political prisoners in South Africa. 13 === [PDF page 15] === We have never faltered in our solidarity with our friends in the Arab countries, in Particular with the Palestinian women, who are fighting for the unconditional withdrawal of Israeli troops from the occupied Arab territories and for the recognition of the national rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination. This solidarity found concrete expression in the three delegations that visited the Palestinian refugee camps in Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. The most recent, in 1973, was headed by our unforgettable Hertta Kuusinen. We highly appreciate the Participation of the women of the PDR of Yemen in the Progressive transformation of their country, and we assure them of our solidarity in their struggle for consolidation of the national independence of their country, for social Progress and peace. We affirm our solidarity with the women of Oman, Dhofar and other countries of the Arab Gulf in their struggle against imperialist and reactionary interference, for the elimination of foreign military bases in the region, and for their national independence, democracy and peace. We also support our Sudanese friends striving for the extension of democratic freedoms. Our friends in Cyprus, the hundreds of thousands of refugees and all the people can count on our fraternal solidarity at all times in their struggle for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of their homeland. The support for our friends of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, for the peaceful and independent reunification of their country, is expressed also in the call for the withdrawal of US troops from South Korea and an end to the acts of terrorism by the dictatorial regime in South Korea. During the years of fascist repression in Greece, there was no interruption in our campaign in favour of the political prisoners. A WIDF delegation vainly tried to visit Greece in 1974. A few months ago the delegation that was in Greece conveyed to our friends the support of the WIDF for the struggle for democratization of their homeland and the unconditional repatriation of all political emigres. There has been constant solidarity with the women and the people of Portugal. One of the most lucid fighters in their decades of struggle was our dear Maria Luisa Costa Diaz, member of the WIDF Council, who died so tragically. In remembering her, we remember the extraordinary contribution made by women to defeating fascism, ending the colonial war, and building a democratic and free Portugal. Today as always, in this new and no less difficult phase of their selfless struggle, confronting the forces of reaction inside and outside the country who want to destroy everything that the people have begun to create in the interest of their happiness, we are at their side. The solidarity of the WIDF has reached out to the prisons of Spain, to the thousands of homes broken by repression; it has reached out to save the lives of patriots and demand a general amnesty for the political prisoners and exiles. Now it must be intensified in support of the struggle for democracy in Spain. We understand the just cause of Northern Ireland: it has our warmest solidarity. The peoples of Latin America, who are fighting for a better life, are among those who benefit most from the solidarity of the WIDF and its national organizations. The women who, together with their peoples, are struggling for transformation of the structure responsible for underdevelopment and dependence, and who themselves have been robbed and exploited during centuries of foreign rule, have also received support from their sisters all over the world, The just cause of the people of Panama, firmly and resolutely defending the sovereignty of their canal zone, made into a colonial enclave by the Government of the 14 === [PDF page 16] === United States, has been given strong support by our Federation and the national organizations affiliated to it. The women and the people of Puerto Rico, a colony of US imperialism, who are courageously fighting for the independence of their country, have had the firm support of the women of the world. The struggle for national liberation, for the independence of the peoples subjected to the most brutal oppression by bloodthirsty tyrants in the service of imperialism, has always been given attention and solidarity by the WIDF. The women of Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Bolivia, Argentina and Haiti have always received solidarity in the campaigns for the release of the women imprisoned on political grounds and for an end to oppression. Chile has inspired a torrent of solidarity which continues to grow in all latitudes with the realization of what fascism means. The first international delegation to set Foot on Chilean soil after the coup was sent on WIDF initiative in January 1974, and this first testimonial, to be followed by so many others, was an instrument in the hands of our national organizations for organizing and mobilizing millions of women. We are convinced that this solidarity will help to overcome fascism and will help the people of Chile to regain their freedom “sooner rather than later”. Angela Davis, the symbol of the noble struggle of the people of the United States for freedom and progress, democracy and equality, won her freedom through a campaign of world solidarity in which the WIDF involved millions of women. Many applications have been made by the WIDF for the intervention of the UN Secretary-General, the Security Council, UNESCO, Pope Paul VI, the International Red Cross, WHO, UNICEF, governments, parliaments and other international organizations, supporting the solidarity actions of our national organizations. The UN Human Rights Division has received and reacted to documents from the WIDF denouncing violations of human rights wherever they have occurred. We deeply thank the national organizations for their solidarity. We regard it as one of our main responsibilities, and consider that it must become still greater. We particularly thank our friends of the socialist countries who have never relaxed their moral and material solidarity with those imprisoned and persecuted, with their families and their children, fraternally welcoming all those forced by repression to leave their homes and their countries. The Rights of Women The Appeal for Joint Action to Attain Women's Rights has been an important instrument for the mobilization and the action of the national organizations of the WIDF. Within the limits of this report, it is very difficult to go into detail on the work done in this sphere, which involves the whole programme of the WIDF. If we refer back to the eight meetings of the Bureau held in the course of this period— one of them an extraordinary meeting—and to the three Council meetings held between the 6th and 7th congresses in accordance with the WIDF Constitution, we can appreciate how our national organizations have carried out the tasks arising from the Appeal. The publication of the reports of each of the national organizations to the 7th Congress as an indispensable supplement to what has been drafted by the Secretariat will enable us to estimate the magnitude of the work they have done. We simply wish to point out that in the countries where progressive changes have come about in the life of the nation, these have been reflected in the legislation protecting women and children. A beginning has been made in the revaluation of the role of women in town and 15 === [PDF page 17] === country, giving them greater opportunities for development and creative participation in society. There has been an acceleration of the campaign against illiteracy, which in many cases is headed by our national organizations. The contributions of Angola, where the literacy campaign was conducted in the heat of battle for national independence; of India, where 200,000 women have been made literate in 1975, and of Sudan, received recognition from UNESCO when the Krupskaya Prize was awarded to the women's organizations of these countries. This work has had attentive aid from the national organizations in the socialist countries, which have provided grants for the training of teachers and donated the necessary school supplies. In many countries it can be seen that the women's movement is taking an active part in consolidating democracy and national independence and assuming concrete responsibilities in carrying out the plans of their governments. In other countries, the unfavourable conditions imposed by the lack of democratic rights and guarantees do not prevent the national organizations from finding ways of acting in defence of the rights of women and children, for democratic freedoms and national independence. Generally speaking, in the period between the 6th and the 7th congresses, there has been progress in the legislation protecting working women. Such protection has been extended to categories neglected in the past. There have been advances in the legal system relative to family rights, in accordance with the general interests of society. It is true that in many cases there is a wide gap between the text of the law and its ‘application, and that a consistent struggle for such application has enabled the national organizations of the WIDF to make real progress in this field. But it is clear that the unprecedented crisis affecting many countries, the inflation, unemployment, superexploitation, and deterioration of wages and living conditions, claim women as their first victims, accentuating the discrimination against them. One of the greatest achievements of socialist society is the absolute equality of rights between men and women in political and vocational life, in family relationships and in society, It is a source of inspiration for millions of women. The dynamic activity of the democratic women’s movement, its struggle to put an end to discrimination against and undervaluing of a formidable human potential, its correct interpretation of the “woman question” as a social question, has helped to enlarge the national organizations, expand their influence, and convert them into centres of attraction for new forces of women, many of them young, who are convinced that it is necessary to take action to achieve their rights. The permanent quest for suitable means of mobilizing and organizing the masses of women, helping to increase their awareness, and giving them confidence in their ability and strength has made the national organizations of the WIDF the authentic interpreters of their aspirations, A permanent exchange of experience among the national organizations could contribute to finding the best ways of extending their influence and organization, in order to make them true centres of unity and the most important organized force of women in each country. In countries where there is more than one organization belonging to the WIDF, it would be a great contribution to their mutual reinforcement if they were to find the necessary channels for co-ordinating their forces, or, better still, uniting them in a single organization. The WIDF and the United Nations On the basis of the activity of the national organizations, their reports, studies and demands, we have prepared our contributions and Proposals for the international, regional and national events in which we have taken part as well as for the UN and its 16 === [PDF page 18] === specialized agencies: the Economic-and Social Council, the commissions on the status of women, human rights and: social development, UNESCO, and the International Labour Organization; the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in consultative status with ECOSOC, and the Special Committee of International Non-Governmental Organizations on Human Rights, whose Sub-committee on the Status of Women is chaired by the WIDF. With the aid of experts from the national organizations, we have prepared and submitted concrete information and proposals to them which have been useful for our international action for the advancement of women. The questions to which we have called attention concerned the protection of working mothers; equal opportunities and treatment for working women; improvement of the living and working conditions of women in rural areas; protection of women and children in emergency and armed conflict in the struggle for peace, self-determination, national liberation and independence; the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms; the condemnation of racism, colonialism and fascism; the abolition of illiteracy and access to technical and vocational training for women; continuing education, adult education, the rights of children to education, and education for peace, as well as application of the Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination against ‘Women and its conversion into a convention. At the same time we have taken action for implementation of the UN conventions, resolutions and declarations on the status of women. Participation in the UN specialized agencies has enabled the WIDF to make known the universal character of its work for the progress of women and the interdependence of this work with action for peace, national independence and unlimited respect for human rights. We can assert that WIDF actions on the national, regional and international levels have increased its prestige. This prestige derives, moreover, from a correct conception of the democratic women’s movement as an integral part of the forces for progress, national independence and peace. The WIDF will continue to improve its co-opération with ECOSOC and UNESCO and to make representations to the ILO and other UN agencies. In view of the requests for aid from the national organizations in the newly independent states, it will be necessary to study the possibility of closer co-operation with the United Nations Development Fund, to set up training centres for the health, literacy, education, handicrafts and other services, and for leadership training. More regular co-operation with the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the FAO and with the UN regional commissions will enable the WIDF to promote common action on problems to which it gives special attention. The contribution of the national organizations to carrying out the programmes of the ILO, UNESCO and the regional commissions of ECOSOC and establishing permanent co-operation with them can also contribute to the implementation of these programmes. We must also study the best way of working within the NGO Conference in order to promote its activities for progress and peace, and the full participation of women in the economic, social, political and cultural life of their countries. International Women’s Year Regional Conferences, Seminars, Colloquia, Study Trips The WIDF Council meeting in Varna in 1972 decided that every effort would be made to have the WIDF proposal to the 24th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women for observance of an International Women's Year put into effect. 2 6419-2 17 === [PDF page 19] === At the Havana Bureau meeting in April 1973, we welcomed the resolution of the UN General Assembly proclaiming 1975 the International Women’s Year. The Bureau pointed out at that time that the International Women's Year would have to stimulate co-operation among national and international women’s organizations in carrying out joint activities in all fields wherever this is necessary, and that such activities could culminate in the convening in 1975 of a large world congress that would be the start of a new phase in the struggle for the rights of women and the future of the rising generations, for national independence, social progress, democratic freedoms and peace. Since then, WIDF activity has centred on the application of the decisions of its governing bodies in this connection. We consider it important to deal in more detail with some of the conclusions that can be drawn from the experience of this period. They will be complemented by others resulting from the many-faceted work of our national organizations. We would like to refer particularly to the seminars we have held, which are one of the most important contributions of the WIDF and its national organizations to the International Women's Year and the preparations for the World Congress. These seminars dealt with the objectives of the International Women’s Year, equality, development and peace. The starting-point for the discussion was the Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade. The problems dealt with at these seminars, such as the elimination of illiteracy among women, their access to jobs and vocational training, education and culture, their integration in development, their role in the upbringing of the next generations, their contribution to peace and national independence, were considered in close connection with the most acute problems of the peoples in the regions and continents. Such an approach made it possible to assert that in order to advance in winning women's rights it is necessary to defeat the forces that are opposed to peace, the forces that maintain economic and social injustice, violate human rights, and support racist and fascist regimes, colonialism and neo-colonialism. It was emphatically pointed out, moreover, that equality of women with men and their full integration in the development of society demand transformations of a progressive nature that favour such integration. Also stressed was the great contribution made by women to the process of detente, to the policy of peaceful coexistence, and to action for disarmament and peace, a contribution that strengthens the democratic forces and at the same time furthers the struggle for equality of men and women. Here, figures are very revealing: the Algeria Seminar of March 1974 was attended by representatives of 33 Arab and African countries, and it was prepared in co-operation with the Pan-African Women's Organization; the Peru seminar for South America in October 1974, held in co-operation with a broad national committee, had delegates from twelve countries as well os 500 delegates from the host country; the New York seminar in May 1975, which was held at UN headquarters in co-operation with the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, and which was addressed by prominent members of the United Nations Secretariat, was attended by 31 US nongovernmental organizations, and the WIDF delegation was made up of representatives of national organizations in 25 countries on all continents; the London Seminar in July 1975, to which social organizations and experts contributed, had delegates from 19 European countries and five international organizations; the seminar in Alma Ata, Soviet Socialist Republic of Kazakhstan, in July 1975, was attended by representatives of 40 women’s organizations in 26 Asian countries, five international organizations, 18 === [PDF page 20] === UNESCO, and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific; the Havana seminar in September 1975 was attended by delegations from 24 countries in the Caribbean and Central America. Several of these seminars were sponsored by UNESCO. A total of 138 countries took part in these seminars, a figure expressive of the enormous organizational work done. Studies and