NAWSA Subject File International [Woman's Suffrage] Alliance of Women BERLIN 1904 SUF FRA GII JUS COLOMBO 1955 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights . . Equal Responsibilities ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Droits égaux . . Responsabilités égales REPORT OF THE SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS COLOMBO August 17th — September 1st, 1955 INDEX English Francais page page Affiliated and adhering societies............... 4 4 Committees: Admissions -- Executive -- Finance -- International -- Permanent --- Regional 3 3 Congress........................................................ 8 75 Delegates' list................................................ 147 Electron of Board and Officers............... 64 138 Entertainments.............................................. 65 139 Finances: 1952 --- 1954............................. 27 Congress 1955.......................... 62 62 Foreword......................................................... 6 73 Reports : Admissions................................................. 28 Board and Headquarters...................... 9 76 International Women's News.............. 25 96 Standing Committees: Equal Civil and Political Rights........... 28 96 - Economic Rights.......................... 32 102 - Educational Rights...................... 37 107 - Moral Standard............................. 39 110 Peace and Human Relations.................... 41 112 Treasurer............................................................. 26 95 U. N> Representatives................................... 72 113 Resolutions: General Declaration....................................... 46 119 Civil and Political Rights............................... 47 120 Economic Rights.............................................. 48 121 Education Rights.............................................. 50 123 Moral Standard............................................... 51 125 Peace and Human Relations....................... 52 126 Study Course at Colombo.............................. 54 128 Work Programme 1955 --- 1958.................. 69 143 Vote of Thanks.................................................... 67 141 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN To Mrs. Guy W. Stantial, with affection and appreciation With the Secretary's Compliments Vester Søgade 48 Copenhagen - Denmark INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights Equal Responsibilities ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Droits égaux Responsabilités égales REPORT OF THE SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS COLOMBO August 17th - September 1st, 1955 Secretariat : Vester Søgade 48, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Avec les Compliments de la Secretaire Vester Søgade 48 Copenhagen - Denmark INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights Equal Responsibilities ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Droits égaux Responsabilités égales REPORT OF THE SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS COLOMBO August 17th - September 1st, 1955 Secretariat: VESTER SØGADE 48, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK Hon. Presidents: Mrs. Margery Corbett Ashby, Wickens, Birch Grove, Haywards Heath, Sussex, U. K. Dr. Hanna Rydh, Johannesgatan 20, Stockholm, Sweden. Hon. Vice-Presidents: Mrs. Adèle Schreiber, Herrliberg near Zurich, Switzerland. Miss Marie Ginsberg, Avenue Montchoix 78, Genève, Switzerland. Mrs. B. M. Rischbieth, 547 Hay Street, Perth, W. Australia. Mrs. Nina Spiller, 7 Kensington Park Garden, London W. 11, U.K. Hon. Member: Mrs. Ellen Hagen, Engelbrecktsgatan 25, Stockholm, Sweden. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President: Miss Ester Graff, Vester Sögade 48, Copenhagen V., Denmark. Vice-Presidents: Mrs. Ezlynn Deraniyagala, 15 Race Course Avenue, Colombo 7, Ceylon. Princess Safiyeh Firouz, 122 Avenue Pasteur, Teheran, Iran. Dr. Andrée Lehmann, 3 rue Victor Massé, Paris 9, France. Dr. Bertha Lutz, Avenida Tijuca 230, Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hon. Secretary: Dr. Antoinette Quinche, 2 Avenue d'Evian, Lausanne, Switzerland. Hon. Treasurer: Mrs. Eva Kolstad, Schievesgate 6 B, Oslo, Norway. Members: Begum Anwar Ahmed, 43 N. Block 6 PFCHS, Karachi, Pakistan. Mrs. Edith Anrep, 76 Riddargatan, Stockholm, Sweden. Mrs. Leila Basnayake, 39 Elibank Road, Colombo 5, Ceylon. Mrs. Hacer Bizden Boray, Akay sokak 16/10, Ankara, Turkey. Mrs. Amy Bush, 45 Magdalen Road, London S. W. 18, U. K. Mrs. Daniela Celcis, c/o Electric Light Co., Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Miss Chave Collisson, 10 Thurlow Road, London N. W. 3, U. K. Miss Mary J. Francken, Hobbemakade 95, Amsterdam-Z-1, Netherlands. Mrs. Wadea Khartabil, Hamka Bld., Bliss St., Ras Beirut, Lebanon. Miss Margaret Mathieson, Corkers Wood, Penn. Bucks., U. K. Mrs. Terue Otsuki, 410 Daita 1-chome, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Mrs. Carmela Renner, Fintryhouse, Penn Rd., Beaconsfield, Bucks., U.K. Dr. Teresita Scelba, 48 Via Fontanella di Borghese, Rome, Italy. Mrs. Nahid Sirry, 12 Shagaret el Dorr, Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt. PERMANENT COMMITTEES -- PRESIDENTS Equal Civil and Political Rights -- Egalité de Droits Civils et Politiques: Dr. Lehmann. Equal Economic Rights -- Egalité de Droits Economiques: Mrs. Casinader, (80 Westbourne Court, Orsett Terrasse, London W. 2.). Equal Educational Rights -- Egalité de Droits de l'Education: Mrs. Bush, President, Mrs. Waheed, Miss Francken, Vice-Presidents. Equal Moral Standard -- Unité de la Morale: Miss Collisson, President, Mrs. Bizden Boray, Miss Otsuki, Vice-Presidents. Peace and Human Relations -- Paix et Relations Humaines: Mrs. Corbett Ashby. ADMISSION COMMITTEE Miss Ester Graff, President, Mrs. Ezlynn Deraniyagala, Dr. A. Quinche. FINANCE COMMITTEE Dr. Hanna Rydh, President. INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE The Executive Committee of the I. A. W. and the Presidents of its affiliated organizations. REGIONAL COMMITTEE Africa. . . . . . . . . Mrs. Carmela Renner Asia. . . . . . . . . . . Begum Shamsun Nahar Mahmood Europe. . . . . . . . Miss Ester Graff Middle East. . . . Princess Safiyeh Firouz S. America. . . . . Dr. Bertha Lutz 3 SOCIETIES AFFILIATED TO THE INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN AUSTRALIA - Australian Federation of Women Voters. President: Mrs. B. M. Rischbieth, Literary Institute, 547 Hay St., Perth, Western Australia. BARBADOS - The Caribbean Women's Alliance (Barbados). President: Mrs. V. Marshall, "Fleetwood", Black Rock, St. Michael, B.W.1. BRAZIL - Brazilian Federation for the Advancement of Women. President: Dr. Bertha Lutz, Avenida Tijuca 230, Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro. CEYLON - All-Ceylon Women's Conference. President: Mrs. Ezlynn Deraniyagala, 15 Race Course Ave., Colombo 7. DENMARK - Dansk Kvindesamfund (Danish Women's Society). President: Mrs. Hanne Budtz, Niels Hemmingsensgade 10, Copenhagen K. EGYPT - Union Feministe Egyptienne. President: Mme Nahid Sirry, 22 Sharia Kasr el Aini, Cairo. Union Bent-el-Nil. President: Mrs. Doria Shafik, 48 Rue Kasr EL-NIL, Cairo. ETHIOPIA - Ethiopian Women's Work Association. President: Princess Tenagne, Boite Postale 1805, Addis Abeba. FINLAND - Federation of Auxiliaries. President: Fil. dr. Anitra Karsten, Kasärngatan 14, Helsingfors. FRANCE - Ligue Française pour le Droit des Femmes. President: Dr. Andrée Lehmann, 3 rue Victor Massé, Paris 9e. Association des Femmes de l'Union Française. President: Mme J. Kopp, 184 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris VI. Union Féminine Nationale des Femmes Chefs d'Enterprises. President: Mme Marguerite Boyer, 448 rue Paradis, Marseille. GERMANY - Deutscher Frauenring. President: Dr. Else Ulich-Beil, Lietzensee Ufer 3, Berlin-Charlottenburg 5. GREAT BRITAIN - Women's Freedom League. President: Miss Marian Reeves, 144 High Holborn, London W.C.1. National Women's Citizens' Association. President: Mrs. N. Hodgson, Livingstone House, Broadway, London S.W.1. Suffragette Fellowship. President: Mrs. Winifred Mayo, 26 West End Lane, London, N.W. 6. GREECE - Ligue Hellenique pour le Droit des Femmes. President: Mme Avra S. Theodoropoulu, 16 Odos Dyonisos, Kifissia, Athens. HAITI - Ligue Féminine d'Action Sociale. President: Mrs. Cléante Desgraves-Valcín, B.P. 111 B., Port-au-Prince. ICELAND - Kvenrettindafjelag Islands. President: Mrs. Sigridur J. Magnusson, Laugaveg 82, Reykjavik. IRAN - The Women's Council of Iran. President: Princess Safiyeh Firouz, c/o Mrs. Majid Movaghar, 293 Hedayat Avenue, Teheran. Zoroastrian Women's Organisation. President: Mrs. Manijeh Shahrokh, c/o Mrs. Farangis Yeganegi, Villa Avenue 117, Teheran. IRAQ - Iraqi Women Union. President: Mrs. Asia Wahbi, Waziriyah, Baghdad. IRELAND - Intern. Sub-Committee of the Irish Housewives Association. President: Mrs. Dixon, 5 Leinster St., Dublin. 4 ISRAEL - Israel Women's Equal Rights Association. President: Dr. Anna Brachyahu, P.O. Box 371, Jerusalem. League for Women's Rights in Israel. President: Dr. Tehila Matmon, P.O. Box 1016, Tel-Aviv. Israel Federation of Womens International Zionist Organisations. President: Mrs. Jenny Blumenfield, 8 Beth-Hashoeva Lane, Tel-Aviv. ITALY - Alleanza Femminile Italiana. President: Dr. Teresita Sandesky-Scelba, Via Fontanella di Borghese 48, Rome. JAMAICA - Jamaica Federation of Women. President: Lady Foot, King's House, Kingston. JAPAN - League of Women Voters. President: Mrs. Kie Saito, 889 5-chome, Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. JORDAN - Arab Women Alliance. President: Miss Emily Bisharet, P.O. Box 286, Amman. LEBANON - The Palestinian Arab Women League. President: Mrs. Wadeeáa Kaddoura Khartabil, Fareedeh Elias Rbeiz Building, Bliss Street - Ras Beirut, Beirut. Arab Women's Federation. President: Miss Ibtihaj Kaddoura, c/o Dr. Mrs. Ibrahim Shehadi, Rue Mamari, Ras Beirut. NEPAL - Women's Voluntary Services of Nepal. President: Princess Princep Shah, Barak Bagh, Singha Durbar, Kathmandu. NETHERLANDS - Ned. Ver. voor Vrouwenbelangen, Vrouwenarbeid en Geiijk Staatsburgerschap. President: Dr. J. M. Stoffels-van Haaften, Jan van Nassaustraat 1, The Hague. NEW ZEALAND - United Women's Council. President: Mrs. Armitage, c/o Electrical Construction Co., Fort St., Auckland. NIGERIA - Women's Improvement Society. President: Mrs. Tanimowo Ogunlesi, P.O. Box 311, Ibadan, W. Nigeria. NORWAY - Norsk Kvinnesaksforening. c/o Mrs. Eva Kolstad, Schievesgate 6 B, Oslo. PAKISTAN - All Pakistan Women's Association. President: Begum Chandhari Mohamed Ali, Union Jack Club, Victoria Road, Karachi. PHILIPPINES - League of Women Voters of the Philippines. President: Mrs. Paz M. Catolico, Administration Building, International Fair, San Luis Str., Manila. SWEDEN - Fredrika-Bremer-Förbundet. President: Mrs. Elsa Ewerlöf, Klarabergsgatan 48, Stockholm. Svenska Kvinnors Medborgarförbund. President: Mrs. Ellen Hagen, Engelbrecktsgatan 25, Stockholm. SWITZERLAND - Association Suisse pour le Suffrage Féminin. President: Mme A. Choisy-Necker, Satigny, Genève. SYRIA - Union des Femmes de Syrie. President: Mme l'Emir Moiktar Abdelkader al Tazairy, Damascus. THAILAND - Thai Women's Association. President: Mrs. Udom Laksana Sriyanonda, Petchburi Road, Bangkok. TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - The Coterie of Social Workers of Trinidad and Tobago, Inc. President: Hon. Miss Audrey Jeffers, M.B.E. 52 Edward St., Port of Spain, Trinidad B.W. 1. The Trinidad and Tobago League of Women Voters. President: Mrs. Leonora Pujudas Mc-Shine, 20 Rust St., Port of Spain, Trinidad B.W. 1. TURKEY - Turkish Women's Association. President: Mrs. Nazli Tlabar, P.K. 1106, Ankara. Adhering Societies: GREAT BRITAIN - Married Women's Association. President: Mrs. J. Frances, 20 Buckingham Str., London W.C. 2. SWEDEN - Svenska Mödrars Fredsförbund. President: Mrs. Ebba Traneus, Surbrunnsgatan 4, Stockholm. 5 FOREWORD The past six years have seen at steady increase in the national membership of the INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE of WOMEN --particularly in the economically less developed areas. It was therefore decided at Naples, in 1952, to hold our next Triennial Congress in the East. By so doing it was hoped to help the great number of Eastern women in their basic problems, and to encourage them to accept more responsibility in national and international community affairs. It was also felt that understanding of Eastern environments could produce a realistic feminism which would enrich the I. A. W.'s contribution not only to the women of this region, but indeed to the members of our societies in all parts of the world. A invitation of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference to come to Colombo was accepted and a suggestion by UNESCO that a Study Course be organized in connection with the Congress gave us a fine opportunity to celebrate our Golden Jubilee by breaking away from the traditional pattern of Congresses. A programme was drawn up in which Congress Business was combined with periods of lectures by experts, Study groups, discussion etc., and the duration was extended from the normal 9 days to 16. This gave the delegations from the 29 participating countries a much better chance of contributing their special experience and of having their society's particular problems discussed. So did also the adopted resolutions and work programme become wider in scope. Another promising feature worth recording, is that many more societies had succeeded in obtaining financial help towards the 6 travel costs of their delegations from their respective governments and/or national funds -- than at any previous Congress of the I. A. W. This, it was felt, indicates the growing recognition of our movement. It is with keen pleasure that I present this report, and in addition to the votes of thanks by the Congress, I take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to all and everyone --delegates, donators, hosts, lecturers, organizers -- who each in their own valuable way contributed so much to making this my first Congress as President such an unforgettable experience for me personally and such a success of this historical event -- the first International Women's Movement Congress ever being held in Asia. Ester Graff President. 