investigations were carried out in each country, and the national problems most urgently in need of solution were analysed. All this made it possible to adopt conclusions and recommendations that are highly important for the continuation of the struggle for the rights of women and at the same time constitute one of the most important contributions to the preparatory work for the World Congress in Berlin, GDR. The study of the theoretical problems of the status of women, the conclusioms and recommendations of each seminar caught the attention of public opinion. They were very significant for the national organizations of the countries were they took place, increasing their prestige and authority. This work also made it possible to publicize the objectives of the International Women’s Year widely in each country, to enlist new forces and to arouse the interest of broad sections of public opinion in the problems of women. The WIDF also took an active part in the Symposium of the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization, held in Alexandria in March of this year, devoted to International Women’s Year. It was attended by representatives of 64 women’s organizations, solidarity committees, and international and regional organizations. The WIDF also participated in a seminar held in Somalia in April this year by the Pan-African Women's Organization, as well as congresses, sympdsia, meetings and seminars of the WFTU, the WFDY, the IUS, the IFTU and other organizations devoted to the International Women's Year. The seminars improved our frank and friendly co-operation with the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, the Pan-African Women's Organization, the Federation of Arab Women, the Women's Section of AAPSO, and other organizations. They enabled us to establish new ties with organizations that were taking part in WIDF events for the first time. In all cases, they brought out points we had in common and a common desire to foster such co-operation. The experience of the Regional Seminar for Central America and Panama for the training of leaders, held in Costa Rica in February this year with the co-operation of the Costa Rica Women’s Alliance and the Federation of Cuban Women, demonstrates not only the appropriateness of such seminars but also the importance of co-operation. The international seminars of the same character in Berlin in 1970 and in Varna in 1972 demonstrated the importance of common action. The seminars were also a magnificent tribune of solidarity, a solidarity that did not remain circumscribed by regional or continental borders but acquired universal dimensions. Growing Unity and Co-operation The trend towards co-operation and unity had been demonstrated earlier at various WIDF events: at the literacy seminars in Sudan in 1970 and India in 1971; at the 1970 meeting in Ystad, Sweden, on European Security and Co-operation; at the 1972 meeting of journalists in Tihany, Hungarian People’s Republic, organized by our journal Women of the Whole World, which was attended by delegates from 21 European countries who agreed on the need to promote mutual understanding, co-operation and friendship 2 19 === [PDF page 21] === among the peoples and take action for peace; at the women's meeting held within the context of the Assembly of Representatives of Public Opinion on Security and Cooperation in Europe, held in Brussels in June 1972, attended by delegates and observers from 23 European countries representing six international and 38 national organizations; at the Santiago de Chile seminar in October 1972, attended by delegates from 33 countries; at the Dipoli Conference in August 1973,. at which representatives from 26 countries of Europe were present, and the women's meeting held in Moscow on the occasion of the World Congress of Peace Forces in October 1973, a meeting that gave great attention to preparations for the International Women’s Year. This trend towards co-operation and unity has been manifest in all the activities carried out in the period under review. We could see it during the study trips made to all continents to find out more about the concrete problems of our organizations, to make new contacts, to penetrate more deeply into the themes to which women respond most readily, to study the programmes of other organizations in each country and look for the best roads to common action where such action is possible, and to intensify the struggle for women's rights. March 8, which has become one of the biggest manifestations of unity, friendship and solidarity in the period covered by this report, also testifies to this trend. This year it was a very special day. The UN officially inaugurated the programme of the International Women’s Year on the 65th anniversary of International Women's Day. The multiple development of the women's movement was very much in evidence on that day. A day of action and struggle for millions of women and girls who have to win their equality, a day of celebration for those who already have it, it was observed by new and broad sections of the public for the first time. All the March 8 events were devoted to the International Women's Year and the World Congress in Berlin. For the Rights and Happiness of Children The ‘same can be said of International Children’s Day, observed this year for the 25th time. Here too, there was on increase in the co-operation with various youth and professional organizations concerned, as we are, with the problems of the child. The development of such co-operation at the national and international levels will enable us to advance towards our proclaimed objective of having the Declaration of the Rights of the Child converted into a convention binding on all States. The common activities we can undertake with the youth, parents’, teachers’ and other organizations will be a great contribution to achieving these objectives. The co-operation with youth organizations, as the contribution of the WIDF to the World Youth Festival in Berlin in 1973 and their co-operation with us in this International Women's Year have shown, accords with the common interest in advancing the demands of girls, who are doubly discriminated against as youth and as women. Such co-operation has also been intensified with all the international democratic organizations: the World Peace Council, the World Federation of Trade Unions, the International Union of Students, the International Federation of Teachers’ Unions, the International Organization of Journalists, and with the women’s organizations referred to above. The publications of the WIDF during the period under study have reflected this trend to co-operation and unity. 20 === [PDF page 22] === WIDF Publications Documents and Information published not only the resolutions of the Bureau and Council meetings, but also evaluations of the activities carried out jointly with other organizations. The bulletins on specific problems, such as the one on “Defence of Human Rights”, containing all the documentary material received from the national organizations and sent regularly to international, regional and national institutions, have been an instrument for mobilization and co-operation in the struggle against fascism, racism and apartheid and against the violation of human rights. News in Brief, whichi passes on the experiences of the national organizations, propagates their work for unity and co-operation at the national level in defence of very concrete demands. Propaganda work on the basis of more regular information could cover all the experiences of the national organizations on certain vital problems, such as their action for the convening of the World Disarmament Conference; for detente and peaceful coexistence, for the dissolution of foreign military bases. These problems should be dealt with in their relationship to the prospects for a real improvement in the life of women, children and families. Such information would also make it possible to prepare studies on specific situations such as exist in the Middle East, Southern Africa, Spain, the Latin American countries tuled by dictatorships, South Korea, and so on, which would help to intensify action for human rights, democratic freedoms and peace. With the booklet published for the 30th anniversary of the WIDF—a-brief outline of its work—we hope we have made available to the national organizations a publication that will contribute to their collaboration with other organizations. Women of the Whole World, whose 25th birthday we are celebrating, has also mirrored the trend to unity. The Editorial Board has publicized the decisions of the leading bodies of the WIDF and reported on all the activities and events in the life of the organizations relating to each of the points in its programme. The journal, published in six languages, has been expanded by eight colour pages. It published a special supplement for the World Youth Festival in 1973, a documentary supplement on the Palestinian refugee camps in 1974, and a special issue for the International Women's Year and the 7th WIDF Congress in 1975. Women of the Whole World has made a substantial contribution to elucidation of the problems of women and children, the struggle for peace and national independence, and solidarity with all the peoples fighting for their freedom. It has contributed to a rich exchange of experience among the national organizations, and it expects greater cooperation of them so that it can better reflect their experience. The International Women’s Year and the World Congress have been dealt with in each issue of the journal, and it proposes to devote its coming issues to oll. the themes, the work and the conclusions of the Berlin World Congress and the 7th Congress. With the aid of the national organizations, we want to make the journal known to all those with whom we are engaged in common work. Its circulation has increased, and it teaches a wide variety of institutions, cultural centres, universities, trade unions and mass organizations. But this is still not enough. We must make it a powerful tool of propaganda for our programme and our concept of the problems of women, since its pages reflect objective realities, enabling us to see all that women give to human progress and the whole stock of energy, intelligence, sacrifice and heroism that they place at the service of well-being, the progress of the peoples, and peace. Women of the Whole World has not only publicized experiences in co-operation and unity, it has itself been the vehicle of this co-operation. The constant enrichment of its 21 === [PDF page 23] === content must continue, for as one of the fundamental instruments of WIDF propaganda activities, it must make a very important contribution to WIDF work. Preparations for the World Congress for International Women’s Year One of the most important examples of the trend to unity and co-operation is the composition of the Committees for the International Women’s Year and the Preparatory Committees for the World Congress in Berlin formed in many countries. The democratic and progressive social and political forces, the organizations that regard the woman ‘question as a social problem of concern to all, play an active role in many of these committees. In many countries, on the occasion of the International Women's Year, governmentlevel commissions were set up and have co-operated closely with the non-governmental organizations in the activities for the International Women’s Year and the preparations for the World Congress. The committees formed by the non-governmental organizations are made up of women’s, professional, trade union, youth, peace, religious and parent-teacher organizations as well as political, cultural and social personalities, so that their composition precisely reflects that of the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress, established at Tihany last November and since joined by a number of important organizations. The result$ of the World Congress for International Women's Year in Berlin, GDR, will permit us to evaluate the magnitude of the work done in common, to which the WIDF has given the best of its energy, working actively and devotedly throughout the process of preparations for the Congress, a process distinguished by a frank, friendly and respectful collaboration that guaranteed its success. Finally, the International Women's Year and the work preparatory to the World Congress led to large unity actions, promoted the incorporation of new social sectors in the struggle for the rights of women, and strengthened the existing bonds of co-operation and understanding. Such co-operation can and must grow and become stronger. There must be continued joint action to apply the conclusions of the Congress and carry out the Plan of Action adopted by the United Nations Conference of the International Women's Year, held in Mexico City in June and July of this year. The WIDF and the United Nations World Plan of Action The Declaration and Plan of Action of the United Nations Conference of the International Women's Year in Mexico deal with fundamental problems that have to be resolved if women are to achieve equality. In this they coincide with the conclusions of the Seminars we have organized. To create favourable conditions for the achievement of women’s rights, these documents state, it is indispensable to establish a new international economic order, of which the Charter of Economic Rights and Duties of States is a fundamental element, based on equity, sovereign equality, interdependence, mutual advantage, peaceful coexistence and co-operation between states, whatever their social and economic systems. They state that international co-operation and peace are conditional on national liberation, economic and political independence, the elimination of colonialism and neo-colonialism, fascism and zionism, foreign occupation, apartheid, racism and discrimination in all its forms, as well as recognition of human dignity. 22 === [PDF page 24] === They confirm that equality of rights, opportunities and responsibilities of men and women mean their equal worth as human beings; that the full participation of women in national development and in the maintenance of world peace must be guaranteed, The action that must be taken during the United Nations Decade for Women and Development 1975-1985—approved by the Conference—includes the contribution of women to development planning, their access to education and vocational training, not only as a fundamental right but also as a decisive factor in social progress; equal opportunities for women in all spheres of work and their integration into the labour force; the right to health, to conscious maternity, to decent living conditions, equality of rights, opportunities and responsibilities of husband and wife in the family as an important agent in social, political and cultural evolution. The Plan of Action, the Declaration and the Resolution approved at the sixtieth session of the International Labour Conference of the International Labour Organization in June, on “Equality of opportunities and treatment for women workers”, coincide in all points with the instruments adopted at the United Nations Conference. They say that 1975 must be the starting point for a women’s decade in which the ILO, in co-operation with the governments, would dedicate itself to bringing about world-wide action for more ample and diversified vocational training for women and to have them better integrated in the development process. They declare that it is necessary to pursue a true policy of economic and social development with concrete measures of national planning that will permit the unfolding of the woman's personality and her absolute equality of opportunities and treatment. The WIDF, for its part, took the opportunity to speak at the United Nations Conference about its contributions and undertakings for the International Women's Year, stressing the significance of the Berlin World Congress as a forum of world public opinion and culminating event of the year. The WIDF evaluated the Draft Plan of Action, and on the basis of the activity and experience of the national organizations it submitted a document containing observations and proposals which are included in the Plan of Action approved by the Conference. It gave its full support to the proclamation of a “decade of women and development” and pledged its contribution to channelling und uniting the efforts towards its success. It stressed the need for the UN General Assembly to devote a special session to evaluating the progress achieved during the International Women’s Year, and deciding on future action to achieve its objectives. The decade that has begun offers a wide field of opportunities to promote women’s rights, and the 7th Congress, when it decides on the tasks for the future, should give consideration to the United Nations Plan of Action as a fundamental instrument. On this basis, concerted action can be undertaken on the national, regional and international levels, with governmental and inter-governmental agencies where feasible, with the United Nations system, and with all the organizations interested in promoting women's rights. The Mexico Conference demonstrated once again the decisive influence on contemporary social development of the governments that contributed to the preparation and adoption of a Plan of Action that corresponds to the interests of all mankind. The supposedly “apolitical” positions that were expressed in the course of the Conference failed in their purpose of separating the problems of women from their sociopolitical context. It also demonstrated that the woman question is a social question and that eradicating discrimination against women is the task of all democratic anti-imperialist and peace forces. The International Women's Year and the Mexico Conference underlined the social 23 === [PDF page 25] === status of women in the socialist countries, where women have acquired equal rights and everything is done so that women can better harmonize their vocational, social and family obligations. They also demonstrated the importance and strength of the democratic women’s movement and its influence on the life of society, as the organized form of expression of millions of women who are participating more and more in the life of their peoples. The activity of the WIDF, full of creative experiences, which we have analysed in this brief synopsis, has shown the growth and influence of the national organizations; has permitted the expansion of their bonds of unity and co-operation with other organizations; has confirmed the universality and validity of their programmes; and has been an important contribution to the development of the democratic and progressive women’s movement all over the world. It has presented the problems affecting women in their three-fold status as workers, mothers and citizens in accordance with the demands of our time; has contributed to raising the level of awareness of large masses of women, involving them in the struggle for their rights by giving a precise evaluation of their problems, situating them among the general problems that the whole of society has to resolve. 3 These experiences offer new and promising prospects for still greater co-operation with other organizations, as shown in the period between the 6th and 7th congresses. The documents approved by the UN World Conference of the International Women’s Year constitute a magnificent programme of activities for the next ten years. With the aid of the national organizations, we should propose to make this programme the property of the greatest possible number of women and of their organizations, and we should work together with them to fulfil it. The wide circulation and detailed study of this programme should be complemented by an evaluation of the outcome of the International Women's Year and the conclusions of the World Congress—which we have always considered to be the culminating event of the year—so that we can frame future programmes of action. The seminars, colloquia, conferences, bilateral, zonal and regional meetings, study trips, solidarity campaigns, etc. have proved effective in stimulating the struggle for the rights of women and children, in defence of democratic freedoms and human rights, for national independence and social progress, for peace and universal disarmament. With regard to the great tasks stemming from our report, previous experience must be taken into account so that our action can be continued and perfected. Tasks for the Future The prospective plan should contain concrete themes that correspond to the aspirations of women, the reality of the contemporary world, and the interests of the democratic movement. We can be ambitious in drafting this plan, for our balance shows that we fulfil the tasks we set ourselves with the contribution of the national organizations. It will be a formidable propagandistic, mobilizing and organizing instrument that will advance the struggle for the rights we still have to win, for a more just world, for a better life. Continuation of the very broad co-operation achieved in many countries by the national committees for the International Women’s Year and in the preparations for the World Congress would be in the interests of all, in applying the UN Plan of Action. The 7th Congress draws the conclusions from the road travelled, from struggles and successes, but it also shows the road that still has to be travelled in order to put an end to the violation of human rights, oppression and the policy of aggression. 24 === [PDF page 26] === We are faithful to the programme bequecathed us by the founders of the WID F, which continues to inspire us in our day-to-day work. We thank all the national organizations for their outstanding contribution ty <arrying out the tasks we have set ourselves in this period, and salute the intelligence, devotion and self-sacrifice of millions of women who have helped to turn our program me into reality. We welcome the new organizations that have made our family larger in the period between the 6th and 7th congresses. We thank you all, and express once again our gratitude for the invaluable aid given to the WIDF by the national organizations in the socialist countries. They have res ponded favourably to every appeal, and have shown with their wonderful and tangible reality that it is possible to achieve the full dignity of women. Certain of expressing the feelings of all, we once again thank the Democratic Women's League of Germany, which not only offered Berlin, capital of the GDR, as venue for the 7th Congress, but has shared in the work of the Secretariat on a permanent basis, For the hospitality and aid of the Democratic Women’s League of Germany, our thanks. is owing to its President, the Government, and all the people of the German Dermocratic Republic. New and great victories must crown the future actions of the WIDF, the guide and inspiration for millions of women who are daily joining in the great and wonderful battle for our truth, for a happy childhood, for solidarity and friendship, to widen the road to. freedom and peace. === [PDF page 27] === Meetings of the WIDF National, regional and international meetings, seminars and conferences attended by the WIDF in the period between the 6th and 7th Congresses of the WIDF 21-24/6/69 Berlin, GDR July 1969 Rostock, GDR 5-8/8/69 Jasi, SR Romania 2-15/9/69 Cairo, UAR 6-10/9/69 Stockholm, Sweden 13-14/9/69 Berlin, GDR 29/9—1/10/69 Budapest, Hungarian PR 8/10/69 Berlin, GDR 1112/10/69 Stockholm, Sweden 18—19/10/69 Paris, France 11-26/10/69 Budapest, Hungarian PR 20-23/10/69 Paris, France 26/11/69 Berlin, GDR November 1969 26 World Conference for Peace, convened by the World Peace Council 12th Baltic Week Seminar on the Effects of Scientific and Technical Progress on the Status of Women, organized by the UN Seminar on the Creation of Regional Commissions for Human Rights convened by the UN and the Government of the UAR Child Welfare Conference, convened by the International Union for Child Welfare Second Conference of the Permanent International Committee for Recognition of the GDR and Security in Europe Seminar for the Mahatma Gandhi Centenary sponsored by the World Peace Council and the International Federation of Resistance Movements Consultative meeting between the WIDF Secretariat and representatives of the Secretariat of the World Peace Council on prospects for co-operation between the two organizations Meeting of the International Liaison Committee of the Stockholm World Conference on Vietnam, initiated by the World Peace Council Twenty-fifth anniversary of the Union of French Women’s journal “Heures Claires” and colloquium on women in the family, work, marriage and cultural life Seventh Conference of the World Federation of Trade Unions Twelfth Conference of Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) in consultative status with UNESCO Meeting of Experts on the construction of the Mother and Child Welfare Centre in Hanoi, convened by the WIDF Secretariat Tour of African and Arab countries by a representative of the WIDF Secretariat in preparation for the Regional Seminar on the Training of Cadres to Combat Illiteracy among Women, held by the WIDF in February 1970 in Khartoum in co-operation with the Sudanese Women’s Association and with the support of UNESCO === [PDF page 28] === November 1969 29/11-1/12/69 Vienna, Austria 13-15/12/69 Khartoum, Sudan December 1969 Prague, CSSR 20-25/10/69 Amsterdam, Netherlands 1-7/11/69 Kuwait, Kuwait 3-7/11/69 Rome, Italy 12~13/11/69 Geneva, Switzerland 12-14/11/69 Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia 20—23/11/69 Budapest, Hungarian PR 12~20/1/70 Marakesh, Morocco 17-18/1/70 Stockholm, Sweden 18—28/1/70 Colombo, Ceylon 19-20/1/70 Stockholm, Sweden 21/1/70 Rome, Italy 22/1/70 Berlin, GDR Twelfth International Leipzig Documentary and Short Film Week International Conference for Security and Co-operation in Europe, sponsored by the international monthly journal “SYNTHESES” Meeting of the World Peace Council Presidium Consultative meeting between the secretariats of the WIDF and the World Federation of Trade Unions on pros pects of co-operation between the two organizations, particularly with regard to the rights of working women Festival of the Tenth Muse and Colloquium on the Production of Films by Youth for Youth, sponsored by the International Centre of Films for Children and Youth, WIDF award on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the declaration of the Rights of the Child Meeting of Experts on “Equal Technical and Vocational Training Opportunities for Women and Girls in the Arab Countries”, sponsored by UNESCO Fourth Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN Conference of NGOs in consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Seminar on Family Planning, sponsored by the Conference for Social Activities of Yugoslav Women International Conference for the Rights of the Child on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, sponsored by the International Committee of Children’s and Adolescents Movements attached to the World Federation of Democratic Youth Regional Conference of Ministers of Education and Planning of the Arab countries on Vocational and Technical Training in the Arab States, sponsored by UNESCO. Meeting of the International Liaison Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam, initiated by the World Peace Council Third Seminar of NGOs in consultative status with UNESCO on literacy as a factor in civic and political education for women, organized by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts Meeting of representatives of the international organizations that attended the World Peace Conference in Berlin, June 1969, convened by the World Peace Council Preparatory meeting of the Committee in support of the Arab Peoples, initiated by the World Peace Council Preparatory meeting for an international conference in support of the liberation movements of the Portuguese colonies, sponsored by the World Peace Council 27 === [PDF page 29] === 21-24/1/70 Berlin, GDR 31/1-9/2/70 Khartoum, Sudan 17-21/2/70 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 17-21/2/70 Moscow, USSR March 1970 10/4/70 Berlin, GDR April 1970 2--3/5/70 Frankfurt-on-Main, FRG 8-10/5/70 Dresden, GDR 19-21/5/70 Cairo, UAR 29-30/5/70 Montevideo, Uruguay 2-12/6/70 Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia 16—18/6/70 Ystad, Sweden 22/6—5/7/70 27-29/6/70 Rome, Italy 23/6—7/7/70 Kitwa, Zambia 1-9/7/70 Geneva, Switzerland 28 WIDF Bureau Meeting Seminar on the training of cadres to combat illiteracy among women, held by the WIDF in co-operation with the Sudanese Women’s Union with UNESCO support Regional Conference of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC on development prospects in Africa within the framework of the Second UN Development Decade International Symposium for the Lenin Centenary sponsored by the Committee of Soviet Women Tour of northern European countries by a WIDF representative in preparation for the meeting of women and women's organizations on European Security in Ystad (une 1970) and to initiate a campaign of solidarity for the mother and child welfare centre in Hanoi World Congress of Teachers, convened by the International Federation of Teachers’ Trade Unions WIDF delegation to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam International Seminar on fascism, neo-nazism, sponsored by the World Peace Council and the Peace Movement in the FRG Statutory General Assembly of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People, followed by a colloquium on the humanist presentation of man in children's films, cinema and television, and the philosophical and aesthetic principles of this presentation International Conference in support of the people of Laos in its struggle against US imperialist aggression, sponsored by the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization (AAPSO) Second National Conference of Working Women of Uruguay, convened by the Co-ordinating Commission of Uruguayan Women United Nations Seminar on “The role of youth in promoting and protecting human rights” Consultative meeting of women and women’s organizations on Security and Co-operation in Europe, sponsored by the WIDF WIDF friendship visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea International conference in support of the Peoples of the Portuguese Colonies, initiated by the World Peace Council United Nations Seminar on “The realization of economic and social rights with particular reference to developing countries” Thirty-second International UNESCO Education Confer-- ence on reducing school drop-outs === [PDF page 30] === 15-19/7/70 Helsinki, Finland 17-22/7/70 Bogota, Colombia 20-25/7/70 Tunis, Tunisia 6-31/7/70 Geneva, Switzerland 28/7-8/8/70 Copenhagen, Denmark 9-18/7/70 New York, USA 9-18/7/70 Versailles, France July 1970 Rostock, GDR July 1970 26-27/8/70 Tokyo, Japan September 1970 31/8/70 Vienna, Austria 3-5/9/70 Potsdam, GDR 8-21/9/70 Moscow, USSR 16~28/9/70 Milan, Italy 28/9—1/10/70 Varna, PR Bulgaria 3-4/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 5-9/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 8/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR Ninth Congress of the International Association of.Democratic Lawyers Congress of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom on “The role of women in a world in crisis” Seminar on Family Law in Africa, organized by the International Federation of Women Lawyers in co-operation with the All African Women's Conference and the National Union of Tunisian Women Forty-ninth Session of the United Nations Economnic and Social Council World Conference on Agricultural Education and Training, convened by FAO, ILO and UNESCO World Youth Assembly on the 25th Anniversary of the United Nations for Peace, Progress and International Cooperation, sponsored by the UN World Trade Union Conference in Solidarity with the Peoples and the Workers of Indochina, convened by the World Federation of Trade Unions 13th Baltic Week Tour of rch ponies by a WIDF delegate to organize a meeting of Arab women, on the initiative of the Iraqi Women’s League 16th Mothers’ Congress, organized by the Movernent of Japanese Mothers Delegation of experts sent by the WIDF to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam for the construction of the mother and child welfare centre in Hanoi Thirteenth General Assembly of the World Veterans Federation Enlarged meeting of the Executive of the World Peace Council Seminar on participation of women in the economic life of their country, sponsored by the United Nations in cooperation with the Government of the USSR Symposium on “The contribution of the co-operative movement to the integration of the rural family into modern society”, sponsored by the International Co-operative Alliance World Conference on the problems of young workers, convened by the World Federation of Trade Unions WIDF Bureau meeting WIDF Council meeting Lenin Centenary Celebration, organized by the WIDF 29 === [PDF page 31] === 9/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 10/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 10/10/70 Moscow, USSR 12/10-14/11/70 Paris, France 15-20/10/70 Berlin, GDR 16—18/10/70 New Delhi, India 26—31/10/70 Prague, CSSR 26/10—4/11/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 27—29/10/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 27/10-5/1 1/70 Budapest, Hungarian PR 27—29/10/70 Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia 1/11/70 Santiago, Chile 9-11/11/70 Tripoli, Lybia 21-28/11/70 Leipzig, GDR 23-27/11/70 Warsaw, PR Poland 28-30/11/70 Stockholm, Sweden 2-3/12/70 Potsdam, GDR 2-4/12/70 Vienna, Austria 8-14/12/70 30 Celebration of the 25th anniversary of the formation of the WIDF Meeting of leaders of national organizations, organized by the WIDF World Federation of Trade Unions 25th Anniversary Celebrations 16th UNESCO General Conference First WIDF Seminar of representatives of women’s organizations, organized by the WIDF with the support of the Democratic Women’s League of Germany (DFD) Meeting of the Presidium of the World Peace Council Fourth International Trades Conference of the Textile, Clothing, Leather and Fur Workers’ Trade Unions International of the World Federation of Trade Unions 8th Conference of the World Federation of Democratic Youth, convened on the 25th anniversary of its formation 3rd Conference of the International Committee of Children’s and Adolescents’ Movements of the World Federation of Democratic Youth (CIMEA) 4th General Conference of the International Bureau for Youth Travel and Exchange of the World Federation of Democratic Youth 8th International Tenth Muse competition and international seminar on evaluation of films made by children, sponsored by the International Centre of Films for Children (Greetings) Inaugural ceremony for President Salvador Allende, Chile —invitation from the Women’s Front of the Unidad Popular 9th Council Meeting of the Afro-Asian People’s Solidarity Organization 13th Leipzig International Documentary and Short Film Week for Cinema and Television International symposium on the educational role of the family in the world today, sponsored by the Ministry for National Education of the People’s Republic of Poland in co-operation with UNESCO World Conference on Indochina, sponsored by the Stockholm Vietnam Conference Seminar on Problems of the Latin American People’s Struggle against Imperialism and for Peace, sponsored by the GDR Peace Council in co-operation with the World Peace Council Conference of officials of the Democratic Women’s League of Austria 2nd meeting of the UNESCO International Advisory Committee for Out-of-school Education === [PDF page 32] === 27—30/12/70 Salem, India 28/12/70-2/1/71 New Delhi, India 4-9/1/71 Havana, Cuba 13-15/1/71 Helsinki, Finland 22-23/1/71 Tel Aviv, Israel 3-10/2/71 Bratislava, CSSR 13-17/2/71 Kuwait, Kuwait 14-18/2/71 Helsinki, Finland 16—17/2/71 Geneva, Switzerland 18/2—30/5/71 22/2-26/3/71 Geneva, Switzerland 8/3/71 Cairo, ARE 20/3/71 Basel, Switzerland 3-4/4/71 Nicosia, Cyprus 17-22/4/71 Baghdad, Iraq 19-20/4/71 Rome, Italy 22-24/4/71 Brazzaville, PR Congo 13-16/5/71 Budapest, Hungarian PR 7th Congress of the National Federation of Indian Women 18th International Conference of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom 7th Congress of the International Organization of Journalists (Greetings) Consultation between representatives of the WIDF Secretariat and representatives of the World Peace Council Congress of the Movement of Democratic Women in Israel 10th Congress of the International Union of Students 2nd International Symposium on the question of Palestine, organized by the General Palestinian Students’ Union and the Kuwait Students’ Society (Greetings) International Students’ Conference, sponsored by the International Union of Students and the Finnish National Students’ Union Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disormament (ECOSOC), WIDF delegation to the Democratic People’s Republic of Algeria, the Republic of Mali, the Republic of Guinea, the People’s Republic of Congo, the Republic of Zambia, Angola, and the United Republic of Tanzania 27th Session of the ECOSOC Commission on Human Rights Symposium on Racial Discrimination in Israel sponsored by the General Union of Palestinian Women in Cairo Three-country meeting of women from France, Switzerland and the Federal Republic of Germany on Problems of European Security, and for the release of Angela Davis (marking the 25th anniversary of the WIDF) (Greetings) 4th Congress of the Pancyprian Federation of Women's Organizations Congress of the General Union of Iraqi Women (Greetings) Preparatory meeting for the International Conference for Peace and Justice in the Middle East, sponsored by the National Peace Council of ARE (Greetings) International Conference for Solidarity with the Portuguese Colonies, sponsored by the World Federation of Democratic Youth and the Pan-African Youth Movement Meeting of the World Peace Council 31 === [PDF page 33] === 44-16/5/71 Paris, France 15-16/5/71 Goteborg, Sweden 31/5-7/6/71 Singapore 2/6/71 Berlin, GDR 16-29/6/71 Yaounde, Cameroon 23-24/6/71 Damascus, Syrian AR 29—30/6/71 Geneva, Switzerland 30/6—2/7/71 Paris, France 2/7/71 Geneva, Switzerland 3/7-7/8/71 Geneva, Switzerland 11-18/7/71 Rostock, GDR 17-25/7/71 Brazzaville, PR Congo 27/7-9/8/71 Libreville, Gabun 17/8/71 Tokyo, Jopan 1-7/8/71 30/8—2/9/71 Zagreb, SFR Yugoslavia 6-8/9/71 Valparaiso, Chile 10-13/9/71 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 32 Congress