7 THE INAUGURATION OF THE GOLDEN JUBILEE CONGRESS This was held in the beautiful hall of St. Bridget's School on August 18th. The pillars were garlanded with creepers and golden coconut flowers, and the platform was gorgeously decorated in traditional style with paper frills arranged in patterns of red, green, blue, and yellow. Delegates, members of the diplomatic corps, and the public were in their places for the arrival of H. E. Sir Oliver Goonetilleke, the Governor-General. In procession with the President Miss Ester Graff, and Honorary Presidents of the Alliance, he was conducted to the dais by young Kandyan boy dancers. Mrs. Deraniyagala, President of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference, said that it was a matter of pride that Ceylon had been chosen for the Congress. H. E. the Governor-General spoke of the great work being done by the women's societies in Ceylon. They would gain fresh inspiration from the Congress for the service of their country. Dr. N. M. Perera, Mayor of Colombo, welcomed the delegates, and referred to the International Alliance of Women as a beacon light for the women of Asia, where the barriers of caste, creed, and sex were so hard to break. Our President, replying, said that the world urgently needed the full contribution of women, and it was the aim of the I. A. W. to see that woman was given the opportunity and recognised as a person. Thus the object of the I. A. W. was the same and had always been that which is now proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the subjects to be studied at this Conference are all relating to conditions likely to promote a better application of this Declaration -- naturally in particular as they affect women, but not only such. The Roll-Call of delegates was a colourful feature. The leader of each delegation came up to be presented to the Governor-General, and was then garlanded with jasmine flowers in traditional Ceylonese manner. Greetings came from Mr. James B. Orrick, UN Director of Information Centre for India, Burma & Ceylon, and from representatives of the Regions: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. Sir Oliver then lit the pana to symbolise the opening of the Congress, and as each President lit a wick the great candelabra became a blaze of light. 8 THE WORK OF THE BOARD AND HEADQUARTERS Meetings of the Board Since the Naples Congress in 1952, the Board elected there met in Copenhagen (June 1953), in London (June 1954) and in Paris (February 1955). Each meeting has been attended by more than half the members, indeed a commendable number in view of the regretable facts that the I. A. W. has had no budget for travel assistance to the Board and that the cost of travel is constantly increasing. The London meeting was attended by more than three fourths of the members and 15 nationalities were represented thanks to the Hon. President Mrs. Corbett Ashby who generously offered hospitality to the Board in her lovely home outside London. In addition to the annual Board Meetings the President has met and discussed business with Hon. President, Dr. Rydh (in Copenhagen, Oct. 1952 and in Lund, April 1955), with Maitre Lehmann (in Paris, Nov. 1952), and with Maitre Quinche (in Bern, April 1953). Small meetings have been held in Stockholm (July 1953) by the President, the two Hon. Presidents, Miss Ginsberg and Mrs. Key Aberg, in Copenhagen with Dr. Scelba and Mrs. Firouz (May 1954), and in London (January 1954 and February 1955) with the Board Members resident in London, plus in the first case Mrs. Deraniyagala and Mrs. Everts Goddard. The International Committee (Board and Presidents of affiliated societies sitting together) met in London in June 1954. 21 countries were represented by 32 delegates and a detailed report on the lively and valuable discussions was issued and distributed to all affiliations in Nov. 1954. Whenever Board Members have met, the affiliations in the host country arranged for the visiting Board Members to meet with members of their societies and it is our feeling that these meetings have been of mutual value to the Board and the affiliations in question. Membership of the Board The Board of the I. A. W. suffered a very great loss by the sudden and tragic death of Mme Jeanne Vialle in February 1953. Mme Vialle, half African and half French, was a most competent expert in slavery problems and indefatigable in striving to improve the Status of African women, -- Mme Ceza Nabaraouy, whose name 9 and untiring work for the cause of women in Egypt and throughout the Middle East is well known to Alliance Members withdrew from the Board in 1953. To fill the two vacancies the Board co-opted in 1954 Mrs. Carmela Renner of Sierra Leone to replace Mme Vialle and Mme Nahid Sirry, President of the more than thirty years old "Union Féministe Egyptienne" to replace Mme Nabaraouy. Both members soon probed to be valuable assets to the I. A. W. Personal Contact with Affiliations The President until recently having had a full time occupation has been able to make only few journeys in the period under review, having spent her annual holidays on Board Meetings and the Danish Study Course reported on below. Shortly after her election in 1952 she participated in a Unesco non-governmental organization meeting and attended the opening and some sessions of the biannual General Conference of Unesco, in Paris to gain some experience in this to her entirely new field of I. A. W. activities. In the Spring of 1953 she paid visits to the German Affiliation's Headquarters in West Berlin and to its branches in Hamburg, Hannover and Frankfurt. Her journey continued to Switzerland where she was received by branches of the Swiss affiliation in Basel and Bern and she had also here most inspiring talks and discussions with our members. The goal of her journey was Zurick where she was cordially invited to spend a few days in the home of Dr. Eder, President of the International Council of Women, to discuss problems common to our two old organizations. When visiting London in February 1954 the President felt that she had her hitherto in life most unforgetable experience due to a magnificent but tight programme drawn up by the I. A. W. British Board Members to meet not only members of our British affiliations but also several societies of overseas women. She, here, had her first real opportunity to learn about women and their problems in far away countries not easily reached. However, many new valuable personal contacts were made and old bonds strengthened in the East by the Hon. President, Dr. Hanna Rydh who on two journeys to India made long detours to visit our affiliations in Israel, Pakistan, Thailand, Ceylon, Japan, Philippines, and outstanding women leaders in f. inst. Burma, India, Indonesia and Nepal. New Affiliations A separate report will be presented by the Admission Committee but we wish to draw attention to the fact that subject to approval of the applications by the Congress the number of member societies 10 is in the Golden Jubilee year greater than at any time in the history of the I. A. W. and also that about two thirds of the countries represented are in economically less developed areas. This is a matter for rejoicing as it shows that the I. A. W. is moving with the times and that leading women of such areas appreciate the support and encouragement that the I. A. W., to the best of its ability, is lending them in their difficult task of raising their women with the men and in their battle for the application of equal rights and equal responsibilities as educated citizens. On the other hand, we regret to report that on women winning the suffrage one of our affiliations in Lebanon, the "Fédération Féminine du Liban" has disbanded, and also that the addresses from the Naples Congress to the All-India Women's Conference and to the League of Women Voters of the U.S.A. to consider re-affiliation have been unanswered. However, in the same breath we wish to add with gratitude that members of both the Indian and American organizations have taken active part in special projects of the I. A. W. during the years under review. Individual Members Before the war, in 1939, individual members, subscribing £ 1 a year and upwards and receiving, post free, the "International Women's News" numbered 158. -- Since the war much effort has been made to secure new members and to-day (July 1955) we have 410 such members on our lists who with some exceptions are up to date with their subscriptions. It is our hope that this more than doubling of members will encourage our friends to make joint efforts with us to secure more members who are really needed in view of the fact that the fee has remained unchanged since 1939 whereas printing of the News and postage have been constantly increasing. 10 sh. direct subscribers on the contrary are less than in 1939 when the number was reported to be 157 compared with 137 now. International Women's News The Hon. Editors of the International Women's News will themselves present a report but in this connection we feel it our duty to remind the I. A. W. members of the continuous work undertaken by the Hon. President Mrs. Corbett Ashby, and Mrs. Spiller who without remuneration, with no funds for secretarial help, nor for the payment of contributors each month furnish us with news and opinions and views on matters of vital concern for us and our members, and provide us with facts and convincing arguments in favour of our cause. The I. W. N. is the face which the 11 I. A. W. presents to the world, it is appreciated also by international official bodies, the press and many others outside the I. A. W. family and for this the Editors deserve our gratitude and also that our members assist the Board in securing many more subscribers to make the paper run at a less heavy loss than it does at the moment. In Memoriam There are a few names in addition to Jeanne Vialle we must recall of those who passed away since 1952. Lady Pethick-Lawrence whose name is forever connected with women's emancipation and especially with the British militant suffrage campaign. Mrs. Ingeborg Hansen, President of the Senate of Denmark and for many years a most active member of the Board of the I. A. W. Mrs. Maud Wood Park of Massachusetts who stood by the side of the I. A. W.s Founder President, Carrie Chapman Catt. Her devotion to the I. A. W. was strong and sincere. In March 1955, shortly before she closed her eyes forever she sent her cordial congratulations to our Colombo Congress for the continuous interest and activity which have made possible this fiftieth anniversary celebration. The names of Dr. Smith, Mrs. Anderson and Miss V. M. M. Vicat Cole all of Great Britain may only be remembered by a few of our old members but their devotion to the I. A. W. and belief in its future work was so great that in their wills they made a bequest to the I. A. W. "Journey Towards Freedom" At the Naples Congress some of our newer members felt that they badly missed a history of the I. A. W. and that they needed the encouragement that would be gained by learning about the fight and co-operation that has immensely improved the status of women during the past fifty years. This excellent suggestion has materialized. The "Journey Towards Freedom" has been written for the Golden Jubilee of the I. A. W. by Hon. Vice-President, Adele Schreiber who stood at the cradle of the I. A. W. half a century ago, and Margaret Mathieson, one of our younger Board Members. Our grateful thanks are due to the two authors who voluntarily have collated material from numerous sources and shaped it into a book that has all chances of becoming a "best- seller" in the constantly widening circle of persons sympathizing with out work, and of giving our cause a good push forward if only our members will help in spreading knowledge of its existence and even more so in selling it. The greater part of the printing costs has been borne by the Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund, Inc., a research and educational 12 fund created in 1947 by the League of Women Voters of the U. S. A. to honour the memory of our dear Founder by carrying on the work to which she devoted her life. We are more than grateful for this help, which means that after the costs of freight have been met the money made in selling "Journey Towards Freedom" will help the Alliance along the road of its next fifty years' journey. Regional Activities Special attention was focussed on the economically less developed areas when at the Naples Congress its Ceylonese affiliate requested the I. A. W. to form regional groups so that the problems of each area might be worked out according to its peculiar needs. It will be remembered that the I. A. W. readily appreciated this point of view and divided its work programme into five regions: Africa, Asia and the Far East, Europe, Latin America, Middle East. Mrs. Deraniyagala, President of the I. A. W. affiliation in Ceylon was appointed Director for Asia and the Far East and during the next 18 months she ad her regional Committee in Ceylon worked hard at organizing her area, and the culmiation of her activities was reached in the Conference, held in Colombo, July 1954, when delegates from Ceylon, India, Indonesia, Japan, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines attended. A most interesting detailed report of this Conference on Education of Women in a Changing East has been forwarded to all I. A. W. affiliates. Thus the regional activities of the I. A. W. in Asia and the Far East have begun in real earnest and appears full of promise. It is the sincere hope of the Board that the planned discussion on regional work during the Jubilee Congress will result in activity taken up by the other regions which each has its valid excuse for not yet having organized the work or a project: African due to the sudden death of Mme Vialle and the long seeking with candles to find her successor for the region, the withdrawal of Mrs. Nabaraouy who in 1954 was succeeded by Mrs. Firouz as regional director for the Middle East. Dr. Lutz, Director for the Latin American region took steps to organize a meeting in Haiti in Nov. 1954 on the occasion of the meeting of the Inter-American Commission of Women to be held then and there. However, due to the severe cataclysm which harried Haiti that Autumn both Meetings were cancelled. Mrs. Everts Goddard who was one of the eminent hostesses to the I. A. W. Congress in Amsterdam in 1948 and who was nominated director for the European region has over a long period suffered from illness and when recovered has much to hers and our regret been unable to give enough of her time to the I. A. W. and its work for which she has a true vocation. 13 Four Weeks Study Course in Denmark The first forty years of the I. A. W.'s work has naturally been accomplished mainly in Europe. After the last world war when women in economically less developed areas began to take more responsibility in community affairs –– national and international –– the I. A. W. made special attempts to include these women in the programme. In 1949 and 1950 the I. A. W. under the then President of the I. A. W., Dr. Rydh, and our Swedish affiliations arranged and sponsored in Sweden Study courses in Social and Political development, over eight weeks in 1948 for women from the East, and six weeks in 1950 for women from the Middle East, Asia, Europe and U. S. A. (Detailed reports are included in the Naples Congress Report.) During the period under review, in the summer of 1954 the I. A. W. under its present President in co-operation with the Danish affiliation followed the Swedish example and arranged and sponsored a four weeks study course in Denmark with delegates from 27 countries f. inst. Brazil, Ceylon, Egypt, Greece, Haiti, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Turkey, Yugoslavia. All the I. A. W.'s affiliations were invited to send each a delegate to come as a guest of Denmark. Part of the time the delegates stayed with members of the Danish affiliation in Copenhagen and in small provincial towns, two weeks were spent at the Folk Highschool at Elsinore, first together with an equal number of members of the Danish affiliation for discussions on "Women in the Community", afterwards by themselves when lectures were given by Danish experts on "Social and Cultural Services in Denmark". From the Folk Highschool the group went to the Women's College at the Aarhus University where it stayed while visiting social institutions in Aarhus. The project was designed with the object of promoting international understanding, broadening our outlook as citizens and for gaining stimulus to our thoughts and activities as society members, and in all respects became a success far greater than the organizers had ever dared to dream of. So it was also a fine selection of housewives, professional women and students, experienced senior members and keen junior members, all actively engaged in the work of their societies. 39 delegates eager to see and learn came to discuss the many problems our societies are struggling with both for women and their country, and they did it in an admirably democratic manner. About one third of the delegates were below the age of 35 –– a promising feature for the future of the I. A. W. 14 We feel indebted to the Danish affiliation, the Danish Government and a number of Danish firms for generous grants to cover the cost of the scheme, to UNESCO for allocating travel grants to Denmark for two delegates from the Middle East, and to the Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund for their invaluable assistance in securing travel grants for two delegates from Africa and one from the Middle East. Work with the U. N., I. L. O., UNESCO and other U. N. Agencies This important field of our works is growing from year to year. The International governmental bodies realise more and more that co-operation with non-governmental organizations is necessary towards the implementation of the Humans Rights Declaration. A separate report will be presented to the Congress by the I. A. W. accredited representatives to the U. N. Economic and Social Council and its Commissions on the Status of Women and on Human Rights, in New York. A study of this report and of the reports of the Chairmen of our five Standing Committees will give a picture of the co-operation with the various U. N. bodies, and, we hope, will appeal to the sense of duty of our affiliations whose reply to our questionnaires is of material importance to enable us to furnish the U. N. and its agencies, at their request, with information as to our societies' views on the relevant conditions in their countries and/or constructive suggestions as to improvements. In addition to U. N. bodies' businesses reported on in the Standing Committee reports during the period under review the following matters dealt with the I. A. W. are also worth mentioning: Eradication of Prejudice and Discrimination. The U. N. Human Rights Commission has for several years been deeply concerned with this matter. Sub-Commissions have been established to draw up a future working programme in the field of Prevention of Discrimination, and non-governmental organizations active in this field have been invited to collaborate in such studies. In September 1953, the NGO's were thus asked whether they considered it advisable that U. N. convened a conference for interested NGO's to meet and exchange views concerning the most effective means of combating discrimination and to consider the possibility of establishing common objectives and programmes, and should our reply be in the affirmative the U. N. would appreciate receiving from us a brief summary of our activities relating to this problem. We replied that the I. A. W. was greatly in favour of the convening of such a conference. We enclosed a brief summary of our activities relating to this problem and pointed out that in 15 accordance with its constitution the I. A. W. was especially active in the field of combating all forms of discrimination on account of sex, whether of a legal, legislative, conventional or moral character, and also in combating racial discrimination as we considered this one of the most potent sources of international tensions. The I. A. W. was also invited by the Sub-Commission on the matter of (a) political rights, (b) religious rights and practices, and (c) emigration, immigration and travel, to furnish it with advice relevant to the studies of these subjects. The I. A. W. gave the following advice: Political Rights: The studies should not be confined to existing legislation but also include the real facts which often prevent women from exercising their political rights. Religious Rights and Practices: Offices of all religious communities should be open to both sexes and equality should be granted women to participate in the function of cults. Emigration, Immigration etc.: The studies should not be limited to minorities as majorities in certain cases are also subject to injustice due to discriminatory legislation and habits. The I. A. W. further advised the Sub-Commission to add Education to their subjects to be studied and expressed the hope that the Sub-Commission would include Trust and Non-Self-Governing Territories in their studies. The development of the racial situation in the Union of South Africa has, as everybody knows been subject to special studies by the U. N. As one of the non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the U. N. and actively engaged in activities designed to eradicate prejudice and discrimination the I. A. W. was informed in March 1954 by the U. N. Commission on The Racial Situation in the said Union that the Commission would be glad to receive any information which might assist in the performance of its task, and especially any suggestions relating to measure compatible with the provisions of the U. N. Charter, which might be recommended with a view to "alleviating the situation" and "promoting a peaceful settlement". Having no affiliation in the Union of South Africa to furnish us with information we could not send comments on the situation but we recommended the U. N. as soon as possible to convene the contemplated Conference on eradication of discrimination as a measure towards alleviation of the situation. To prepare for this prospective Conference we asked our affiliations to furnish us with information on discrimination in their country as to sex and race and two inquiries brought in a unusual 16 number of detailed replies which gave the facts and the work our societies are doing to combat both. The replies were of immense use to us when we received call to the Conference and were invited to furnish the organizers with a 2000 word statement on legal, educational, social action -- and other techniques which our affiliates have found to be particularly effective, or which have proved ineffective, to be included in a working paper for the Conference. The Conference took place in Geneva in March 1955, and a brief report of the Conference was written for the May number of the International Women's News, by Mrs. Choisy, the I. A. W. accredited representative to the European section of the U. N. Social Welfare Services In 1953 the U. N. Division of Social Welfare informed us that it was preparing for publication in 1954 "a survey of national and international measures taken to improve social conditions throughout the world". This, it was considered would enable countries to benefit from each other's experiences in raising standards of living. NGO's and thus also the I. A. W. were invited to so-operate by submitting information for this survey. The invitation was forwarded to our affiliations (circular no. 18/1953) with a request to inform us of particular programmes of social developments in their country since 1945, and within our field of interest only, i.e. the status and opportunities of women. Reports were received from 7 countries (Ceylon, Denmark, Great Britain, Jamaica, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland), which was not a big number but Mrs. Julia Henderson, Director of the Division of Social Welfare, when acknowledging receipt of the reports told us that they contained information of value for the survey and which she would otherwise not have been able to include. Next year the same U. N. Division was compiling information for a survey on "social welfare services rendered to migrants by NGO's to be submitted to the Tenth Session of the Social Commission early in 1955. Migration is not on the programme of the Naples Congress we passed on the questionnaire to our affiliations in four countries (Australia, Germany, Israel, Pakistan) who we understood have social welfare services to migrants on their programme and the reports received were forwarded to the U. N. Division. Slavery and other forms of Servitude In June 1953, ECOSOC invited competent NGO's collect and transmit to U. N. information on some given problems on this 2 17 subject. Having recently lost Mrs. Jeanne Vialle, who by the way was the only woman member on the U.N. Expert Commission on Slavery, and not having succeeded in finding a neutral expert on slavery problems to take the functions or Mrs. Vialle we were unable to submit information and referred to the resolution on Slavery adopted by the Naples' Congress, addressed to the U.N. The U.N. is working on a new Convention on Slavery and as this subject is on the programme of the I.A.W. we hope to be able to continue the co-operation with U.N. by the experts assistance of our African members. Atom and Hydrogen Bombs The reports on the destructive effects of the experiments with these weapons and the lack of international control of nuclear energy which deeply worry all mankind have naturally made several of our societies urge us strongly to join in pressing the responsible bodies to come to some settlement. The Board of the I.A.W. assembled in June 1954, transmitted a resolution to the U.N. Economic and Social Council which replied that it would be dealt with according to the procedure established for communication to the Disarmament Commission. In the resolution we requested the Great Powers in accepting control of this energy to testify that humanity is conscious of its moral responsibility in relation to this severe problem and that it is determined to control