of the Union of French Women Congress of the Swedish Women's Association (SKV) 3rd Regional Conference of Education and Economic Planning Ministers of UNESCO Member States in Asia, sponsored by UNESCO (Documentation) Solidarity meeting in support of the Arab Peoples, sponsored by the GDR Afro-Asian Solidarity Committee Seminar on Combatting and Eliminating Racial Discrimination, sponsored by the ECOSOC Human Rights Commission 10th Session of the Executive Committee of the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization Meeting of the ECOSOC Special NGO Committee on Disarmament Meeting of the NGO Standing Committee (ECOSOC) Meeting of the presidents of Women’s International Non- Governmental Organizations (WINGO) on Mobilizing Public Opinion for the 2nd UN Development Decade, convened by the International Federation of University Women Meeting of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on Implementation of the Programme for the 2nd UN Development Decade with special reference to problems of youth and women 14th Baltic Week Seminar on Vocational Preparation of African Women, sponsored by the All African Women’s Conference Regional Seminar on Participation of Women in Economic Life, sponsored by the ECOSOC Commission on Human Rights 17th World Conference against A and H Bombs, sponsored by the Japanese Council against A and H Bombs (Greetings) Transnational Action Week of the International League for Disarmament and Peace Seminar on local communities and child welfare, sponsored by the International Union of Child Welfare (Greetings) Meeting of the Executive Committee of the World Federation of Democratic Youth International Trade Union Conference for Solidarity with Palestinian Workers and all the Palestinian People === [PDF page 34] === Freda Brown, President of the WIDF | === [PDF page 35] === Platform at the WIDF thirtieth anniversary celebrations on 25th October 1975 in Berlin, GDR. At the rostrum Fanny Edelman, General Secretary of the WIDF Fanny Edelman receiving the Joliot-Curie Medal, the highest award of the World Peace Council, from General Secretary Romesh Chandra on behalf of the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it. === [PDF page 36] === ictures of the 7th Congress === [PDF page 37] === [Photograph: two photographs of congress delegates seated at desks with name cards] === [PDF page 38] === [Photograph: women delegates in patterned dresses talking together] === [PDF page 39] === [Photograph: two photographs: women delegates at a conference table; a group in front of a banner partly reading "... of the WIDF"] === [PDF page 40] === [Photograph: a woman signing a large banner/flag with a star and lettering] === [PDF page 41] === Kontuean der tDEF Koni F ’ ; x Congess of the WIDE = bets BAGy Corigns de ty FDIFS. ve === [PDF page 42] === 15-23/9/71 Geneva, Switzerland 18-25/9/71 Moscow, USSR 6-29/10/71 Paris, France 7-10/10/71 Freetown, Sierra Leone 9-10/10/71 Dortmund, FRG 12-14/10/71 Nicosia, Cyprus 25-27/10/71 Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia 26-29/10/71 Paris, France 30/10/71 Paris, France 1-10/11/71 New Delhi, India 2/11/71 Geneva, Switzerland 2-4/11/71 Rome, Italy 4-5/11/71 Paris, France 20-27/11/71 Leipzig, GDR 2326/11/71 Berlin, GDR 15/12/71 Berlin, GDR 9-10/1/72 Paris, France 10-13/1/72 3 6419-2 33rd International UNESCO Education Conference on the social background of children and their chance of success in school Regional Seminar of women's organizations from European countries on Women in Society and in the Family and Peace and Security in Europe, sponsored by the Soviet Women's Committee 88th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board 2nd Congress of the National Congress of Women of Sierra Leone (Greetings) International Meeting of Women on questions of European Security, sponsored by the West German Women’s Peace Movement Conference of Women Working in Commerce, convened by the Trade Unions International of Workers in Commerce of the World Federation of Trade Unions 8th International Seminar on the revolution in science and technology and trends in women's education, sponsored by the Conference for Social Activities of Yugoslav Women 13th Conference of International NGOs (UNESCO) Discussion on problems of the day, organized by the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam Regional Seminar on the training of cadres to combat illiteracy among women and educate them for participation in the economic, social and cultural development of their countries, sponsored by the WIDF and National Federation of Indian Women, with UNESCO support 11th Bureau meeting of the Conference of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC 5th Conference of the Freedom from Hunger Campaign sponsored by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization UNESCO 25th Anniversary Celebrations 14th Leipzig International Documentary and Short Film Week for Cinema and Television WIDF Bureau Meeting Meeting of Experts on Problems of Women's Rights, convened by the WIDF Secretariat Preparatory meeting for the Indochina Conference, organized by the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam AAPSO Conference, dealing with preparations for a second Afro-Asian Women’s Conference and other matters 33 === [PDF page 43] === 14/1/72 28-31/1/72 Helsinki, Finland 1~3/2/72 Havana, Cuba 11-13/2/72 Paris, France 14-15/2/72 Brussels, Belgium 14/2—3/3/72 Geneva, Switzerland 17-19/3/72 Paris, France 18-19/3/72 Stockholm, Sweden 20-—23/3/72 Dresden, GDR 22-24/3/72" Tunis, Tunisia 25-27/3/72 Tihany, Hungarian PR 28-30/3/72 Havana, Cuba 4-9/4]72 Antibes, France 8/4/72 Dacca, Bangladesh 15-22/4/72 Venice, Italy 25—28/4/72 Prague, CSSR 28-29/4/72 Varna, PR Bulgaria 29/4—-1/5/72 Varna, PR Bulgaria 30/4—5/5/72 Varna, PR Bulgaria 34 Consultation between representatives of the WIDF Secretariat and representatives of the World Federation of Trade Unions Meeting of the World Peace Council Presidium Preparatory meeting for the October 1972 Seminar on “Women Today in Latin America” Paris World Conference for Peace and Independence of the Peoples of Indochina Namibia International Preparatory Conference 24th Meeting of the UN Commission on the Status of Women International Conference for Abolition of the Dictatorship in Greece Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam Symposium against Chemical and Nuclear Weapons, organized by the World Federation of United Nations Associations 5th Congress of.the National Union of Tunisian Women Meeting of European Women Journalists on the role of the press and other information media in the social advancement of women, security and peace in Europe. Initiated by the WIDF journal Women of the Whole World in cooperation with the Hungarian women’s journal Nok Lapja 2nd Preparatory Meeting for the October 1972 Seminar on "Women Today in Latin America” Congress of the International Federation of Women in Legal Careers National Congress of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (Bangladesh Women’s Congress) ‘ (Greetings) Film Festival organized by the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People World Trade Union Conference on Problems of Working Women, organized by the World Federation of Trade Unions WIDF Bureau Meeting Meeting of WIDF Council delegates from the countries of Indochina and the countries whose governments were directly involved in the US aggression in Indochina WIDF Council Meeting, centred on problems of girls and young women === [PDF page 44] === 2/5/72 Varna, PR Bulgaria 7-10/5/72 Varna, PR Bulgaria 12--13/5/72 Cannes, France 15-16/5/72 Cairo, ARE 15~21/5/72 Budapest, Hungarian PR 26—28/5/72 Brussels, Belgium 26-29/5/72 Cairo, ARE 26-30/5/72 Palermo, Italy 29-30/5/72 Brussels, Belgium 2-5/6/72 Brussels, Belgium 3—4/6/72 _ Stockholm, Sweden 7-27/6/72 Geneva, Switzerland 13-17/6/72 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 18/6/72 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 25/6/72 Geneva, Switzerland 26-28/6/72 Geneva, Switzerland 29/6/72 Paris, France 30/6/72 Geneva, Switzerland 1-2/7/72 Stockholm, Sweden 9-13/7/72 Rostock, GDR Celebration of the 90th birthday of Georgi Dimitroff, on the invitation of the Bulgarian Women’s Committee Second WIDF study session with representatives of women's organizations of Asian, African und Latin American countries, organized by the WIDF with the support of the Bulgarian Women’s Committee General Assembly of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People Ist meeting of the International Preparatory Committee for the August 1972 Women’s Conference in Ulan Bator, organized by the Afro-Asian People’s Solidarity Organization Seminar on the Integration of Working Youth in the Production Process, sponsored by the World Federation of Democratic Youth International Conference on Namibia, sponsored by the World Federation of Democratic Youth Fifth Congress of the International Federation of Arab Trade Unions Fifth Congress of the International Association of Women and Home Page Journalists First Meeting of the World Peace Council Commission on Racism Assembly of Representatives of Public Opinion on Security and Co-operation in Europe Hearing on Indochina, sponsored by the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam 57th International Labour Conference International Conference on the 90th birthday of Georgi Dimitroff Celebration of Georgi Dimitroff's 90th birthday Meeting of representatives of international organizations on intensifying actions of solidarity with the peoples of Indochina, sponsored by the World Peace Council 12th General Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Status with ECOSOC Preparatory meeting for a colloquium on racism, sponsored by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee Meeting of the Special Committee of NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam 15th Baltic Week 35 === [PDF page 45] === 15—20/7/72 Baghdad, Iraq 20/7/72 Paris, France 24-31/7/72 Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania 25/7-7/8/72 Tokyo, Japan 13/8/72 New Delhi, India 16—20/8/72 Ulan Bator, Mongolia 17-18/8/72 Baghdad, Iraq 21-25/8/72 Buenos Aires, Argentina 26-31/8/72 Helsinki, Finland 2-3/9/72 ™ Stockholm, Sweden 15/9/72 San Jose, Costa Rica 25-29/9/72 Geneva, Switzerland 30/9/72 Bern, Switzerland 4-7/10/72 New Delhi, India 4/10/72 Leipzig, GDR 10-16/10/72 Copenhagen, Denmark 17/10—18/11/72 Paris, France 23-28/10/72 Santiago de Chile 3-5/11/72 Brussels, Belgium 1021/11/72 Moscow, USSR 11-14/11/72 Baghdad, Iraq 36 World Workers’ Conference for Solidarity with the Iraqi People and Workers in the Struggle against the Oil Monopolies, sponsored by the Iraqi Trade Unions Meeting of the Stockholm Vietnam Conference, the World Peace Council and other organizations on the situation in Indochina Celebration and Seminar on the 10th Anniversary of the formation of the All African Women's Conference 3rd International Conference on Adult Education sponsored by UNESCO National Symposium on the 25th Anniversary of Indian Independence, sponsored by the National Federation of Indian Women 2nd Women’s Conference of the Afro-Asian People's Solidarity Organization Solidarity Conference for the Iraqi People, sponsored by the World Peace Council Regional Conference of NGOs in liaison with the Economic Commission for Latin America (ECOSOC) European Youth Conference on European Security, sponsored by the Finnish Organizing Committee Executive Committee Meeting, Stockholm Conference on Vietnam Commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the Costa Rican Women’s Alliance International Conference on Disarmament, sponsored by the ECOSOC Special Committee on Disarmament Meeting on “Women's Liberation”, sponsored by the Swiss Women's Federation for Peace and Progress 25th Congress of the International Abolitionist Federation on “Prostitution in the World Today” Colloquium on “Clara Zetkin’s Position on Working Women” sponsored by the Leipzig Pedagogical Institute 3rd Session of the International Commission of Inquiry of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam 17th UNESCO General Conference Seminar on Women Today in Latin America, convened by the WIDF 2nd World Congress of the Central Council of the Greek Anti-Dictatorship Committee Abroad World Meeting of Working Youth, sponsored by the World Federation of Democratic Youth in co-operation with the USSR Committee of Youth Organizations International Seminar on “Oil as a Weapon against Imperialism...”, sponsored by the Afro-Asian Solidarity Organization === [PDF page 46] === 1825/11/72 Leipzig, GDR 25-26/11/72 Paris, France 28/11-1/12/72 Paris, France 28/11-1/12/72 Paris, France 2/12/72. Berlin (West) 4-8/12/72 Paris, France 18-21/12/72 Kuwait, Kuwait December 1972 Moscow, USSR 26/12/72—10/1/73 11/1/73 Rome, Italy 16/1/73 January 1973 DR of Vietnam January 1973 Paris, France 29-30/1/73 Geneva, Switzerland 31/1/73 Geneva, Switzerland 12/2/73 Geneva, Switzerland 22—24/2/73 Rome, Italy 24-27/2/73 Aden, PDR Yemen 2-5/3/73 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 3/3/73 Berlin (West) 15th Leipzig International Documentary and Short Film Week Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam on immediate and imtensified international action for Vietnam, sponsored by the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam and the World Peace Council Meeting of the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee “Information and International Book Year", Symposium sponsored by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee Central Delegates Conference of the Democratic Women’s League of Berlin (West) Fifth International Conference of the World Union of Organizations for the Safeguard of Youth Seminar on the Arab Family, sponsored by the All-Arab Women's Federation, Cairo Ceremony on the 50th anniversary of the USSR WIDF delegation in India and Nepal WIDF delegation to the Vatican; submission of a message to Pope Paul VI concerning cessation of all acts of aggression against the Vietnamese people WIDF delegation to the USA; submission of an appeal to end the war in Vietnam to President Nixon, Members of Congress in Washington, and the UN Secretary-General WIDF delegation to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam to study the effects of US terror bombing on the lives of women and children; participation in the festivities marking the end of the war WIDF delegation to UNESCO to discuss co-operation within the framework of the WIDF's consultative status with UNESCO Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Ist Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-Committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) Extraordinary International Conference of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam 12th Executive Committee Meeting of the Afro-Asian People’s Solidarity Organization Executive Committee Meeting of the International Union of Students Meeting for International Women’s Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Democratic Women’s League of Berlin (West) 37 === [PDF page 47] === 13/3/73 Geneva, Switzerland 16—18/3/73 Moscow, USSR 26-30/3/73 Paris, France 27-29/3/73 Paris, France 25-26/4/73 Berlin, GDR 30/4—5/5/73 Havana, Cuba 11-13/5/73 Bologna, Italy 14-15/5/73 Geneva, Switzerland 15-18/5/73 Paris, France 16/5/73 ‘ Geneva, Switzerland 17-18/5/73, Geneva, Switzerland 19/5/73 ‘ Geneva, Switzerland 21/5/73 Geneva, Switzerland 22-23/5/73 Eisenhiittenstadt, GDR 23—25/5/73 Dacca, Bangladesh 28-29/5/73 Berlin, GDR 2-3/6/73 Stockholm, Sweden 18—21/6/73 Paris, France 22/6/73 Paris, France 38 Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) International Consultative Meeting in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, sponsored by the World Peace Council Meeting of the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee Symposium on Racism, sponsored by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee International Women's Conference on Working Women in the Pharmaceutical and Caouchouc Industries, sponsored by the Trade Unions International of Chemical, Oil and Allied Workers (WFTU) WIDF Bureau Meeting Conference for Peace and Justice in the Middle East, convened by the International Preparatory Committee Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 4th Meeting of the International Consultative Committee on Out-of-School Education (UNESCO) Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC 12th meeting of the Special Committee of NGOs on Disarmament (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Sub-Committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special NGO Committee on Human.Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) International Seminar on “New Forms and Methods of the Neo-colonialist Policy of Imperialism”, sponsored by the Afro-Asian Solidarity Committee of the GDR, Berlin Asian Peace Conference, organized by the World Peace Council Consultation of the WIDF Secretariat with experts on preparations for the International Women's Year Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam Symposium of women's page journalists, sponsored by the International Association of Women and Home Page Journalists and UNESCO Round-table forum of national UNESCO commissions and international non-governmental organizations sponsored by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee === [PDF page 48] === 22-24/6/73 Basel, Switzerland 24-27/6/73 Tonanarive, Madagascar 26-29/6/73 Paris, France 26/6—4/7/73 Vienna, Austria 30/6—2/7/73 Tananarive, Madagascar July 1973 South Africa 3/7/73 Geneva, Switzerland 45/7/73 Geneva, Switzerland 4/7—3/8/73 Geneva, Switzerland 7/7/73 Geneva, Switzerland 7-9/7/73 Moscow, USSR 8/7/73 Paris, France 8-12/7/73 Rostock, GDR 14/7/73 Baghdad, Iraq 17-24/7/73 Moscow, USSR 18-31/7/73 London, England 28/7-5/8/73 Berlin, GDR 10—12/8/73 Dipoli, Finland 16-18/8/73 Moscow, USSR Meeting on Disarmament in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, sponsored by the World Peace Council International Meeting of Youth and Students in Solidarity with the Peoples of Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa, sponsored by the World Federation of Democratic Youth, the International Union of Students and Malagasy organizations 5th meeting of the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee 20th Triennial Conference of the International Council of Women and 85th Anniversary Celebrations International Conference on Africa against Colonialism and Apartheid for Development and National Independence, sponsored by the World Peace Council in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces WIDF delegation to South Africa to study the conditions of women and children under apartheid Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Status with ECOSOC Meeting of the Committee on Non-governmental Organizations (ECOSOC) 55th Session of the UN Economic and Social.Council (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Women's International Non-governmental Organizations 2nd International Consultative Meeting for the World Congress of Peace Forces, organized by the World Peace Council Consultation with the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom International Women’s Conference as part of the 16th Baltic Week Fifteenth Anniversary of the Revolution of 14 July 1958 and 5th Anniversary of the Revolution of 17 July 1968 General Assembly of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People Seminar on the Family in a Changing Society: Problems and Responsibilities of its Members, sponsored by the UN 10th World Festival of Youth and Students Conference of Representatives of Women's Organizations on European Co-operation and Security, initiated by the Finnish women's organizations Meeting of the Working Group on Disarmament in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, organized by the World Peace Council 39 === [PDF page 49] === 27—28/8/73 Moscow, USSR 28/8-10/9/73 San Remo, Italy 29-31/8/73 Helsinki, Finland September 1973 Middle East 10-30/9/73 Tove, Togo 19-27/9/73 Geneva, Switzerland 19/9/73 Budapest, Hungarian PR 29-30/9/73,, Helsinki, Finland 12/10/73 Geneva, Switzerland 12—13/10/73 Berlin, GDR 13/10/73 Geneva, Switzerland 1516/10/73 Geneva, Switzerland 15—21/10/73 15—22/10/73 Varna, PR Bulgaria 17/10/73 Geneva, Switzerland 2327/10/73 Paris, France 23-27/10/73 Paris, France 23/10-5/11/73 Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania 2531/10/73 Moscow, USSR 40 Meeting of the Working Group on Social Problems and Human Rights in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, organized by the World Peace Council Meeting of the Working Group on Co-operation between inter-governmental organizations in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, organized by the World Peace Council International Seminar on Youth and Human Rights, sponsored by the UN Middle East Conference in preparation for the World Congress of Peace Forces, organized by the World Peace Council WIDF delegation to Middle East countries to study the conditions of women and children and visit refugee camps Seminar on Literacy Work, sponsored by UNESCO 34th International Education Conference, UNESCO Consultative Meeting of the World Peace Council on Chile International Conference in Solidarity with the Chilean People 3rd Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-Committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Extraordinary Meeting of the WIDF in Solidarity with Chile Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) World Disarmament Week 8th World Trade Union Congress, organized by the World Federation of Trade Unions Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Status with ECOSOC Third extraordinary session of the UNESCO General Conference Third extraordinary session of the UNESCO General Conference Seminar on “Study of New Means of Promoting Human Rights with special reference to the problems and needs of Africa”, organized by the UN World Congress of Peace Forces === [PDF page 50] === 29/10/73 Moscow, USSR 27-28/10/73 Drammen, Norway 1-3/11/73 Rome, Italy 6-9/11/73 Paris, France 12-14/11/73 Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia 16-19/11/73 Marianske Lazne, CSSR 22-23/11/73 Geneva, Switzerland 24/11—1/12/73 Leipzig, GDR 26-30/11/73 Paris, France 27-30/11/73 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 3-4/12/73 Berlin, GDR 4—5/12/73 Berlin, GDR 6-9/12/73 Teheran, Iran 10/12/73 Damascus, Syria 10-12/12/73 New York, USA 27-30/12/73 Calcutta, India January 1974 Chile 14/1-1/2/74 New York, USA 25-27/1/74 Paris, France Meeting of representatives of various women's organizations at the World Congress of Peace Forces in Preparation for the International Women’s Year Congress of the Norwegian Women's Association 9th National Congress of the Union of Italian Wornen 14th Conference of International NGOs in consultative status (categories A and B) with ECOSOC 9th International Seminar on “Protection of working women under conditions of Modern Technology”, sponsored by the Conference for Social Activity of Yugoslav Women International Seminar on “Education and Employment”, sponsored by the Czechoslovak Student Centre of the Socialist Union of Youth and the International Union of Students Meeting of the Working Group of the Sub-Committee on Racism and Decolonization, Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) appointed to prepare for the 1974 NGO Conference on Apartheid and Decolonization 16th International Leipzig Documentary and Short Film (Cinema and Television) Week 14th General Assembly of the World Veterans Federation 11th European Student Meeting sponsored by the National Student Council, Bulgaria Consultation of the WIDF Secretariat with experts on preparations for the 25th Session of the ECOSOC Commission on the Status of Women Working session on initial and further training of women employed in production, sponsored by the GDR Academy of Sciences Fourth Session of the International Consultative Liaison Committee on Literacy (UNESCO) Conference of the General Federation of Syrian Arab Women UN meeting for the 25th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 8th Congress of the National Federation of Indian Women International delegation to Chile on WIDF initiative to study the situation of women and children and of political prisoners resulting from the events of September 1973 25th Session of the ECOSOC Commission on the Status of Women International Conference of Jurists on the legal and social situation of foreign workers in Western Europe, sponsored by the International Association of Democratic Lawyers 41 === [PDF page 51] === 26/1/74 Geneva, Switzerland 28/1/74 Geneva, Switzerland 29/1/74 Geneva, Switzerland 30/1/74 Geneva, Switzerland 31/1/74 Geneva, Switzerland 3/2/74 Paris, France 5/2/74 Paris, France 9-10/2/74 Berlin, GDR 9-10/2/74 Moscow, USSR 15/2-2/3/74 Saigon, Vietnam 16-19/2/74 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 22/2/74 Geneva, Switzerland 23-24/2/74 Geneva, Switzerland 47/3/74 Hanoi, DR Vietnam 4-9/3/74 Algiers, Algeria 5-7/3/74 Paris, France 16—17/3/74 Lahti, Finland 21-24/3/74 Helsinki, Finland 22-26/3/74 Aden, POR Yemen 42 Meeting of the Preparatory Committee for International Women’s Year formed by a working group at the Moscow World Congress of Peace Forces Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International Non- Governmental Organizations on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 14th Session of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam Consultations of representatives of international organizations with the Director-General of UNESCO on the outcome of the World Congress of Peace Forces in Moscow Meeting of WIDF national member organizations of Northern European countries Meeting of members of the Steering Committee of the World Congress of Peace Forces WIDF delegation to study the situation of women and children in Saigon Meeting of the World Peace Council Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Fourth Congress of the Vietnam Women’s Union Seminar on “The education of women, an important factor in their active participation in the economic, cultural, social and political life of their countries”, sponsored by the WIDF in co-operation with the National Union of Algerian Women and with UNESCO support Meeting of the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee Conference of Working Women, sponsored by the Democratic League of Finnish Women International Tribunal on the Crimes of the Fascist Junta in Chile Seminar on the struggle of developing countries for democratization of education, sponsored by the International Union of Students and the National Union of Yemeni Students === [PDF page 52] === 24-27/3/74 Baghdad, Iraq 25-29/3/74 Khartoum, Sudan 27/3-8/4/74 Colombo, Sri Lanka 28/3/74 Baghdad, Iraq 28/3/74 Baghdad, Iraq 29-31/3/74 Stockholm, Sweden 1—4/4/74 Algiers, Algeria 5-7/4/74 Brussels, Belgium 6-7/4/74 Dacca, Bangladesh 11-15/4/74 Baghdad, Iraq 17/4/74 Greece 19—20/4/74 Prague, CSSR 27/4/74 Paris, France 29/4-8/5/74 Paris, France 2-3/5/74 Geneva, Switzerland 7-14/5/74 Budapest, Hungarian PR 17-18/5/74 Warsaw, PR Poland 20-23/5/74 Warsaw, PR Poland 24-27/5/74 Tananarive, Madagascar 11th Council of the Afro-Asian People's Solidarity Organization Seminar on training and habilitation programs of Arab women in order to increase the size and efficiency of their participation in the economic development of their countries, sponsored by the All Arab Women's Federa tion 30th Session of the ECOSOC Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East Conference in support of the peoples in the Arab Gulf Preparatory meeting for the Zimbabwe Conference, sponsored by the Afro-Asian People’s Solidarity Org anization International Conference for Application of the Paris Agreement on Vietnam, organized by the Stockholm Conference on Vietnam 3rd Congress of the National Union of Algerian Women Meeting of the International Committee for Security and Co-operation in Europe 2nd National Congress of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (Bangladesh Women's Congress) World Seminar on Education in the Arab Occupied Land, sponsored by the World Federation of Teachers’ Unions and the Federation of Arab Teachers’ Unions WIDF delegation to Greece to study the situation of women, children and political prisoners State-wide Women’s Congress, convened by the Czechoslovak Women's Council Meeting of international organizations and personalities with a view to convening a World Congress for the International Women’s Year 1975 Meeting of the Special Committee of Government Experts appointed to study the draft recommendation on education for international understanding, co-operation and peace, and education relative to human rights and fundamental freedoms, sponsored by UNESCO. Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) in preparation for the Consultative Meeting of NGOs interested in the International Women's Year programme 11th Congress of the International Union of Students WIDF Bureau Meeting WIDF Council Meeting 7th National Congress of the Madagascar Solidarity Committee (FIFANAMPIANA Malagasy) 43 === [PDF page 53] === 24—29/5/74 Berlin, GDR 26—30/5/74 Paris, France 27/5/74 Beirut, Lebanon 27—31/5/74 Budapest, Hungarian PR 30/5/74 Paris, France 2-7/6/74 Moscow, USSR 34/6/74 Geneva, Switzerland 5/6/74 Geneva, Switzerland 5-26/6/74 Geneva, Switzerland 7/6/74 Geneva, Switzerland 7-9/6/74 Grenoble, France 10-11/6/74 Balatonfured, Hungarian PR 15—16/6/74 Berlin, GDR 22-23/6/74 London, England 26-28/6/74 Brazzaville, PR Congo 1/7/74 Geneva, Switzerland 1-2/7/74 Paris, France 3-5/7/74 Paris, France 2/7/74 Geneva, Switzerland 44 Meeting of the UN Commission on Apartheid Presidential Committee meeting and 25th anniversary celebrations of the World Peace Council Seminar on the Status of Women in Arab Law with reference to International Conventions—organized by the Lebanese Women’s Council, together with the All Arab Women's Federation Congress of the Trade Unions International of Workers of the Food, Tobacco and Beverage Industries and Hotel, Cafe and Restaurant Workers Consultative Meeting on Chile, organized by the World Peace Council International Conference of the Trade Unions International of Textile, Clothing, Leather and Fur Workers Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 59th International Labour Conference of the International Labour Organization 6th meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights 12th Congress of the Union of French Women on “Women and the Quality of Life” International Symposium on Unity of Patriotic and Progressive Forces against Imperialism and for Social Progress, organized by the Afro-Asian People’s Solidarity Organization (AAPSO) Meeting of the Working Group to set up a Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Yeor Working group of the Continuing Liaison Committee of the World Congress of Peace Forces World Peace Council Seminar on Population and Development Meeting of Women’s International Non-governmental Organizations (WINGOs) 3rd Meeting of the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee NGO (UNESCO) Population Colloquium Preparatory meeting of NGOs for the International Women’s Year, organized by the Status of Women Subcommittee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) === [PDF page 54] === 3/7-2/8/74 Geneva, Switzerland 4/7/74 Geneva, Switzerland 7-12/7/74 Rostock, GDR 13-20/7/74 London, England 17-20/7/74 Birmingham, England 22/7-2/8/74 Dublin/Belfast, Ireland 27-31/7/74 Dakar, Senegal 29/7/74 Cairo, ARE 2-9/8/74 Tokyo, Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan 6—10/8/74 Beirut, Lebanon 10-11/8/74 Tokyo, Japan 18-30/8/74 Bucharest, SR Romania 19-30/8/74 Bucharest, SR Romania 29/8-1/9/74 Bradford, England 2-5/9/74 Geneva, Switzerland 7-8/9/74 Berlin, GDR 11-15/9/74 Caracas, Venezuela 18-21/9/74 Budapest, Hungarian PR ee ee 57th meeting of the UN Economic and Social Cotancil Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC): meeting of the Sub-committee on Racism, Racial Discrimination, Apartheid and Decolonization International Women’s Conference as part of the 17th Baltic Week Congress of the International Association of Youth Magistrates 19th Triennial Congress of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom Anti-imperialist Festival of the Irish Republican Movement: “The Struggle of the Irish People is the Struggle of the Peoples of the World” (Greetings) 4th Congress of the All African Women's Conference Meeting in solidarity with Cyprus, organized by AAPSO 20th World Conference against A and H Bombs—organized by the Japan Council against A and H Bombs (GENSUIKYO) (Greetings) 2nd Congress of the General Union of Palestinian Women 20th Japan Mothers’ Congress, organized by the Federation of Japanese Women’s Organizations (Greetings) Population Tribune of International NGOs UN World Population Conference Conference 1974 of the International Peace Bureau. Theme: Preparation for the UN World Disarmament Conference International NGO Conference on Apartheid and Colonialism in Africa organized by the Special Committee of NGOs on Human Rights, Sub-Committee on Racism, Racial Discrimination, Apartheid and Decolonization Meeting of the Working Group to Establish a Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women's Year 1975 International Meeting in Solidarity with Chile—against fascism, for democratic freedoms and respect for human tights, organized by the World Federation of Democratic Youth 8th Conference of the General Union of Students in the Iraqi Republic 45 === [PDF page 55] === 21/9/74 Paris, France 25-27/9/74 Samarkand, USSR 27-29/9/74 New Delhi, India 28-29/9/74 Warsaw, PR Poland 30/9/74 Geneva, Switzerland September 1974 New York, USA 1-2/10/74 Geneva, Switzerland 2/10/74 ~ Cairo, ARE 3/10/74 Geneva, Switzerland 3-7/10/74 Amsterdam, Netherlands 5/10/74 Geneva, Switzerland 12—13/10/74 Stockholm, Sweden 15/10—20/11/74 Paris, France 16—20/10/74 Cairo, ARE 24—28/10/74 Lima, Peru 25—27/10/74 Moscow, USSR 1-4/11/74 Baghdad, Iraq 3/11/74 Tihany, Hungarian PR 46 Meeting of International NGOs on the Situation in Cyprus, organized by the International Youth and Student Movement for the United Nations, the World Peace Council and the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom International Seminar on “Struggle for Peace and Security in Asia—a Vital Task of our Time”, organized by the Steering Committee of the World Congress of Peace Forces 20th Anniversary of the National Federation of Indian Women International Symposium on the Charter of Peaceful Coexistence and International Security and Co-operation, organized by the Continuing Liaison Committee of the World Congress of Peace Forces 7th Meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) WIDF delegation to the UN Commission on Human Rights to report on the situation of women and children in Saigon (1974) Seminar of the Special Committee of NGOs on Disarmament (ECOSOC), on the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty AAPSO Preparatory Meeting for the International Seminar on Equality and Progress Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 6th Congress of the International Association of Women and Home Page Journalists Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of Non-governmental Organizations in Consultative Status with ECOSOC National Congress of the Swedish Women's Association 18th General Conference of UNESCO Working meeting for preparation of the seminar on “Women and Social Development” (March 1975) and the International Women's Year 1975 3rd Latin American Seminar on “Eliminating Discrimination against Women in the Field of Education, Technical and Vocational Training, and Access to various Professions and Occupations World Congress of Peace Forces Steering Committee Meeting 2nd International Seminar on Oil and Raw Materials for Economic Development, Social Progress and Equitable Economic Relations Meeting of the Working Group to establish a Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year === [PDF page 56] === 4—5/11/74 Tihany, Hungarian PR 5/11/74 Baghdad, Iraq 8-11/11/74 Fredensborg, Denmark 10-17/11/74 Varna, PR Bulgaria 11-13/11/74 Varna, PR Bulgaria 14—15/11/74 Brussels, Belgium 15~16/11/74 New Delhi, India 16/11/74 Cairo, ARE 2022/11/74 Berlin, GDR 23-30/11/74 Leipzig, GDR 2429/11/74 Havana, Cuba 7-8/12/74 Prague, CSSR 10/12/74 Vienna, Austria 28—29/12/74 Bamako, Mali 17-18/1/75 Baghdad, Iraq 28/1/75 Geneva, Switzerland 29/1/75 Geneva, Switzerland 30/1/75 Geneva, Switzerland 30/1-1/2/75 Brussels, Belgium 3/2-7/3/75 Geneva, Switzerland 3-6/2/75 Baghdad, Iraq International Meeting to Establish a Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year International Preparatory Committee for the Zimbabwe Conference Preparatory Conference of Experts on the role of NGOs, convened by the World Association of World Federalists 9th General Assembly of the World Federation of Democratic Youth 4th General Assembly of the International Com mittee of Children’s and Adolescent's Movements Meeting of the International Committee for Security and Co-operation in Europe International Conference of the World Peace Council on Military Bases in the Indian Ocean Conference of the All Arab Women’s Federation on the Role of Women in the Liberation Movement Berlin Conference of Catholic Christians from European States 17th International Documentary and Short Film Week (Cinema and Television) 2nd National Congress of the Federation of Cuban Women Meeting of the World Peace Council with national peace committees on International Women’s Year Executive Committee Meeting of the Democratic Women’s League of Austria Constitutive Congress of the National Union of Women of Mali AAPSO International Conference in Solidarity with the Korean People’s Struggle for Independent Peaceful Reunification of their Country Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) 8th meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Consultative Meeting of the International Committee for Security and Co-operation in Europe 31st Session of the ECOSOC Commission on Human Rights 1st General Conference of the National Union of Bahrein Students (Greetings) 47 === [PDF page 57] === 9-14/2/75 Baghdad, Iraq 18-21/2/75 Mexico City, Mexico 21/2/75 London, England 22—23/2/75 London, England 23~25/2/75 Damascus, Syrian AR 24—26/2/75 Baghdad, Iraq 26—27/2/75 Brazzaville, PR Congo 26-28/2/75 Paris, France 26/2-7/3/75 New Delhi, India 27/2—-1/3/75 Berlin, GDR 4—14/3/75 Tripoli, Libya 8/3/75 Tel Aviv, Israel 8/3/75 Reykjavik, Iceland 8-10/3/75 Alexandria, ARE 12-14/3/75 Cairo, ARE 15/3/75 