the destructive effects of the scientific knowledge of to-day. Women's participation in International Civil Service The Commission on the Status of Women adopted at its eighth session a resolution in which it inter alia recommended to NGO's that they continue to emphasize the importance of expanding opportunities for women in public service at the national level as a means of encouraging their participation in international civil service. The I.A.W. was requested to take steps in order to implement the wish expressed by the Commission. However, this important part of our work can oly be done by our National societies and as a first step an appeal to them was published in the International Women's News (Nov. 1954) which is distributed to all our affiliations. Liberation of International Trade The I.A.W. fears that the post war world economic policy tending towards freedom of exchange will become a determining factor against the achievement of equality of remuneration between men and women workers. The lower remuneration paid for women's work is one of the contributing factors determining lower 18 prices in countries in which this exists and such countries are consequently favoured thereby in the world economic competition to the detriment of countries applying equality of remuneration. This might tempt the latter to endeavour to equalize their prices with those of the former countries by trying to lower women's remuneration. The above harmful argument in the hands of opponents of the principle of equal pay for equal work was drawn to the attention of the Commission on the Status of Women and the International Labour Office in March, 1955, in a resolution and the I.A.W. pressed the two bodies to address an urgent appeal to Governments asking them to ratify immediately the Convention on Equal Remuneration and to implement it. UNICEF A few words regarding our relations with UNICEF might particularly interest our members who in their country devote much time and energy to projects designed to improved the health of children. The I.A.W. fully sympathizes with this fine piece of work being done under the auspices of the United Nations, but having its hands more than full with its constitutional objects it is simply compelled to limit its connection with UNICEF to a moral support. However, the Board has arranged with one of the I.A.W. consultants in New York to send UNICEF papers direct to our affiliations who want to be kept informed of the activities of this agency. Vote of thanks to Consultants The I.A.W. has a strong team of five representatives who generously give their time to cover the meetings at the U.N. headquarters in New York, and in many other ways are doing invaluable work for the I.A.W. in U.S.A. It was with great regret that, at its meeting in February 1955, the Board accepted the resignation of Mrs. Charlotte Mahon who since the system of Consultative Status was inaugurated about 8 years ago has served as the I.A.W. Chief Consultant. Miss Anne Guthrie, our Consultant for several years readily consented to replace Mrs. Mahon and as Chief Consultant is now doing this field of work in co-operation with Miss Anna Lord Strauss, Mrs. Elisabeth Hitchcock, Mrs. Alvin E. Dodd and Mrs. Grant Brown. Several U.N. meetings take place in Geneva and are covered by Mme Choisy, President of our Swiss affiliation and Miss Marie Ginsberg when necessary, assisted by members of our affiliation. In conclusion the Board and Head Quarters ask our members to join us in expressing deep gratitude to all representatives, 2* 19 including Mme Andrée Lehmann our keen and untiring permanent representative at UNESCO, the members of her organization who assist her, and also the members of our affiliation in Brazil who during the period under review at various regional U. N. and UNESCO meetings have attended as our representatives. Miscellaneous Communications and Activities From time to time affiliations ask the I. A. W. to assist them in national questions. communications of this character other than those mentioned in the reports of the Standing Committees' Chairmen have been despatched during the period under review: — When the suffrage women of Egypt in March 1954 went on hunger strike for the vote we cabled the then President of Egypt urging him to bring his influence and authority to bear and secure enfranchisement for the women promised them for years. At the request of the Arab Women Alliance of Jordan we have in Nov. 1954 sent petitions to the Prime Minister and Parliament of Jordan urging for the recognition of women as full citizens in practising their political rights and responsibilities, and to ensure for them seats in the Parliament and Municipal Councils. Our Haitian affiliate had applied to UNESCO for a French speaking expert to come to Haiti to help it in its campaign for preparing women for their first participation in election (Jan. 1955), and to provide audio-visual material for this campaign. The I. A. W. was asked to support this application, which it was not only too glad to do. However, UNESCO replied that its budget did not allow it to send the expert, only the audio-visual material. At the request of African members the I. A. W. addressed in Aug. 1954 a number of Missionary Societies. Appreciation was expressed on the work and influence of missions in education but having experienced that in certain countries women and girls had not the same opportunity to benefit from this as men and boys we begged them to keep in mind the necessity of taking care also of women's and girl's education. Our Italian affiliation asked us in March 1955 to support an application from its and the I. A. W.'s Board member, Miss Corcos, to the United Nations for a six weeks internship in the Student Interne Programme at the U. N. Head Quarters in New York, and so we did. Miss Corcos' application was approved and we feel convinced that her internship will be beneficial to both our organization and to the U. N. In June 1955, a branch of our German affiliate sent us an invitation for a Danish member to participate in their annual "European" 20 Border Districts" meeting. A member of the Danish affiliation was selected. In her report on the meeting which was attended by women from 5—6 other neighbouring countries she commented most favourably on the programme and entire arrangements, and we pass on the idea to our members as a means to promote international understanding through their organizations. Under this heading of Miscellaneous Activities comes also the scheme for raising funds for the I. A. W. which at the same time reflected a concern for international understanding and co-operation between the Danish affiliation and its sister organizations in other countries, with Head Quarters as the intermediary. Our affiliations will recall that shortly after New Year, 1955, we beseeched them to each send us a gift that was characteristic of their country and at the purchasing value of say, 1 £ Sterling. The gifts received would be forwarded, one to each of the branches of the Danish affiliation who would utilize it as a prize in the lottery guaranteeing an amount of between double and treble the purchasing value of the gift. The scheme became a success above all expectations. About half of our societies and also Board Members and Consultants sent us gift parcels many of which contained several gifts and all accompanied by a short description or explanation of pattern, symbol etc. Gifts were forwarded to 35 Danish branches who had replied to our parallel beseech to them, and the I. A. W. cashed about 100 £ Sterling on the gifts. We still have a number of gifts in store which the heavy work in connection with the Congress preparations prevent us from realising till after the Congress. Arising from the Naples' Congress Report In a motion passed by the Congress a representative of the International Council of Women asked the I. A. W. to consider the opportunity of setting up a joint Committee to study fusion of both the organizations. The suggestion was thoroughly studied by an I. A. W. ad hoc Committee and by the Board assembled in the spring of 1953. After having weighed pros and cons the Board came to the conclusion that in the rapid development of the world to-day the woman's cause needed more than ever each organization's established consultative relationship with the U.N. and fusion would be tantamount to withdrawal of one of these. Each organization has its own object, but when our points of view coincide these are strenghtened by being stated by two organizations. On the other hand the Board feels that national co-operation in countries where both organizations have affiliations would be profitable and it wishes to encourage increased co-operation when and where it is considered possible. 21 The motion as to the possibility of arranging an Arab-Israel Round Table meeting in order to see whether I. A. W. women could make a constructive contribution to the difficult problem of Arab Refugees from Palestine produced no result. The President and the Chairman of the Peace and Human Relations Committee tried their best. As a first step members from both sides were invited to take part in an informal discussion but members from only one of the sides were able to accept the invitation. Liaison Committee of Women's International Organizations Thirteen International Women's Organizations are now enlisted in the Liaison Committee which, as eight of its constituent members, has consultative status with ECOSOC, whereas three are on the register. Only when the Committee receives unanimous support does it submit resolutions and statements to ECOSOC. The I. A. W. has been represented at the monthly meetings of the Committee in London by its Board Members resident there. Minutes are punctually forwarded to Head Quarters and it is without doubt that these monthly meetings give inspiration to the members and definitely to the HQ of the I. A. W. The meetings of the New York group are attended by our U. N. consultants and reports on meetings give evidence of fruitful informal co-operation with the Commission on the Status of Women and other U. N. bodies. Headquarters is unable to report on the work of the three more groups in Geneva, Paris and Australia which seem less active than London and New York. Organization of I. A. W. Standing Committees At the Amsterdam Congress in 1949 it was decided that affiliates appointed a member for each of the Standing Committees and that relevant circular letters and questionnaires from the Chairman should be addressed to such members. However, affiliates often forget to notify the I. A. W. Secretariat of changes in names and addresses of their committee members for which reason the Board considered it more practical for all parts that communications from Committee Chairmen were addressed to the Presidents of the affiliated societies, attention the correspondent to the committee in question. This rule has been practised for about a year and the Board would be interested to hear how this arrangement works with the affiliations. Secretariat Since the outbreak of the last world war, the I. A. W. has lived from hand to mouth. It has no budget for running a secretariat, 22 it owns no office equipment. In Copenhagen as was the case when H. Q. was in Stockholm, the President and the Secretary have supplied the most necessary furniture, typewriters, and duplicators, etc., on a free basis. In Stockholm, as was the case in London since the war, the President and/or the Secretary have given free accommodation to the Secretariat in her home. Accommodation When Marie Graff took over the work of the secretary after the Congress in Naples, the office was established in her little flat. However, this arrangement of having her papers and undone work around her day and night became too much of a mental burden to her in the long run and the Board allocated a monthly amount of £ 5 for accommodation elsewhere. In June 1954, we succeeded in getting a small one-room office in the Women's Building in Copenhagen, but unfortunately for the summer months only. From there the Secretariat was moved to a room with a private family who about two months before the Congress needed the room for their own purposes and to the benefit of the work, but certainly not to the convenience of the President, the Secretariat was moved to her home for the last hectic weeks of work. Staff The three years under review have been very busy years for the Secretary to whom the normal working day and week have been the exception rather than the rule due to the expansion of the I. A. W. family and the constantly increasing activities of the I. A. W. That both she and the President were quite newcomers in the I. A. W. and not having the Hon. Treasurer and the Corresponding Secretary or any other members of the Board in the town or country to draw on for verbal advice and voluntary help made her work more strenuous than it would otherwise have been and really ought to have been. However, a progress in the organization has been made. In view of the extra work entailed in preparing for the Jubilee Congress the Board decided in October, 1954, to give the Secretary a full time office assistant. Padmini Casinader of Ceylon was chosen for this position. Yet they could not have coped with the work if the President had not since the beginning of her term of office given practically all her leisure hours and from January 1955 all her time to the secretariat work. Conclusion "There is so much to be done and we are so few to do the work", the