Olten, Switzerland 29-31/3/75 Havana, Cuba 1-2/4/75 ‘Berlin, GDR 48 Conference of Women Workers in Arab Countries, organized by the International Confederation of Arab Trade Unions 3rd Session of the International Commission of Enquiry into the Crimes of the Fascist Junta in Chile Preparatory meeting for the International Forum to end the Arms Race and for Disarmament, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces Conference of Women for World Disarmament on the theme “Together for Peace and a Better Future” International Student Meeting of the International Union of Students for the Victory of the Arab Liberation Movement Conference of Asian Peace Forces for Peace and Security in Asia, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces Regional Seminar of African Children’s and Youth Organizations—organized by CIMEA (International Committee of Children’s and Adolescents’ Movements) and the National Pioneer Movement of the People’s Republic of Congo NGO Colloquium on the International Women’s Year, organized by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee 31st Session of the ECOSOC Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific 10th National Congress of the Democratic Women’s League of Germany 4th Session of the Arab Labour Conference Participation in the March 8th celebrations of the Movement of Democratic Women of Israel Participation in the March 8th celebrations of the Icelandic Women's Union for Culture and Peace International Symposium on the Social Development of Women, organized by the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization Seminar on the Situation of the Palestinian Family, organized by the General Union of Palestinian Women Seminar on “Abortion and Partnership in the Family”, organized by the Basel Women's Federation for Peace and Progress Formation of an International Preparatory Committee to organize an International Conference in Solidarity with the People of Puerto Rico, organized by the World Peace Council Working Conference of Editors of the Press and News Agencies of the Socialist Countries on “Women in Socialism", organized by PANORAMA and ADN, GDR === [PDF page 58] === 1-6/4/75 Sura, Fiji Islands 2-5/4/75 Mogadishu, Somalia 2-6/4/75 Algiers, Algeria 3-4/4/75 Moscow, USSR 8-9/4/75 Athens, Greece 9-11/4/75 Bucharest, SR Romania 10=11/4/75 Berlin, GDR 13—14/4/75 Cairo, ARE 15—16/4/75 Budapest, Hungarian PR 18-20/4/75 Berlin, GDR 20/4/75 Nicosia, Cyprus 22-24/4/75 Bucharest, SR Romania 21-24/4/75 Kuwait, Kuwait 22-23/4/75 Copenhagen, Denmark 24—25/4/75 Copenhagen, Denmark 26-29/4/75 Brussels/Lieges, Belgium 4 6419-2 Conference for a Nuclear-free Pacific, organized by the ATOM (Against Testing on Mururoa) Committee (Greetings) Seminar on the Role of African Women in the Struggle for Equality, Integration in the Development of their Countries, and the Struggle for National Independence, organized by the Pan-African Women's Organization 10th Congress of the International Association of Democratic Lawyers Consultative Meeting in preparation for the World Meetind for Young Women (October 1975 in Moscow), organized by the World Federation of Democratic Youth Conference of European Youth in Solidarity with the People and Youth of Cyprus, sponsored by the Solidari ty with Cyprus Organizing Committee International Trade Union Symposium on “The Participation of Working Women in Economic and Social Life”, organized by the General Romanian Trade Union Federation and the National Council of Women of the Socialist Republic of Romania in co-operation with the WFTU and with ILO support International Symposium of the Trade Unions International of Workers of the Food, Tobacco and Beverage Ind ustries and Hotel, Cafe and Restaurant Workers (WFTU) on the problems of working women Bandung Conference, organized by AAPSO Round-Table Discussion on "The 30th Anniversary of the Victory over Fascism and Contemporary Youth", organized by the World Federation of Democratic Youth Bureau Meeting of the Presidential Committee of the World Peace Council March of Cypriot Refugee Women for Return to their Homes (Greetings) WIDF Bureau Meeting Arab Regional Conference on “Women in Contemporary Arabian Gulf Society", organized by the Women's Cultural and Social Association of Kuwait Meeting of the Working Commission of the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces Conference of Representatives of International Organizations for Implementation of the Paris Agreement on Vietnam, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces 2nd Assembly of Representatives of Public Opinion on Security and Co-operation in Europe 49 === [PDF page 59] === 2/5/75 27/5/75 Geneva, Switzerland 3—4/5/75 Paris, France 5-10/5/75 Beirut, Lebanon 5/5/75 Geneva, Switzerland 6/5/75 Geneva, Switzerland 7/5/75 Geneva, Switzerland 7-9/5/75 New York, USA 10—11/5/75 London, England 10-13/5/75 Baghdad, Iraq 11-16/5/75 Menton, France 12-13/5/75 Geneva, Switzerland 12—17/5/75 Varna, PR Bulgaria 13/5/75 Oslo, Norway 15-16/5/75 Nicosia, Cyprus 18-19/5/75 Beirut, Lebanon 19-24/5/75 Gottwaldov, CSSR 20-24/5/75 Moscow, USSR 50 Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) International Conference for a Just and Peaceful Solution in the Middle East, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces 2nd Meeting of the ECOSOC Economic Commission for West Asia 9th Session of the Status of Women Sub-committee and the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights and the Special Committee of International NGOs on Development (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Status with ECOSOC Seminar for the International Women's Year on “Women of the World United for Peace—Disarmament and its Social Consequences”, organized by the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom together with the WIDF and the Jane Addams Peace Association International Conference for the Implementation of UN Resolutions on Cyprus, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council, World Congress of Peace Forces 8th Conference of the General Federation of Iraqi Women International Conference of the International Federation for Parent Education on the occasion of its 10th anniversary on the theme “Being a Parent Today” Seminar of the Special NGO Committee on Development (ECOSOC) on the New International Economic Order Congress of the International Federation of Women in Legal Careers Meeting of Norwegian Women’s Organizations 2nd Presidium Meeting of the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization Meeting of the Arab Solidarity and Peace Committees, organized by AAPSO and the Palestinian Peace and Solidarity Committee Gottwaldov Festival, organized by the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People 7th International Conference of Agricultural, Forestry and Plantation Workers, organized by the Trade Unions International of Agricultural, Forestry and Plantation Workers (WFTU) === [PDF page 60] === 21-25/5/75 Caracas, Venezuela 22-23/5/75 Gottwaldov, CSSR 24-31/5/75 Tokyo, Japan 27-28/5/75 Berlin, GDR 27-29/5/75 Bangkok, Thailand 27-31/5/75 Warsaw, PR Poland 28/4—2/5/75 Caracas, Venezuela 31/5-2/6/75 Stockholm, Sweden 2-7/6/75 Minster, FRG 4/6/75 Geneva, Switzerland 6-7/6/75 Vienna, Austria 10-13/6/75 Leipzig, GDR 14-20/6/75 Budapest, Hungarian PR 19/6—2/7/75 Mexico City, Mexico 19/6—2/7/75 Mexico City, Mexico 24-25/6/75 Lourenco Marques, PR Mozambique 20-25/6/75 Athens, Greece June 1975 Paris, France Venezuelan Women's Congress, organized by the: Women's Consultative Commission of the Office of the President of the Republic of Venezuela Meeting of the Board of Directors of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People 20th Anniversary Celebrations of the Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chongryn) (Greetings) Meeting of the Executive Committee of the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year Regional Conference of Non-Governmental Organ izations at the headquarters of the ECOSOC Economic ancd Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific World Teachers’ Conference, organized by the World Federation of Teachers’ Unions UN Regional Seminar on the Integration of Women in Development with Special Reference to Population Factors, organized in collaboration with the ECOSOC Economic Commission for Latin America Meeting of the Presidential Committee of the World Peace Council International Women's Year Week, Westphalian Wilhelms University. Akademisches Auslandsamt Internationales Zentrum, Minster 60th International Labour Conference of the International Labour Organization Congress of the Democratic Women’s League of Austria Executive Committee meeting of the International Union of Students International Journalists’ Seminar for the International Women's Year, organized by the Hungarian Association of Journalists, UNESCO and the International Association of Women and Home Page Journalists International Women’s Year Tribune NGO Forum, World Conference of the International Women’s Year World Conference of the International Women’s Year, convened by the United Nations Festivities on the occasion of the Proclamation of the People’s Republic of Mozambique WIDF delegation to Greece, on the invitation of the Greek Preparatory Committee for the World Congress, the Association of Progressive Mothers, and the Democratic Association of Young Women Colloquium on the Rights and Responsibility of Youth, organized by the NGO (UNESCO) Standing Committee 51 === [PDF page 61] === 30/6/75 Geneva, Switzerland 1/7/75 Geneva, Switzerland 2/7/75 Geneva, Switzerland 3/7/75 Geneva, Switzerland 4/7/75 Geneva, Switzerland 4-6/7/75 London, England 6-10/7/75 Rostock, GDR 15—20/7/75 Alma Ata, USSR 15—20/7/75 Moscow, USSR 19-20]7/75 Nicosia, Cyprus 24-26/7/75 Kiev, USSR 25—29/7/75 Tunis, Tunisia 28/7/75 Prague, CSSR 28-30/7/75 Monastir, Tunisia 29-31/7/75 Prague, CSSR 30/7-2/8/75 Ouagadougou, Upper Volta 52 Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 10th meeting of the Status of Women Sub-committee of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special NGO Committee on Disarmament (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Special Committee of International NGOs on Human Rights (ECOSOC) Meeting of the Bureau of the Conference of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC European Seminar for International Women’s Year, organized by the National Assembly of Women of Great Britain with the support of UNESCO, the London Co-op Political Committee, and the London Co-op Education Committee in co-operation with the WIDF International Women's Conference as part of the 18th Baltic Week Seminar of Women's Organizations of the Asian Countries on the Participation of Women in Economic Development and in the Upbringing of the Younger Generation in their Countries, organized by the Committee of Soviet Women in co-operation with the WIDF International Symposium of the World Federation of Scientific Workers on “The Role of Scientists and their Organizations in the Struggle for Disarmament” International Meeting in Solidarity with Cyprus, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council of the World Congress of Peace Forces to set up formally the International Committee of Solidarity with Cyprus Meeting of Experts of the International Centre of Films for Children and Young People: 2nd Congress of the General Union of Palestinian Teachers (Greetings) Meeting of the Executive Committee of the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women's Year International Seminar, organized by the International Union of Students, AAPSO and the General Union of Tunisian Students Meeting of the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for IWY 21st Congress of the National Union of African Teachers of Upper Volta, on the theme “For Democratization of the Voltaic School” (Greetings) === [PDF page 62] === 31/7-3/8/75 Monastir, Tunisia 19/8/75 Tokyo, Japan 5-8/8/75 Acapulco, Mexico 25-29/8/75 Minsk, USSR 27/8—4/9/75 Geneva, Switzerland 28-29/8/75 Geneva, Switzerland 30/8-6/9/75 Hanoi, DRVN 1-12/9/75 New York, USA 36/9/75 Sofia, PR Bulgaria 4-5/9/75 Berlin, GDR 5-7/9/75 Havana, Cuba 5-6/9/75 Cuttack, India 8-11/9/75 Bissau, Guinea-Bissau 12-14/9/75 Copenhagen, Denmark 15/9/75 Geneva, Switzerland 16—19/9/75 Geneva, Switzerland Congress of the General Union of Tunisian Students 30th anniversary of the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and 21st World Conference against A and H Bombs, organized by the Japan Council against A and H Bombs (Gensuikyo) (Greetings) 1st Congress of Teachers of the Third World, orgcinized by the National Union of Workers in Education (SNTE) of Mexico International Meeting on “Women Fighting against Fascism, for a Firm and Just Peace on Earth” 35th International Education Conference (UNESCO) Meeting of the Working Group for Commission 9, organized by the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year 30th Anniversary of the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam: invitation from the Vietnam Women's Union Conference of Non-governmental Organizations in Consultative Status with ECOSOC, NGO Forum on the World Economic Order, concurrently with the 7th Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly devoted to Development and International Economic Co-operation International Seminar on “Women in Contemporary Society”, organized by the Bulgarian National Committee of Initiative for the International Women’s Year Meeting of the Working Group for Commission 1, organized by the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year International Conference on Solidarity with Puerto Rican Independence, organized by the World Peace Council Statutory Conference of the All Orissa Federation of Teachers’ Organizations (Greetings) Meeting of the Bureau of the World Peace Council Presidential Committee European Seminar on the problems of young women in struggle for their equal rights, peace, security and progress Meeting of the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) International NGO Conference on Discrimination against Migrant Workers in Europe, organized by the Sub-committee on Decolonization and Racial Discrimination of the Special NGO Committee on Human Rights (ECOSOC) 53 === [PDF page 63] === 17/9/75 Berlin, GDR 17-19/9/75 Moscow, USSR 20/9/75 Moscow, USSR 19-21/9/75 Havana, Cuba 19-21/9/75 Brussels, Belgium 20-21/9/75 Warsaw, PR Poland 22-24/9/75 Khartoum, Sudan 29/9-1/10/75 Viitakivi (Hauho) Finland 4-6/10/75 Moscow, USSR 6—18/10/75 Moscow, USSR 18/10/75 Berlin, GDR 18/10/75 Berlin, GDR 20—23/10/75 Warsaw, PR Poland 20—24/10/75 Berlin, GDR 25/10/75 Berlin, GDR 26/10/75 Berlin, GDR 54 Exchange of experience of the Central Institute for Vocational Training of the Academy of Science of the GDR on “Efficient Methods of Training Women Working in Production as Skilled Production Workers” 12th Council Meeting of the Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization Celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Victory over Fascism Caribbean Women's Seminar on “Educational and Employment Opportunities for Women in the Caribbean Region”, organized by the Federation of Cuban Women with the patronage of the WIDF and UNESCO Meeting following the Helsinki Conference, organized by the International Committee for European Security and Co-operation Meeting on the first theme of the International Forum to End the Arms Race and for Disarmament in March 1976: “Halt to Arms Race, Reduction of Armaments, Disarmament and Detente”, organized by the Continuing Liaison Council of the World Congress of Peace Forces Symposium in honour of the fighting women of Palestine and South Africa against colonialism and racism, organized by the National Council for Friendship, Solidarity and Peace Women's Conference organized by the Christian Peace Conference Plenary Assembly of the World Federation of United Nations Associations World Meeting of Young Women, convened by the Committee of Youth Organizations of the USSR and the World Federation of Democratic Youth for International Women's Year Meeting of the Executive of the Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women’s Year Meeting of the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women's Year UNESCO International Forum on the Thirtieth Anniversary of the End of the Second World War, organized by the Polish National Committee for UNESCO World Congress for International Women’s Year, convened by the International Preparatory Committee for the World Congress for International Women's Year WIDF Bureau Meeting 7th WIDF Congress === [PDF page 64] === Report of the Finance Control Commission covering the period between the 6th and 7th Congresses of the WIDF (1969-1975) Edith Erdei, National Council of Hungarian Women President of the Finance Control Commission of the WIDF Dear delegates and friends, In accordance with the statutes of the WIDF the Finance Control Commission, composed of representatives from the national organizations of Austria, Lebanon, Luxembourg, the Hungarian People’s Republic and Venezuela, has the honour of presenting to the 7th Congress of the WIDF the financial report for the period from 1969 to 1975, During this period the members of the Finance Control Commission have taken note of the efforts undertaken to secure the necessary funds. They have kept a regular check on how these funds have been used to carry out the decisions taken by the 6th Congress. They have been able to confirm that, in the period under review, the WIDF has organized a variety of creative activities designed to put into effect the decisions taken at the 6th Congress in Helsinki. These activities hdve demonstrated the universality and correctness of our programme. They have contributed to the development of democratic and Progressive women’s movements all over the world. They have increased the WIDF's international standing, thereby extending its political influence, and opened up new prospects for co-operation with other organizations. In the period between the two Congresses the moral, political and material solidarity with the women of Vietnam, Chile, Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, South Africa, Cyprus, Portugal, Greece and Spain, with the women of the Arab countries, including the Palestinian women, who are fighting courageously for liberation, national independence and respect for human rights, has taken on new dimensions. Several delegations from our Federation have visited these countries to study the situation of women and children there. These visits have enabled the WIDF to strengthen its ties with them, to launch world-wide solidarity campaigns on their behalf, to collect documentary evidence based on first-hand accounts and to submit this evidence to the United Nations Human Rights Commission. The WIDF has done a very great deal indeed to defend the rights of women and to remove discrimination against them. The action it has taken has helped to increase the awareness of women and boost their confidence in their own strength and ability. The number of women who are convinced that they have to act for their rights is rising steadily. We can be well pleased with the WIDF's activities at the United Nations and in particular in its special agencies, UNESCO, ECOSOC and the ILO. One of the outstanding results has been the proclamation, by a