Hon. President, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, said on a certain 23 occasion. It is true that the Chairmen of our Standing committees and Office Bearers have contributed much to the achievements during the three years, but the writer of this report has the strong feeling that having lived from hand to mouth for ten years re-establishing the I. A. W. and widening its activities it is now time for the Congress and the new Board to seriously consider the possibility of setting up a proper Head Quarters under the responsibility of an international and trained Organizing Secretary, and how to finance the running of the H. Q. However much devoted one would be to the I. A. W. and the woman's cause, the duties under the ruling conditions outlined above are too heavy for any President and her secretariat. There has definitely been a change of climate and public opinion in favour of women's equal rights since the war. The I. A. W. being the only international organization specializing in the equal rights for women, as women, has a great responsibility in utilizing this milder climate. The I. A. W. is also being recognized by more and more women's organizations and newly founded groups of women's movements in ex-European countries as the international organization with which they want to join forces towards obtaining equal rights by legislation and application of the newly acquired equal rights of women with men. The I. A. W. is also recognized by international governmental and other bodies for its educational projects for women in accordance with the objectives of the I. A. W., and it has succeeded in obtaining economical support of such projects but it should also be pointed out to our members that the secretarial work increases greatly with the carrying out of subsidized projects organized wholly or partly by H. Q.s. At the turn of its first half century the I. A. W. and its national societies can look back upon fifty industrious years. Much has been achieved but with the awakening of the people and thus also the women of vast economically less developed areas our goal is still far ahead and we need the solidarity and support—not only moral but certainly also financial support—from all our member societies old and young in the busy years to come. ESTER GRAFF President 24 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS It is a great pity that the support given to the International Alliance of Women's monthly paper is so uneven as between the different societies of the I. A. W. It is partly, of course, a matter of language, and one would expect that the United Kingdom would have many more subscribers than some other countries. But where a real effort has been made by the affiliated society to find new members, as in Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland the response has been excellent. The paper gives news of the women's movements all over the world and much of its contents can be found no matter where else brought together. The cost of the French matter is heavy yet only half a dozen subscribers are in France, and there are very few readers in the countries whose second language is French. It is therefore a question how long the I. A. W. should be asked to carry this loss. We do beg our French speaking societies to make a real effort to get us new members. Both editors give their services free and we have to depend on news from our societies and from individuals as we cannot afford to pay for articles. We have cut our expenses to the minimum possible. The paper is the one constant link between the different societies and Headquarters and between the individual members from different countries from one triennial Congress to another. Without it, it would be difficult to keep a corporate sense alive, since it reaches many more people than can be reached by Headquarters' letters. It also serves as a valuable source of material for the women's papers in all countries. We therefore do beg each society and each reader to enrol more members at £ 1.0.0. per year and so enable us to continue the paper without too great a drain on Alliance funds. M. I. Corbett Ashby N. Spiller Editors of the "I. W. N." 25 Treasurer's Report I beg to submit herewith the accounts for the three years' period 1952-1954. The Sixteenth Congress in Naples 1952 was financed partly by an amount of £ 267.9.9. transferred from the I. A. W.'s property in U. S. A., partly by donations for the purpose and by congress fee paid by delegates. The net result of the Congress, £ 95.11.8., could be transferred to the ordinary accounts of 1952 to be used for the printing of the Congress report in 1953. The Congress in Naples decided to double the affiliation fee from £ 5 to £ 10 minimum. A great deal of energy has been devoted to the collecting of fees from individual members and subscribers as well as from affiliations. The results - as shown by the figures - are not too good. There is still a reason to urge upon our member affiliations to show in practice the interest they take in our common international work as carried on by the International Alliance of Women. In England two former friends have remembered the I. A. W in their wills, considerable legacies were left to us in 1953 and 1954. We owe great thanks to these late donors as well as to other kind friends, who have by their gifts enabled the Alliance to continue its work for the rights of women. The expenses of the I. A. W. are extremely low, thanks to the modest scale on which the secretariat is working, and thanks to all the collaborators who are always paying their own expenses. The stipulated fees of affiliations and members are far from covering the general expenses, even if they were really paid in due time by everyone. So our warmest appeal goes out to all our friends for their kindest financial support, thus enabling the Alliance to fulfil its important task also in the future. Oslo, Norway, April 1955. Eva Kolstad. Honorary Treasurer. Total Statements of Receipts and Expenditure 1952-1954 Year Year Year Receipts: -- | 1952 | 1953 | 1954 | Affiliation Fees . . . . . . . £ 139.16. 1 £ 213. 1.11 £ 302.10.11 Individual Member Fees " 251.14. 4 " 429. 0. 5 " 407.12. 8 I. W. N. Subscriptions . . " 81.13. 9 "92. 7. 0 " 117.15. 0 Donations . . . . . . . . . . . . " 311. 9. 3 " 180. 2.11 " 141.14. 4 Legacies . . . . . . . . . . . . . " - " 1695. 0. 0 " 125. 0. 0. Sundries . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 36. 5. 7 " 16.18. 9 " 19. 0 Bank Interest . . . . . . . . . " 8.16. 1 " 7.18. 6 " 18. 6. 8 Congress Pledges . . . . . . " 102. 5. 5 " - " - Net Result of XVI Congress . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 95.11. 8 " - " - Total Receipts "1027.12 2 " 2634.9. 6 "1113.18. 7 Expenditure: Secretariat £ 682.16. £ 501.0. 8 £ 616.93 2 Postage, Telephone, Telegrams " 1113. 18. 11 " 93. 10. 2 " 82. 6. 5 Office Supplies " 64. 13. 3 " 4. 2. 8 " 10. 30. 9 Printing, Stationery ' 63. 1. 3 " 46. 6. 7 " 37. 6. 4 I.W.N. Printing, Postage, etc. " 459. 8. 9 " 460. 2. 3 " 424. 13. 6 Travelling " 150. 4. 11 " 5. 3. 3 " 24. 7. 2 Board & Int. Committee Meetings " 21. 7. 7 " 14. 7. 5 " 53. 0. 5 Taxes & Bank Charges & Agio " 30. 10. 9 "3. 17. 3 " Subscriptions, Liaison Committee, N. G. O. Meetings, etc. " " 14. 1. 7 " 13.19. 2 For Illiteracy, Italy "53.13. 1 " XVI Congress Report " "167.17. 4 " Preparations XVII Congress 1955 " " "5.13. 8 Miscellaneous " 22. 7. 9 " 3.13. 8 " 3. 4.10 Total Expenditure "1661.19. 9 "1314. 2.10 "1271. 4. 5 Balance Working Capital January 1st 1952 £2003.11.10 Receipts 1952 £1027.12. 2 1953 £ 2634. 9. 6 1954 £ 1113.18. 7 "4776. 0. 3 Expenditure 1952 £1661.19. 9 1953 "1314. 2.10 1954 "1271. 4. 5 £4247. 7. 1 Working Capital December 31st 1954 In England £ 1451.10. 8 In Denmark D. Kr. 12.268.30 " 633.14. 1 In U.. S. A. &1.251.65 " 447. 0. 4 £2532. 5. 1 £6779.12. 1 £ 6779.12. 1 Oslo, Norway, April 1955. Copenhagen, Denmark, May 1955. Eva Kolstad, Hon. Treasurer. ADMISSIONS Report of the Committee Since the Congress at Naples, in 1952, the Admission Committee has had before it applications for affiliation from the following Societies: -- 1. Carribean Women's Alliance (Barbados). 2. Israel Federation of W. I. Z. O. 3. Jordan Arab Women's Alliance. 4. Palestine Women's Association of Lebanon. 5. Suffragette Fellowship (Great Britain). 6. Union Bent-el-Nil (Egypt). 7. Union Feminine Nationale des Femmes Chefs d'Enterprises (Frances). 8. Women's Improvement Society (West Nigeria). 9. Women's Voluntary Services of Nepal. The Constitution of the Societies were submitted to the Committee and found to be in accordance with the qualifications for membership laid down in the I. A. W. Constitutions. In the case of Egypt, France, Great Britain and Israel the views of the existing Affiliations had been taken, and as no formal objections had been raised, all none Societies were admitted to provisional affiliation. The Congress ratified their admission and gave the new members of the I. A. W. family a hearty welcome. (See also Report on the Work of the Board and Head Quarters, sub-heading "New Affiliations"). Ester Graff. EQUAL CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS Report of the Committee The results of the work of this Committee which has been systematic, continuous and persevering since its foundation, have appeared clearly in the course of these last three years. All the resolutions intended for the UN, presented by this Committee to the Congress of Naples of 1952 and adopted by it, have been mimeographed and officially distributed at different times to the competent Commissions of the UN in 1952 and 1953. Several of them have been considered: 28 In 1954, the UN adopted and opened to ratification the Convention on the Political Rights of Women, by which men and women are entitled to the same electoral and eligibility rights and the same rights of access to all public posts and offices. This Convention came into force on 7th July, 1954. But the more important success, (although only partial) gained by the Alliance, thanks to be work of this Committee, relates to the application of Art. 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Since the adoption of the Declaration by the General Assembly in 1948 and the task assigned to the Commission on Human Rights of drafting the Covenant of Application of this Declaration, our Alliance alone of the women's organizations, has addressed resolutions each year, to ECOSOC as well as to the Commission on the Status of Women and the Commission on Human Rights requesting that Art. 16 of the Declaration be included in the Covenant. We recall that this Art. 16 specifically states that: "men and women are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution" and that in the course of the first years devoted to the drafting of the Covenant, the Commission on Human Rights did not consider including this article in the Covenant. On March 19th, 1953, the 7th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women at last responded to our appeal and requested the Economic and Social Council to adopt a resolution dealing with the inclusion of Art. 16 of the Declaration in the Covenant, and this resolution was transmitted by the Secretary General of the UN to the Commission on Human Rights on April 7th, 1953. In the course of its 9th Session of 1953 the Commission on Human Rights adopted an Art. 22 of the draft Covenant, whose paragraph 4 reads: "the legislation of States parties to the present Covenant should be directed towards the equality of rights and responsibilities of spouses, as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution". Our Committee felt that the inclusion of Art. 16 in the Covenant which it had requested, constituted, owing to the wording of Art 22, which dealt with it, only very partial progress, and that indeed it presented very real dangers. In fact the form: "the legislation of States should be directed towards..." does not put any obligation on States to make their legislation harmonise with Art. 16 of the Declaration which they had voted, and allows them to promise this equality only in an uncertain and perhaps far distant future. On the 10th February, 1954, the Alliance addressed a resolution of our Committee which had been mimeographed and officially 29 distributed under the reference: 10 March E/CN.6/NGO/19 to ECOSOC, the Commission on Human Rights and the Commission on the Status of Women. In this document the Alliance requested the Commission on the Status of Women to send in a formal protest to the Economic and Social Council and the Commission of Human Rights, against the wording of Art. 22 paragraph 4, of the draft Covenant, which is opposed to the Declaration, underlining that if the present wording of this Art. 22 were preserved the equality of rights of spouses, proclaimed by Art. 16 of the Declaration would not be put into effect and that this Art. 22 did not make a just application of the Declaration, depriving a large proportion of humanity, namely the married women, of the rights which had been formally recognized by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Commission of the Status of Women in the course of its 8th Session in 1954 gave entire satisfaction to our resolution: it voted a recommendation to the Economic and Social Council to adopt the following resolution: Considering that paragraph 4 of Art. 22 of the draft Covenant relating to civil and political rights does not provide for the equality of rights of spouses and limits itself to stating that the legislation of States should be directed towards equality of rights; Persuaded that this interpretation is not in accord with the principle stated in paragraph 1 of Art. 