resolution of the General Assembly of the United Nations, of the International Women's Year in 1975. This has aroused the interest of broad sections of society and various organizations in the social position of women all over the world. It has provided the opportunity and framework for organizing and developing wide-ranging activities involving the participation of new forces, the aim of which has been recognition by various countries of the fact that the social and economic position 55 === [PDF page 65] === of women is a social question. The three aims of International Women’s Year— equality, development, and peace—have given tremendous impetus to the work of the WIDF and its affiliated national organizations. The General Secretary's report and the list of meetings in which the WIDF has taken part will have enabled you to gauge the wealth of activity carried out by the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it in connection with the International Women's Year and in preparing for the World Congress in Berlin, the 30th anniversary of the foundation of the WIDF and the 7th WIDF Congress. It would be difficult to enumerate all the seminars, national, regional and international meetings, and congresses organized by the WIDF and those at which it has been represented. In the past few years the WIDF has also taken part in congresses and other activities of its national organizations. In the period since the 6th Congress, more and more women have come to regard the WIDF as the sole representative of their just aspirations. This is reflected in the increase in the number of national organizations affiliated to the WIDF. At the time of the 6th Congress there were 93 national organizations in 88 countries; today it works with 120 affiliated national organizations in 103 countries to achieve its aims. The General Secretary's report has outlined the wide-ranging activities and numerous initiatives by means of which the WIDF has contributed to the cause of progress. They have naturally required unceasing work, indefatigable enthusiasm and also substantial funds, The Finance Control Commission can confirm that the material funds necessary during the period since the 6th Congress to carry on political activity in the interests of peace and the welfare of women and children all over the world have been available. There! have been eight Bureau and three Council meetings between the two Congresses. At all of these meetings the President of the Finance Control Commission gave an account of the financial position of the WIDF and its income and expenses. The members of the Council and the Bureau have always attached considerable importance to these accounts and have studied financial questions closely. It was stressed on many occasions during these meetings that we cannot separate the political activity of the WIDF from efforts to secure the necessary funds. The activities of the WIDF and its finances constitute an indivisible whole, the one is dependent on the other. It is the duty of all of us to guarantee the financial base we need to achieve the common political goals we have set ourselves. The Finance Control Commission can also confirm that the Secretariat has always been very careful with the funds at its disposal and has put them to very good use. We have had to make great efforts to raise the funds we needed to achieve our goals. Today we can report to the 7th Congress on what we have done. Our sources of income have not increased proportionately with the activities of the WIDF, and because of inflation in several countries everything we undertake costs more for travel, hotel accommodation, meals, etc. than in the past. The main source of the funds necessary to cover the costs of the WIDF’s activities is the annual subscriptions of the national organizations. The Commission notes that a few national organizations, realising the importance of finances for the activities of the WIDF, have increased their contributions. Subscriptions to the magazine “Women of the Whole World” constitute another source of revenue. In the period between 1969 and 1975 there has been a slight increase in income from this source, thanks to successful efforts to increase the number of subscribers and improve the content and form of the magazine, which is becoming an increasingly effective means of familiarizing people with the aims of the WIDF. The receipts from our traditional bazaars represent only a minimal source of income. The articles on sale there enable women to get to know the folk art and cultural traditions of different countries. 56 === [PDF page 66] === If we draw a parallel between the ever-expanding activities of the WIDF and its financial position, the discrepancy between the two becomes immediately appa rent. We have carried on world-wide campaigns with what are only modest funds. The WIDF has been able to compensate for this imbalance thanks to the moral and material aid of certain national organizations which have always contributed via their solidarity to the fulfilment of our aims. They have taken it upon themselves to cover the costs of various seminars, get-togethers, and meetings of the Council and Bureau held in their countries. The extent of this aid cannot be expressed in figures in our financial report. | shall not list here the national organizations that have provided this valuable aid. However, | should like to take this opportunity to express my warmest thanks to the organizations of the socialist countries which have always been prepared to give moral, political and material support to the activities initiated by the WIDF for the benefit of the women of the world and for progress. The members of the Commission would also like to thank the Democratic Women's League of Germany, which is acting as host for the World Congress and the 7th Congress of the WIDF, for its unflagging efforts and financial sacrifices. The 7th Congress of the WIDF has to discuss and endorse the prospective plan for the years up to 1980. Fulfilment of the tasks contained in this plan corresponds to the aspirations of millions of women who are fighting for equality, the happiness of children, solidarity, friendship, liberty and peace. These noble aims will provide the WIDF and the organizations affiliated to it with new opportunities and possibilities to expand their activities in co-operation with other national, regional and international orga nizations and thus develop into a powerful force for progress. If the goals laid down in this prospective plan are to be achieved, all the organizations affiliated to the WIDF must consider it their duty to make their financial contribution. They must regard this duty as an important part of their own political activity. For the future, let us assume the responsibility of sharing the costs of work that serves our common aims. The Finance Control Commission requests the national organizations to step up work in their countries to publicize the activities carried on by the WIDF in the cause of progress. This would enable them to consolidate their own financial position and at the same time meet their obligations to the WIDF. It would give added depth to their political activity and boost solidarity with the WIDF, thus serving both national and international interests. The Finance Control Commission proposes that the national organizations do more to recruit new subscribers for the magazine Women of the Whole World. This would enable members to find out about the international activities of the Federation, would inform them about the situation and struggles of women in other countries and would thus provide them with experience which might be useful in their own struggle for the improvement of the lot of women. Finally it would help the WIDF to raise the funds it needs to fulfil the prospective plan. The Finance Control Commission requests the elected members of the Council and Bureau always to attach major importance to the financial position of the WIDF and to see that its revenues are increased. We would urge the Secretariat to continue the careful policy in financial matters that it has pursued up till now. We appeal to all the national organizations of the WIDF to contribute as their means allow to the grand task awaiting us, so that the WIDF may fulfil its noble mission. The successful activity of the past thirty years will give us strength, optimism and courage in the years ahead. 57 === [PDF page 67] === Report of the Credentials Committee to the 7th Congress of the WIDF Paulina Mateus Nkonda Mozambique Women's Organization Dear Friends, Permit me to submit to you the report of the Credentials Committee to the 7th Congress of the Women’s International Democratic Federation. The period since the 6th Congress of our organization in Helsinki in 1969 has been one of great efforts and successes in strengthening the WIDF and expanding the national organizations affiliated to it. Above all the current year, which was proclaimed International Women’s Year on the initiative of the WIDF, has witnessed a wealth of events. It is the year in which the WIDF celebrates the 30th anniversary of its foundation. In 1945, when the WIDF was founded, there were 41 affiliated national organizations in as many countries; at the time of the 6th Congress, there were 93 organizations in 88 countries. In the period from Helsinki till today organizations from 28 countries joined the Federation. There are now 121 national organizations in 106 countries. It gives us special pleasure to be able to say that the WIDF is equally at home on all continents: In Africa in 25 countries In Asia in 25 countries In Australia and Oceania in 2countries In Europe in 28 countries In Latin America in 24 countries In North America in 2 countries These figures do not just express the steady growth of the WIDF; they demonstrate also the respect and prestige that the Federation enjoys and the trust placed in it by millions of women all over the world; they show that it is an important force in the social movement of the women of our time. The organizations which have joined the WIDF since its foundation come from different countries, from small islands and large states. Their growth and their strength differ. Yet they are all motivated by the desire to develop their fighting capacity to the utmost to help achieve our common goals. This desire is evidenced by the participation in our Congress. Present here are 534 delegates from 95 countries Every continent is represented: Africa with 20 countries Asia with 21 countries Australia and Oceania with 2 countries Europe with 26 countries Latin America with 24 countries North America with 2 countries 58 === [PDF page 68] === The delegates from all these countries represent 104 national organization s, among them associated organizations in 2 countries. Among us are 117 participants up to the age of 30 365 participants from 30 to 60 and 52 participants over 60 years of age. Our youngest participant is 18 and our oldest 83 years old. Many participants in our Congress hold office in social organizations as well as in state organs. We have among us presidents and many members of the leaclership of organizations affiliated to the WIDF. We have here workers and peasants, students,, members of parliament, ministers, scientists, doctors, educators, jurists, journalists, housewives, as well as representatives of numerous other professions, such as nurses and writers. We also have with us, as we did at the 5th and 6th Congresses of the WIDF, the first and only female cosmonaut, Valentina Nikolayeva-Tereshkova, Our Congress received messages of greetings, telegrams and other messages from many countries. From this rostrum we should like to thank all those who sent us greetings and let us know that they give their wholehearted support to the work of the WIDF. All this shows that the national organizations affiliated to the WIDF all over the world are both well and fairly represented at the 7th Congress of the WIDF and that our Congress is qualified to adopt decisions concerning the work and the election of the governing bodies, === [PDF page 69] === Prospective Plan of the WIDF up to 1980 The 7th Congress of the Women's International Democratic Federation, which met in Berlin, GDR on 26th October 1975, places great value on the results of the World Congress for International Women’s Yeor and considers that they represent a great success for the forces acting for peace, social progress and national independence. | The WIDF's proposal that the International Women's Year should be proclaimed and that the World Congress should be the common cause of all those social forces that concern themselves with matters affecting women has enhanced its prestige. The WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it devoted all their energies to the successful observance of the International Women’s Year and contributed to making the World Congress a great success by taking an active and resolute part in the whole process of preparing for and holding the World Congress—a process remarkable for the frank and friendly co-operation it involved with a wide range of organizations. The activities of the WIDF, which in 1975, thirty years after the victory over Hitlerite fascism, is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its foundation, demonstrate the growth and influence of the WIDF national organizations. They prove that the oath of the founders—to fight indefatigably against fascism in all its forms, to strive for democratic tights and freedoms, to defend peace, to win the rights of women and to protect children—is as valid today as it was then. They confirm the universality and validity of the WIDF programme and make it possible to continue deepening the friendship and co-operation with other organizations (trade union, youth, religious, co-operative, peace, etc.) established in the course of preparing and observing the International Women's Year as well as preparing ond holding the World Congress for International Women's Year. The activities of the WIDF are one of the mainstays of the democratic and progressive movement all over the world, and help to improve the situation of the broad masses of women, to have the problems of women as workers, mothers and citizens dealt with in accordance with the demands of our time, and to involve women in the struggle that has to be waged by society as a whole. The WIDF, together with the national organizations affiliated to it, wishes to make a contribution that is consistent with its programme to the application of the decisions of the World Congress for International Women’s Year in Berlin, GDR and the decisions of the UN World Conference of the International Women’s Year in Mexico City, in particular the World Plan of Action. New and major victories will crown the future actions of the WIDF, and inspire millions of women to join in the struggle for their rights, for the happiness of children, for solidarity and friendship, for national independence and democratic freedoms, for peace, general disarmament and social progress. Development of Work with the National Organizations — In order to improve co-operation with the national organizations affiliated to the WIDF, representatives of the governing bodies of the WIDF shall undertake study trips. 60 === [PDF page 70] === - A wide-ranging exchange of experience shall be organized among the national organizations, so as to make the life of women in different countries, the obstacles they face, their activities, their successes, and the achievements of womer in the socialist countries better known. — International, regional and national meetings, conferences, seminars and other activities held by international, national and other organizations on matters of concern to women shall be attended by WIDF representatives where possible. — Regional courses shall be organized for training leadership cadres of women’s organizations in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe. National, regional and international seminars, meetings and conferences on various themes shall be held on all continents with the participation of the WIDF national organizations together with other non-governmental organizations and social forces interested in these themes, as well as with the UN and its specialized agencies. Taking into consideration the specific problems common to women of various countries, the following activities shall be carried out: Winning, Implementing and Defending the Rights of Women as Mothers, Workers and Citizens — International conference on “The new international economic order, a guarantee for the improvement of the status of women and their participation in the development process”, in Africa; — International or regional seminar on the status of women in rural areas, in America; — International meeting of journalists on “The role of the mass media in the advancement of women”, in Europe; — Regional seminar in Europe on “Women and Work-the real reasons for discrimination and the non-materialization of equality between men and women"; — Regional meeting in Asia on women's rights problems in connection with the struggle for peace and national independence; — Regional seminar in a Middle East country on “The causes of discrimination against women and opportunities to overcome it”; — Regional meeting in Latin America on “The role of women and their organizations in defending their rights, improving and enhancing living conditions of their families, and opposing pillage by the trans-national monopolies”; — Regional seminar in Europe on “The status of migrant women workers and their families"; — Regional seminar of journalists and writers in Latin America on “Ideological penetration by imperialism with the aid of the mass media” — Regional seminar in Europe or America on “The scien and the status of women”; — Establishment of WIDF Centres in Africa, Latin America, Asia offering courses in literacy, hygiene, nutrition, manual work, etc. ic and technological revolution Defence of the Rights of all Children to Life, Well-being and Education — International conference on child problems in Latin America; — Regional seminars in Africa, America, Asia and Europe on mother and child welfare; — Regional seminars in Africa, America, Asia and Europe on “Rearing children and young people in a spirit of international solidarity, peace, friendship and understanding among peoples”. 