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, according to which spouses "have equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution"; Decides to replace the first sentence of paragraph 4 Art. 22 of the draft Covenant relating to equal civil and political rights and responsibilities by the following: "Men and women have equal rights and responsibilities as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution". ECOSOC transmitted this resolution to the 3rd Commission of the 9th General Assembly of the United Nations, which at its discussion on the draft Covenant did not pass it. The Committee on Equal Civil and Political Rights of the Alliance presented to the Board which met in Paris February 5th to 7th. 1955, a new resolution which the Board passed, addressed to the Commission on the Status of Women of the UN urging them to renew with still more firmness and precision if possible, the resolution of their last session and to transmit it not only to ECOSOC, but also to the Commission on Human Rights. 30 Thus our Committee has led the Alliance in the uphill task of insisting that the equality of rights of spouses should become an irrefutable principle and be put into effect with the least possible delay. The first results obtained are an encouragement and at the same time a warning not to relax our efforts. Another step forward in the same direction was the resolution adopted on March 20th, 1953, by the Commission on the Status of Women, requesting ECOSOC to recommend to Governments: A. To take all measures in their power to insure in family affairs equality of rights and duties of the husband and wife; B. To take all measures in their power to assure to the wife complete legal rights; the right to work outside the home, as well as the right to acquire, to administer, to enjoy and to dispose on property on equal terms with her husband. The other main tasks accomplished by the Committee in the course of the last three years are as follows: In the last quarter of 1952, we replied to an inquiry by the UN on women employed in public services and holding public offices. Our reply was used in the report on this question intended for the Commission on the Status of Women. On May 19th, 1954, the Chairman of this Committee requested its members to reply to the following question from the Secretary-General of the UN: "What suggestions can the Alliance make as to methods to insure and make effective the political equality of women in the countries of its affiliated associations." At the same time she emphasised the importance of urging their Governments to ratify the Convention on Political Rights, recalling that this Convention envisaged not only the right to vote and eligibility, but also access to all public work and offices, and that although in a number of countries political equality was reached women still had not access to all public offices on the same terms as men. On November 30th, 1954, I addressed to the members of this Committee a circular to inform them of a resolution of the 8th Session 1954 of the Commission on the Status of Women, that the UN had requested us to act on. This resolution asked non-governmental organizations to continue to encourage the development of the civic education of women, and indicated various methods of doing so. My circular was published in English and French in the "International Women's News". On January 13th, 1955, I informed the members of this Committee that the Alliance intended to participate in the Conference of NGO's at Geneva (April 1955) on the study of methods to adopt to combat discriminatory measures, and to present a report. 31 I asked for a reply to the questionnaire which I sent them as to the methods which they thought should be used in their countries to combat sex discrimination. I sent all the replies received to UN. An acknowledgement of receipt was sent to the Alliance with the assurance that our replies would appear in the report to be distributed at the Geneva Conference. On April 8th, 1955, the Chairman of this Committee addressed to its members in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Japan, Israel, Italy, United Kingdom, Australia, Greece and Pakistan, the countries in which equal rights of spouses are almost realized, a communication asking them to urge their Governments to address a request for the modification of Art. 22 of the Covenant insuring its conformity with Art. 16 of the Declaration, to the Commission on Human Rights of the UN. If this report shows substantial results gained and serious work accomplished, it nevertheless does not give entire satisfaction. The question of the equal rights of spouses and of a better matrimonial system to ensure it, which we had set ourselves to study, did not reach a solution in the course of this period, because not enough replies were received by the Chairman. Finally we cannot too urgently impress upon our colleagues the necessity of studying in the years to come this question, which is basic to the true emancipation of women in most countries. We have no doubt that their devotion to this cause will be maintained. Andrée Lehmann EQUAL ECONOMIC RIGHTS Report of the Committee The Economic Rights Committee has during the past three years based its work on the four resolutions adopted at the Naples Congress in 1952. Our National societies have co-operated fairly well in answering questionnaires which I have sent out from time to time. I hope that the Societies who have not replied the questionnaire sent out last regarding the work done on the subject matter of each resolution will repair their omission and give their replies to me. Resolution I: The Ratification and Implementation of the Convention on Equal Remuneration passed by ILO in 1951. Nine countries have so far ratified the Convention - Austria, Belgium, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, France, Mexico, the Philippines 32 Inauguration of the Congress. Above: Arrival of H. E. Sir Oliver Goonetilleke, the Governor General. Below: Delegates listening to speeches of welcome. Philippines, Poland, Yugoslavia, and of these only two are members of the International Alliance of Women, France and the Philippines. From reports available in UN documents it is hoped that the Governments of Brazil, Italy and the Netherlands will ratify the Convention in the near future. In the U.K. the Government, having accepted the principle of Equal Pay, has begun to give effect to it, and so the indirect effects of this acceptance will be seen to extend to other occupations, notably the teaching profession. In the Civil Service Equal Pay is being implemented, local Government services have recognised the principle, thus encouraging industrialists and other employers to follow suit. In some countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Germany, labour conditions are settled by collective bargaining and Government is loath to interfere with the freedom of such bargaining, but it is felt in these cases where Trade Unions and employees are in favour of Equal Remuneration pressure must be put on employers groups. The less industrially developed countries such as Ceylon require a different orientation to this problem. Equal Pay exists in all the higher branches of employment. In manual labour the difference in the minimum wage is based on the variability of output between men and women workers but whether this is a fact based on data or whether it is a rationalisation of an established state of affairs is a moot point. It is proven, however, that women earn more than men in time and piece rates, e.g. tea plucking and rubber tapping. The traditional division of labour imposes less hardship on the woman worker than would be generally supposed as she is assigned the lighter tasks of industry. In any case the question of wages is in the hands of wages Boards in several categories of employment, composed of representatives of the employers, employees and Government nominees. Our Societies must press for the inclusion of women in these Boards following the example of our Ceylon affiliate who has secured the nomination of a woman on the Match Industry Wages Board. Internationally there is an awakening to the dangers of unequal pay. As pointed out by our French affiliate (see statement 3 made by the I.A.W. to the Status of Women Commission and the ILO) there is grave disquiet in countries which have Equal Pay or are working towards it that the lower costs of production in countries which exploit the cheap labour of lower paid women workers will be detrimental to them, especially where there is unemployment. It is necessary for our organizations to see the awareness of this danger and any activity arising from it should be channeled towards the implementation of Equal Pay and a consequent rise in the costs 3 33 of production rather than that the costs of production should be lowered for the sake of world competition by discrimination against women. Equal pay for equal work can only become a reality when women are as equally qualified as men for any available job. It is established that 70% or more of gainfully employed women are concentrated in a few occupational groups and it is a debatable point as to whether the women get less pay than men because they are women or whether the job analysis rates these occupations at that level of wages. It is necessary to strive hard to induce girls and women to qualify themselves by taking a professional diploma in whatever field of employment they wish to enter. Therefore closely allied to this subject is that contained in Resolution II: Equality of opportunity in vocational training and guidance and training for promotion. Our questionnaire on this resolution elicited several interesting and illuminating points. Vocational guidance to all girls in the senior forms of school should be an important part of the school curriculum. It is imperative that women's organizations and/or other bodies such as Women's Bureaux, should study the supply and demand of labour in various fields and direct youth into either fresh fields of employment or into those where underemployment exists. For instance in France there is much unemployment in the milliners' trades but still more girls are being pushed into training for this work; the percentage of unemployment has reached such alarming proportions that women members in Parliament have raised a question on this matter. Our Dutch Society organized afternoon gatherings of girls in the top forms of schools to give guidance in vocational training and have published a booklet on the requirements and various possibilities of various professions. They issue a copy of the booklet free to every woman at the age of twenty three. A startling fact thrown up by our questionnaire is that the majority of women are prepared to accept lower paid jobs without much hope or desire of rising to the top of their profession. Statistics have shown that although in recent years women have invaded numerous fields of employment there are very few who rise to the top grade posts, and that this may also be due to lack of facilities for training for promotion. It is therefore vital that women should be convinced of the importance of training for promotion and that it should be made possible for them, without loss of employment benefits, to undertake these courses. It is here that women's organizations must work to see that the educational authorities and/or employers provide such training courses for women. 34 Parallel with training courses for promotion it has been found now that it is necessary to provide course for the training or retraining of the older worker who, for reasons of family responsibilities has never worked or has stopped work outside the home. Resolution III: Part-Time Work At the request of ECOSOC the Economic Rights Committee compiled a report on the use of Part-Time job schedules using replies obtained from a questionnaire sent to member societies. Before Part-Time work can be incorporated in the economy of the country it must be recognized as a category of work offered or taken regularly outside the home but for substantially less than the scheduled hours of full time work and paid for at regular rates. The demand for Part-Time work does exist in most countries and is a constantly rising one, especially in those industrially advanced countries where women and girls are achieving equality of vocational and employment opportunity. It is also becoming more important with the increase in social welfare services, rehabilitation and longevity, and we find workers with family responsibilities, the physically handicapped and the older worker are creating a demand for Part-Time job schedules. Such schedules as now exist are used as in Great Britain to relieve labour shortages, or as in Italy and the Philippines to solve the unemployment problem; our French society argues the contrary and states that where there is unemployment Part-Time work would tend to be abolished, or, being unorganized would tend to be paid for at lower rates. The industrially less developed countries also hold that the great reserves of manpower and consequent underemployment as in Ceylon, preclude the use of Part-Time job schedules, and that such work exists only in seasonal agricultural work. Most countries have no data on the demand, supply and possibilities of Part-Time work and we strongly feel that this and all other problems which relate to the employment of women have to be solved by academic as well as by practical means. It is for this reason that we feel that Resolution IV: the Establishment of Women's Bureaux fulfils a vital need in our employment services. In the more industrially developed countries such as Great Britain and Sweden where already exist trade unions and other organizations to look after the welfare of workers, Women's Bureaux would be redundant. It is an interesting point that the very much industrially advanced countries such as the U.S.A. and the very little industrially developed countries of the East both desire the establishment of Women's Bureaux, although the pattern of such Bureaux tends to be different. Australia, Ceylon and Japan wish the Bureaux to be part of the Government machinery, while countries such as Denmark 3* 35 would prefer them to be run by voluntary bodies. Whichever kind of Bureau is needed we also require expert help in the setting up and we are very fortunate indeed in being able to secure the presence at our Congress of Miss Frieda Miller, one time head of the Women's Bureau in Washington. Miss Miller has most graciously put herself at the disposal of the delegates in an advisory capacity and will be available for consultation if an appointment is made. She has also been able to obtain for us a number of publications and certain studies of the problems of Women in Employment for free distribution to Congress delegates or on loan. During the three years under review we have been able to use the information obtained from our societies regarding the problems of women in employment in the statement which we have made from time to time to UN and/or its specialized agencies, and copies of these are incorporated in reports which may be obtained from any UN library. 1. The use of Part-Time job schedules by men and women workers, particularly by women with responsibilities for family and children and the area where Part-Time work is of particular significance. (Document E/CN.6/213). 2.Methods which have been found useful in various countries in creating a favourable climate of public opinion on the need for Equal Pay for men and women. (Document E/CN.6/263). 3. Statement on Equal Pay and repercussions on international trade. 4. Statement of our consultant, Mrs. Mahon, to the Status of Women Commission on appreciating the recommendation for technical assistance to improve the condition and status of women. 5. A study of Technical Assistance from a receiving country -- Pakistan -- and a donor country -- Denmark. 6. Social action which our affiliates have found to be particularly effective or which have been proved ineffective in combating prejudice and discrimination based on sex. Much work still remains to be done and we hope that our national committees will continue to give that co-operation which they have so steadily given over the past years in collecting information on the problems which beset us. We hope also that those societies who have not been able to do so will perhaps be ready to remedy this over the next three years. I make an earnest appeal to all our societies to help make use of the new avenues of technical assistance so generously offered and thereby alleviate the hardships of women in employment. Laurel Casinader. 36 EQUAL EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS Report of the Committee In presenting this report to Congress, I must first express my appreciation of the work done by Mme. Andrée Lehmann, our permanent Representative at UNESCO. She has never spared herself, either in attendance at Conferences or visiting officials at UNESCO. More and more information is excepted from the I. A. W. on the subject of Education by UNESCO, and the Status of Women Commission. Mrs. Mahon, our Consultant in New York, draws our attention to the Resolution passed by ECOSOC E/2571 para 76, in which it invited inter alia the co-operation of Non-Governmental Organizations in relation to the Education of women in various countries. Consequently, although perhaps you have thought the questionnaire and letters sent out by our Committee have no particular reference to the work of your Society, yet all information on any aspect of Education in your country set either to me or the Editor of the "International Women's News" has been of use to the Committee. In November 1952, UNESCO called a meeting of NGOs at which the President and Mme. Lehmann represented the Alliance. Following that meeting, a questionnaire was circulated to all affiliates, asking them to inquire through their National UNESCO Commissions if their Government intended to ask for any Technical Assistance, if so, what type of Assistance was being applied for, and to remind their National UNESCO Commission not to forget women in their plans. Pakistan replied to this, and Mrs. Mahon, when submitting her statement from the Alliance at the 8th Session of the Status of Women Commission, made special mention of the need of Vocational schools and Training Centres for women which can be set up by the Technical Assistance Programme, so I would ask affiliates to bear this subject in mind and urge their Governments to ask for Technical Assistance, as the amount allocated from central funds will be increased in proportion, the more the countries ask. The I. A. W. was represented by Mme. Lehmann, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, Mrs. Bush, Mme. Bernard and Mrs. Holm at the next Conference of NGOs called by UNESCO in February 1954. Here the Conference divided into five working parties -- viz.: Fundamental Assistance, Technical Assistance, Technology and the Human Factor, the Right to Education and its implications, and Education for living in a World Community. Each Working Party was covered, and the Delegates learned of the immense field of 37 work covered by UNESCO and also the vast amount of information the NGOs have which is of use to UNESCO. In September 1954, Mme. Lehmann attended a Conference of NGOs where the subject for discussion was Education-Information. Mme. Lehmann recalled that at a previous Conference in October 1953, when discussing the same subject she had asked for "Equality of Education for Women." Mme. Lehmann pointed out that for a short time after the formation of UNESCO there had existed a section for Equality of Education for Women. That selection has now been suppressed and the question of Equality of Education distributed over the various UNESCO departments. As a result, no section is responsible for Women's Equal Rights to Education. After a long discussion, Mme. Lehmann proposed the following resolution: - "The NGOs whilst appreciating the activities and efforts of UNESCO to obtain equality of education for women, nevertheless with this question to have a definite place in the programme of UNESCO, with a view to progressively attaining this end." M. Acroni, who replied in the name of UNESCO, said the point of the Alliance is very important. It would be expressed to the General Conference at Montevideo in December 1954. I regret that UNESCO took no action. Each year an International Conference on Public Education is convened by UNESCO and The International Bureau of Education at Geneva. At the 15th Conference in 1952, recommendations were made to Governments on the Access of Women to Education. In January 1954, we were informed that a progress report on this subject was to be sent to the 17th Conference, and UNESCO were most anxious to obtain information from NGOs on the following two points: - 1. Had the NGOs themselves organized Study Courses or Seminars for Women? and 2. Had the affiliates to NGOs organized or would they be organizing any Courses? The Alliance was able to send details of the Danish Summer School in July-August 1954, and of the regional Conference in Ceylon in July, but with regard to other affiliates, only Greece, Iran and Japan answered questionnaire 6/1954. In April 1954, the Alliance was asked to collect information relevant to a study of Discrimination in the field of Education, which the U.N. Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination had decided to inaugurate. In view of the small response of the 38 previous letter, a brief questionnaire 12b/1955, with a space for extra details, was circulated. This brought forth a much better response, and was answered by Japan, Ceylon, Israel, Iran, France, Sweden, Italy, Egypt, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Norway and the Netherlands. This information was of much use, and the Alliance sent it to the Sub-Commission under the heading: - Political Discrimination, Discrimination due to Tradition and Discrimination of an Economic Character. Another section was also added on Discrimination in the teaching profession from information sent in by England and Denmark. In June 1954, the Board of the Alliance accepted the proposal made by Begum Waheed (Pakistan) that the Committee should study the methods now in use or which have been used in different countries to promote Adult Education. Questionnaire 26/1954 was circulated and 15 countries replied. Most of the affiliates had made a real effort to complete the questionnaire, although few gave details as to the educational methods used or any comment of any special type of work done and if it were successful. The results were correlated, but unfortunately not enough detail was given for the publication of a pamphlet. However, this subject is of such importance, especially in Africa and the Eastern Countries, that it will be a lively topic for discussion at Congress. Amy Bush. EQUAL MORAL STANDARD Report of the Committee The work of this Committee has covered the following amongst many other matters: - a) Letters to affiliates, asking for information on the work, pay and outlook of women police; also on the ideas of affiliates as to means of forwarding abolition of tolerated brothels, and reminding them that such abolition involves prevention of prostitution, help for its victims, concern for right education. Reports received from France, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Egypt, and verbally from interviews in Copenhagen with the Danish Women Police were carefully studied. b) Correspondence with appropriate persons at the United Nations on female circumcision (resolution); with Mrs. Charlotte Mahon on Maintenance and Affiliation, and the position in regard to 39 conventions, bilateral and international, proposed or in action. Affiliates should note that a printed summary of the position up to date was distributed to members of the Committee at the Colombo Conference, and action to stir governments in the matter requested. Correspondence with M. le Président du Sénat de la République Italienne (prepared with Dr. Scelba) on the proposal to abolish tolerated brothels in Italy, and congratulating Senatrice Merlin on her new attempt in this direction. Correspondence with Son Excellence le Gouverneur Général, Brazzaville, French Equatorial Africa, and Son Excellence le Gouverneur Général, Leopoldville, Belgian Congo, on the matter of female circumcision; correspondence with the French Ministre de la France d'Outre-Mer on female circumcision, and on tolerated brothels (with the agreement and aid of the French affiliate); correspondence with Mrs. Ekpo, President Nigeria Women's Union, and Mrs. Ogunlesi, Action Group, Ibadan, Nigeria; correspondence with Mrs. Fozdar, Singapore, on the announced support of certain Singapore women for the re-opening of a red-light district in Singapore; these are some of the letters that have gone out on topics of importance. c) Articles in the International Women's News e.g. on the Gelsenkirchen tragedy, the disappearance in the tolerated brothels of French Algiers of five German girls, and on the Portuguese advance towards abolitionist conditions in their overseas territories, and on the Argentine re-opening of tolerated brothels, have been useful means of communicating with affiliates in preference to the more limited distribution to selected persons. d) Consideration of material from the United Nations papers, notably the three questionnaires which contain questions on Traffic in Women, that are sent every two years on Traffic; the newer Trusteeship questionnaire, and the questionnaire issued by the Ad Hoc Committee on Slavery, concerning forms of Prostitution of women and children which involve exercise of ownership over them. In addition, there is now a mass of material on the problem of Maintenance mentioned above, and a new proposed Convention on Slavery which definitely concerns the Equal Moral Standard Committee. Then too the Chairman must keep a heedful eye on the Commission of Human Rights, on certain Petitions involving prostitution which occasionally come in, and on the attitude of Government Delegates on such matters. e) Material which comes through Abolitionist sources; a report on conditions in the tolerated brothels of Tangiers is of grave significance; while it contains nothing new to those who are in touch, its facts warrant as much pressure as International Groups can exert. Another matter of concern is that local authority can and 40 does take steps to lower the age of consent, and decrease penalties against procurers. The Chairman feels very deeply that affiliates must take a wide view of their responsibilities on a high and equal moral standard; that it must be recognised that while agitation has its part to play, the true path of reform lies in right education in moral matters, and in right social training. Chave Collisson. PEACE AND HUMAN RELATIONS Report of the Committee The work of the Peace Committee during the three years from the Naples Congress has consisted mainly in carrying out the resolution which urged the affiliated societies to "take action to cause greater sympathy and understanding amongst all human beings, irrespective of their race or religion and to press their own governments to pass laws against all discriminations based on race, colour or creed and see that they are put into effect." In reply to a questionnaire many of our affiliated societies told of their work in assimilating newcomers to their country and in combating discrimination. These replies were printed in "International Women's News". Unfortunately the work of the Commission is much hampered because few of its members have suggestions to make or even reply to questionnaires. But it seems clear that practical work on the above lines interests our members and that those who wish to work along the more political lines or protest against the Atom and other Bombs or work for World Government do so through Peace Societies. This is reasonable since such societies become experts in the subject and can offer more help. From the reports sent in, it would seem that the best work done since Naples is the State-wide efforts of our Australian Society to help integrate newcomers into Australia while appreciating their cultural contribution; and the outstanding success of the Summer School in Denmark for which our society there took so heavy a responsibility. My special thanks are due to the Rev. Dr. Kiek of Australia and to Baroness Anna Mazziotti di Celso of Italy, for their unfailing help. M. I. Corbett Ashby. 