61 === [PDF page 71] === For Peace and Universal Disarmament — International seminar on problems of peace and disarmament, against foreign military bases, for prohibition of all nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, and the establishment of nuclear-free zones in Asia; — Regional women’s conference in Australia on “The contribution of women's organizations to strengthening peace and co-operation"; — Regional seminar in the Middle East on “The role of women in the national development process and in action to secure peace”. To Win and Defend National Independence and Democratic Freedoms — International seminar on “The role and tasks of women and their organizations in in the struggle against racial discrimination, apartheid and Zionism, for national independence”—in Africa; — International seminar on “The role and tasks of women and their organizations in combatting fascist regimes and fighting for democracy and peace”—in Europe; — Regional seminar in Africa on “The role and tasks of women and their organizations in the struggle against colonialism and neo-colonialism, for national independence in Southern Africa”; — Regional seminar on “The Palestine women’s participation in the struggle for restoration of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian Arab people”—in Europe; — Regiong! seminar in North America on “Racial discrimination and equality between men and women, the status of national minorities, the high cost of living and pollution in the USA”; — Continuation of the campaign of solidarity with women, children and patriots who are victims of war, aggression, oppression, fascism, racism and zionism, and of the campaign of solidarity for the mother and child research centre in Hanoi; — Commencement of a new campaign of material support for the peoples of South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in order to help these peoples recover from the effects of the war and rebuild their countries; — Continuation of the campaign for the convening of a World Disarmament Conference as soon as possible, for the conclusion of treaties on the complete prohibition of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass extermination, and for the abrogation of all military pacts and dissolution of all military bases on foreign territory. WIDF Work in the UN and its Specialized Agencies WIDF representatives shall regularly attend meetings of the UN and its specialized agencies on questions of special interest to women. — All efforts towards adoption and implementation of a Convention on the elimination of discrimination against women in the political, economic, social and cultural fields shall be continued. — Co-operation with the Human Rights Commission and other bodies concerned with human rights problems shall be increased so that effective action may be taken against any violation of human rights. — Action shall be taken in the International Labour Organization for adoption of a new instrument relative to working women with family responsibilities. — Within the context of work with UNESCO, broad campaigns for the elimination of illiteracy shall be conducted among women in countries where this problem is particularly acute. 62 === [PDF page 72] === — Co-operation with UNICEF, WHO and the FAO shall be intensified. — The WIDF will keep its national organizations informed about its activities im the UN and its specialized agencies. WIDF Publications In the interests of periodic publication of information, the national organizations of the WIDF will be asked — to provide information on the legislation in force in their countries and its application with reference to the family, working women in town and country, young women, mother and child welfare, education, public health, and housing, including information on the application of the relevant UN Conventions and their activities in connection with these problems; — to provide regular information on their solidarity activities and on the vital problems in their countries in connection with the defence of national independence, democracy and peace. Publication of declarations, resolutions, conventions and other documents of the UN and its specialized agencies on all problems of interest for the work of the WIDF and the national organizations affiliated to it shall be continued. The content and presentation of the WIDF journal Women of the Whole World shall be further improved and the number of subscribers and readers increased. This can only be done with the assistance of the national organizations. For the purpose of carrying out the Prospective Plan, the Secretariat is instructed — to prepare concrete annual plans and submit them to the Bureau; —to prepare and hold the planned seminars, meetings and conferences with interested organizations; —to prepare the agendas, dates and venues for the coming Bureau and Council meetings. === [PDF page 73] === The Decision-making Bodies of the Women’s International Democratic Federation Elected at the 7th WIDF Congress (Berlin, 26 October 1975) Council: The WIDF Constitution stipulates that all member organizations are represented on the WIDF Council. The organizations can appoint up to three regular and three substitute members from each country to the Council. In countries with more than one organization affiliated to the WIDF, the three regular and three substitute members are appointed by common accord. Algeria, Democratic and Popular Republic Angola Benin, People’s Republic Burundi Cameroon Congo, People’s Republic Egypt, Arab Republic Gambia Lesotho Madagascar Mauritius Morocco Mozambique Namibia Nigeria Reunion Sao Tomé and Principe, Democratic Republic Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa, Republic Sudan, Democratic Republic Tunisia 64 AFRICA National Union of Algerian Women Angolan Women's Organization Democratic Women's Organization of Dahomey (ODFD) Women’s Section of the Social Union of Independent Youth of Dahomey Union of Burundian Women Democratic Union of Cameroon Women Revolutionary Women’s Union of Congo (URFC) Individual members Women’s Section, Gambia Labour Union Basutoland Congress Party Women’s League Permanent National Commission for Protection of the Rights of Women and Children of the Madagascar Solidarity Committee Mauritius Women’s Committee Mauritius Women’s Organization Women’s Section of the Socialist Union of Popular Forces Mozambique Women’s Organization Women's Section of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) Federation of Nigerian Women’s Organizations Women’s Wing of the Nigerian Trade Union Federation Women’s Union of Reunion Women’s Organization of Sao Tomé and Principe Seychelles People’s United Party Women’s League All People’s Congress Women's Organization Organization of Somali Women Women's Section of the African National Congress Sudanese Women's Union Individual members === [PDF page 74] === Zaire Zimbabwe Bangladesh Cambodia China, People's Republic India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Korea, Democratic People’s Republic Kuwait Laos Lebanon Mongolian People’s Republic Nepal Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines South Vietnam, Republic Sri Lanka Syrian Arab Republic Vietnam, Democratic Republic Yemen, People’s Democratic Republic Australia New Zealand 5 6419-2 Individual members African National Council of Zimbabwe ASIA Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (Bangladesh Women's Congress) Association of Democratic Khmer Women National Federation of Women of the People's Republic of China National Federation of Indian Women Movement of Indonesian Women (GERWANI) Democratic Organization of Iranian Women Iraqi Women's League General Federation of Iraqi Women Israeli Women’s Federation (MAPAM) Movement of Democratic Women of Israel Federation of Japanese Women's Organizations (FUDANREN) Arab Women's League of Jordan Arab Women's Organization of Jordan Women’s Organization for Struggle against Illiteracy Korean Democratic Women's Union Democratic Union of Korean Women in Japan Women’s Social and Cultural Association Association of Patriotic Laotian Women Lebanese Women’s Rights League Committee of Mongolian Women Nepal Women's Organization Organization of Omani Women Democratic Women's Association Women's Refugee Rehabilitation Association General Union of Palestinian Women Association of New Filipina (Katipunan ng Bagong Pilipina) South Vietnam Women's Union for Liberation Lanka Kantha Peramuna (Women's Front of Sri Lanka) Mathar Sangam (Women's Section of the Democratic Workers’ Congress) General Union of Syrian Arab Women Syrian Women’s League for the Protection of Mother and Child Vietnam Women's Union General Union of Yemeni Women AUSTRALIA and OCEANIA Union of Australian Women Union of New Zealand Women 65 === [PDF page 75] === Albania, People’s Republic Austria Belgium Bulgaria, People’s Republic Cyprus Czechoslovak Socialist Republic Denmark Federal Republic of Germany Finland France German Democratic Republic Great Britain Greece Hungarian People’s Republic Iceland Luxemburg Netherlands Norway Poland, People’s Republic Portugal Romania, Socialist Republic Spain Sweden Switzerland USSR West Berlin Associated Organizations Italy Yugoslavia, SFR Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Costa Rica Cuba Dominican Republic Ecuador 66 EUROPE Albanian Women's Union Democratic Women's League of Austria Women's Assembly for Peace and Welfare Committee of Bulgarian Women Pancyprian Federation of Women’s Associations Czechoslovak Women’s Union Danish Democratic Women's Federation Individual members Democratic League of Finnish Women (SNDL) Union of French Women Democratic Women’s League of Germany National Assembly of Women Greek Women's Organization National Council of Hungarian Women Iceland Women's Union for Culture and Peace Union of Luxemburg Women Movement of Netherlands Women Norwegian Women’s Association National Council of Polish Women Democratic Movement of Portuguese Women National Council of Women of the Socialist Republic of Romania Democratic Women’s Movement Swedish Women's Association (SKV) Swiss Women’s Federation for Peace and Progress Soviet Women's Committee Democratic Women’s League of Berlin Union of Italian Women Conference for Social Activities of Yugoslav Women LATIN AMERICA Women's Union of Argentina Bolivian Women’s Union Committee of Brazilian Women Chilean Women's Union Unidad Popular Women's Front Union of Democratic Women of Colombia Costa Rica Women’s Alliance Federation of Cuban Women Women’s Group United Front of Women of Ecuador === [PDF page 76] === Guadeloupe Guatemala Guyana Haiti Honduras Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Puerto Rico El Salvador Uruguay Venezuela Canada USA President: Honorary Vice-Presidents: Rada Todorova Hortensia Bussi de Allende Gusta Fucikova Ceza Nabrawi Marie Pritt Ransome Kuti Dolores Ibarruri Julia Arevalo Bureau: the President: the General Secretary the Vice-Presidents: Union of Guadeloupean Women Individual members Women's Progressive Organization Haiti Women’s Union Honduras Women’s Association Women’s Union of Martinique National Union of Mexican Women Women’s Coordinating Committee for the Defense of the Homeland Nicaraguan Women’s Federation Democratic Women’s Organization of Nicaragua Women's Commission for the Defence of the Rights of Woman and Child National Federation of Democratic Women (FENAMUDE) Women’s Union of Paraguay Popular Union of Peruvian Women (UPMP) Federation of Puerto Rican Women Progressive Women's Association of El Salvador Coordinating Commission of Uruguayan Women Women’s Section of the International Solidarity Committee (COSI) NORTH AMERICA Congress of Canadian Women Women for Racial and Economic Equality (WREE) Freda Brown, Australia Bulgaria, People’s Republic Chile Czechoslovak Socialist Republic Egypt, Arab Republic Great Britain Nigeria Spain Uruguay Members of the Bureau of the Women's International Democratic Federation are: Freda Brown, Australia Fanny Edelman, Argentina Fethia Bettahar National Union of Algerian Women (Algeria) Vilma Espin de Castro Federation of Cuban Women (Cuba) Gisele Theret Union of French Women (France) 67 === [PDF page 77] === and other members from Angola Argentina Canada Chile Costa Rica Czechoslovak Socialist Republic Great Britain Guyana Iraq sy Korea, Democratic People’s Republic Mongolian People’s Republic Mozambique Palestine Portugal Somalia South Africa, Republic Sudan, Democratic Republic United States of America Uruguay The President of the Finance Control Commission Ilse Thiele Democratic Women's League of Germany (German Democratic Republic) Aruna Asaf Ali, National Federation of Indian Women (India) Fuki Kushida Federation of Japanese Women's Organizations (FUDANREN) (Japan) Valentina Nikolayeva-Tereshkova Soviet Women's Committee (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) a representative of Vietnam Angolan Women’s Organization Women’s Union of Argentina Congress of Canadian Women Chilean Women’s Union Costa Rica Women's Alliance Czechoslovak Women’s Union National Assembly of Women of Great Britain Women’s Progressive Organization Iraqi Women’s League Korean Democratic Women’s Union Committee of Mongolian Women Mozambique Women's Organization General Union of Palestinian Women Democratic Movement of Portuguese Women Organization of Somali Women Women’s Section of the African National Congress Sudanese Women's Union Women for Racial and Economic Equality Co-ordinating Commission of Uruguayan Women Edith Erdei National Council of Hungarian Women Hungarian People’s Republic takes part in the meetings of the Bureau. Finance Control Commission: The Finance Control Commission consists of the Commission President Edith Erdei Hungarian People’s Republic National Council of Hungarian Women and one representative of each of the following national organizations: Democratic Women's League of Germany Lebanese Women’s Rights League 68 German Democratic Republic Lebanon === [PDF page 78] === Permanent National Commission for Protection of the Rights of Women and Children of the Madagascar Solidarity Committee Democratic Women's League of Austria Democratic Women’s Association Women’s Section of the International Solidarity Committee Madagascar Austria Pakistan Venezuela Secretariat: The members of the Secretariat of the Women's International Democratic Federation are: Fanny Edelman, General Secretary and representatives of national organizations in the following countries: The Treasurer the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Women of the Whole World the Secretary of the Secretariat Argentina Chile France India Iraq Japan Romania, Socialist Republic Spain South Africa Union of Soviet Socialist Republics a Latin American country Bulgaria, People’s Republic Poland, People’s Republic German Democratic Republic regularly take part in the meetings of the Secretariat === [PDF page 79] === Closing Address Freda Brown President of the WIDF Dear Friends, First let me thank our General Secretary, Fanny Edelman, very much for continuing in the work that she has done so magnificently for all of us and for all the women of the world. Let me congratulate the Honorary Vice-Presidents on their appointment, the Vice-Presidents, the members of the Bureau and the Secretariat on their election, but especially the new members that have joined us. Thirty-seven friends contributed to the discussion, and | think the proposals made will very much strengthen our work. Well, my dear friends, our Congress is drawing to a close. Let me thank you all for the excellent work that you have done. Let us again express our heartfelt thanks to the Government of the German Democratic Republic for their generous hospitality. And will you please join with me in thanking the many men and women who have worked behind the scenes. | think we must especially thank those who decorated this hall and gave us. such beautiful surroundings for our Congress. | know that you all want to thank the translators and interpreters without whose help we would not have been able to understand each other. Our heartfelt thanks go also, dear friends, to the catering staff in the hotel and the restaurant who looked after us so very, very well every moment of the day, and | am sure each of you will individually, but let us collectively, thank the drivers who always did their very best to get us here on time, although we didn’t always let them succeed. And most of all | want to thank our friends from the Democratic Women's League of Germany, all the people of Berlin, for being such wonderful hosts and for the magnificent gift that they gave us last night, the most exciting concert that | have ever seen. Dear friends, we have adopted important resolutions which will be the guidelines for the activities of WIDF and its affiliated organizations in the years to come. These resolutions will help us to fulfil the tasks ahead, | think, with greater unity. We take natural pride in the fact that the initiative for the proclamation of 1975 as International Women's Year came from WIDF, and led to the problems of women being discussed in every country, at every level, by social forces and by governments. How happy would the two presidents Mme Cotton and Hertta Kuusinen be to have been with us over these days and this year to see the success, and particularly to be here today and see all the wonderful young women that are now carrying on their work. We can feel proud that in the 30 years that our Federation has been in existence it has in fact become the centre of the international women’s movement. This has been very apparent in the course of International Women's Year. The WIDF has become a point of convergence for all women participating on an equal footing with men in the development of their countries, in decisions respecting war and peace, in the attainment of national independence, family happiness and social progress. We can say today that the holding of the 7th Congress immediately after the World Congress, which was the highlight of International Women's Year, was a great success and was of great benefit to us in our work. The decisions of the World Congress, in which so many international, regional and.national women’s organizations participated, were very 70 === [PDF page 80] === stimulating for our Congress. The decisions which we have adopted at the 7th. Congress will contribute to the implementation of the Plan of Action adopted at the United Nations Conference in Mexico, as well as the decisions and the recommendations of the World Congress for International Women's Year which took place here in Berlin, capital of the GDR. They will promote the interests of women and children, of peace, of national independence and social progress. Our Congress has adopted a prospective plan for the next few years. If this plan can be made a reality, then our national organizations will be strengthened. Solidcarity which is the guarantee of victory, must be intensified, and the interests of women alll over the world upheld. We have elected the decision-making bodies of the WIDF—the Council, the Bureau and the Secretariat—-and again let me say how deeply honoured | am to be elected President of this great international organization. | should like to thank you on behalf of the decision-making bodies and assure you that we will do our utmost to work as a well-functioning team so that we can more effectively tackle the great tasks that lie ahead in the interests of a better life for women and for our people. Dear friends, the events of the past few days and the 7th Congress, which is now coming to an end, were a stirring expression of friendship and of solidarity. They demonstrated our firm determination to intensify the struggle against imperialism and for our rights and for a happy future. We shall return to our countries in the certain knowledge that, thanks to the tilting of the balance of power in the world in our favour, new conditions have been created which will enable us to make our work for Progress in the world more successful. So let us proceed along this tried and tested path which is leading us in ever greater numbers towards our common goal: a happy future for our children, for their children, a really free and a just society. Long live the Women’s International Democratic Federation.