41 REPORT of the REPRESENTATIVES OF I.A.W. at UNITED NATIONS Headquarters Article 71 of the Charter of the United Nations reads: "The Economic & Social Council may make suitable arrangements for consultation with non-governmental organisations which are concerned with matters within its competence. Such arrangements may be made with international organisations, and where appropriate, with national organisations after consultation with the Member of the UN concerned." "We, the peoples" are never before in history given an opportunity to make our influence felt, and to bring to UN the benefit of our knowledge and experience. Non-Governmental Organisations Section Today there are 279 organisations which have a relationship with ECOSOC. Of these ten are in "Category A" the great trade unions, manufacturers' associations, and the cooperative movement. The I. A. W. is among the 110 in "Category B" , a status granted to "those organisations which have special competence in only a few of the fields of activity covered by the Council". Both of these groups are considered to have "a significant contribution to make" and are in "full and continuous relationship" with the Council. The remainder are highly specialised, and are "on the Register". To facilitate cooperation between the Council the NGOs, the Council has designated members of its Secretariat to be responsible for the NGO Section. The Chief is Mr. Charles Hogan; his associate, Mr. Laszlo Hamori. They are responsible for contacts between UN and NGOs, and are a source of information on all matters that concern ECOSOC. NGO privileges While it is only the "Category A" organisations which may propose items for ECOSOC's agenda, both Categories may make oral statements during the sessions of the various Commissions of the Council. Written statements may be submitted for circulation to the Members of the UN. To keep Representatives informed, the Department of Public Information arranges weekly briefings, when members of the Secretariat or Delegates give a pre-view of meeting to be held, a summary of sessions just closed, or a presentation of matters of concern to the UN. 42 Current documents are available in the NGO Lounge, and new publications are on display. recent issues of NGO magazines are also available. tickets for all meetings may be secured at the NGO Lounge, which has become a meeting place for NGO Representatives. Status of Women Commission The Representatives have followed this Commission most closely. During the debate in the last three sessions oral statements were made on: Political Rights of Women Women in Private Law Equal pay for Equal Work Part Time Work Women in Technical Assistance Programs. The I. A. W. has also been represented through the Liasion committee of International Organisations which has "Category B" Status, and so a special Representative. Liaison Committee, New York Group This Group holds regular meetings to discuss issues of common interest, and at the time of the Status of Women Commission to decide on the best method of presenting the viewpoints of member organisations without undue repetition. During the session of the Status of Women Commission, the Liaison Committee entertains the members of the Commission. At the supper this year each organisation gave a brief statement of its aims and work, since many delegates are not familiar with all the different organisations. The Representative of the I. A. W. was able to announce the Golden Jubilee congress in Colombo and the plan for including a UN seminar as part of the agenda. It was a source of pride for the I. A. W. that Begum Anwar Ahmed, who is active in the All-Pakistan Women's Association was elected Vice-president of the status of Women commission or its IX Session. Requests for NGO Cooperation At the 1955 Session of the Status of Women Commission, delegates recognised the work of the NGOs and asked their help in the future. (1) The Commission invited the Secretary-General to obtain from NGOs information "on their methods, techniques, and activities directed towards the extension to women and exercise by them of political rights, particularly in areas where women do not yet vote or have recently been granted political rights". (2) It invited the Secretary-General to gain information from the NGOs 43 on methods they have found useful to secure application of the principle of Equal Pay for Equal Work. (3) It requested ECOSOC "to encourage NGOs to continue their efforts to create an informed public opinion in favor of the principle of Equal Pay". NGO Conferences These may be arranged by the Department of Public Information to discuss such subjects as the plight of refugees or give a general picture of the work of UN. The Conference on the Eradication of Prejudice and Discrimination was called by the Secretary-General following ECOSOC's appeal to NGOs to coordinate their endeavors for the promotion of human rights. Conference of Consultative NGOs This group has been considering the possibility of modifying Article 71, due to the fact that the General Assembly will consider whether or not there should be a Review of the Charter. The rapporteurs reported that they "recommended no change in Article 71 in the event of Charter revision, nor any other reference to NGOs' consultation in other sections of the UN Charter". NGO Committee for UNICEF To increase interest in UN work for the children of the world through UNICEF, the NGO Committee for UNICEF was formed. The I. A. W. Representative has been a member. It is hoped that I. A. W. affiliates will give support to the National Committees for UNICEF where they exist, and assist in their formation where they do not. The National Committees use their influence to insure that the Government continues contributing to UNICEF, wherever possible increasing the grant. I. A. W. affiliates in contributing countries can help UNICEF by giving publicity to what is done with the money. Those in countries receiving aid can make known what the help given by UNICEF means to their children. UN Interns For eight weeks each year there is a group of young people who spend the summer working and learning at UN as Interns. They are recommended by Governments or NGOs. Travel expenses are paid by governments, organisations, or individuals; expenses in New York by UN. The I. A. W. has had two interns: Miss Jeantine Hefting of Holland in 1951, and Miss Luciana Marzia Corcos of Italy this year. This is a valuable experience. Could not some able person be recommended each year by the I. A. W.? 44 Documents to Affiliates Representatives have access to documents with very useful material in the economic and social fields in regard to underdeveloped countries. They are willing to send selected documents to a designated person in each country. If any affiliate wishes to take advantage of this offer, they may write to the I. A. W. Headquarters or direct to the Representative in New York. Report and Replies The help which the I. A. W. gives to UN is often limited by the difficulty of receiving replies in time. If each affiliate of the I. A. W. would make a determined effort to get replies to I. A. W. H. Q. as quickly as possible it would be a real contribution. What is done in one country may become many times more valuable if the experience is shared through the UN. 10th Anniversary of the Signing of the UN Charter The I. A. W. Representative attended the Anniversary Celebration held in San Francisco in June 1955. It was an impressive week without the pressure of an agenda. The occasion was one where goodwill and understanding were created, and where a strong plea was made for a return to "the spirit of 1945". Representatives Since 1947 the I. A. W. has been ably represented by Charlotte Mabon, assisted by Anna Lord Strauss, Lois Ruml, Ruth Woodsmall, and Anne Guthrie. Mrs. Mahon gave effectively and generously of her time and ability. The I. A. W. is greatly indebted to her for her eight years' work. Since Mrs. Mahon's resignation the Representatives have been Anne Guthrie, Anna Lord Strauss, Elizabeth Hitchcock, Alvin Dodd, and for UNICEF Mrs. Grant Brown. It has been a privilege to represent the I. A. W. at the Headquarters of the United Nations. The Representatives are grateful for what the experience has meant to them. Conclusion In speaking to an NGO Conference, the Secretary-General said: "You have an unique opportunity of presenting directly to the peoples of the United Nations the facts about its accomplishments and the very real problems which we face ... We may all of us at one time or another not have grasped at the outset the full complexity of an international problem ... We must create understanding for the forces which shape the 45 decision of governments, the many factors of modern life which governments must take into account in reaching their decisions, and the manner in which they must negotiate with one another... Once again, thank you for the good work you have done; and may you have success in your future efforts." The I. A. W. is only one among many Non-Governmental Organisations privileged to play a part in this world effort; but it is one, and it can do its part to help the United Nations in its efforts to eliminate tensions and conflicts, raise the standard of living for those in under-developed areas, and give to all people a place of dignity and respect in the family of nations and the world. Anna Guthrie, New York. Resolutions adopted by the XVIIth Congress of the International Alliance of Women, Colombo, August 1955. GENERAL DECLARATION The 17th Congress of the International Alliance of Women is aware FIRST that world tension is in many respects being lessened by the acceptance by groups of nations of principles of reasonable concession, mutual respect and understanding; SECOND that the development of this world understanding is dependent on reforms which will ensure equality and spiritual freedom under responsibility to each individual man and woman of every country, race, and kind, not only through legislation but through everyday practice and not only in the community but also in the family the fundamental group unit of society. The International Alliance of Women, having striven through its organizations for fifty years for these principles, now proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, will increase its activity to ensure that these Rights are applied, so that obstacles which hinder women from exercising their educational, economic, civil and political rights as equal citizens are overcome. For no community can rise above the General Status of its Women; every community will gain by the inspiration women can bring, and by the working together of men and women towards a richer life. The Woman's Cause is to-day that of all mankind. 46 EQUAL CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS A. Inclusion of Art. 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Art. 22 of the Covenant The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, CONSIDERING THAT a resolution of the 8th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women addressed to E.C.O.S.O.C. asked the Commission of Human Rights to modify the text of Article 22 of the Covenant of Application of the Declaration of Human Rights. This text, in fact, which is intended to put into effect Article 16 of the Declaration, provides only that "legislation of States should be directed towards the equality of spouses as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution", THAT the resolution of the Commission on the Status of Women requested that Article 22 should conform to Article 16, this is to say that it should provide that the legislation of States should insure the equality of spouses, instead of being directed towards equality, THAT E.C.O.S.O.C. had transmitted this resolution to the 9th General Assembly of the U. N. which did not consider it, REQUESTS the Secretary General to inform the General Assembly of the U.N. of this Resolution and of the desire of the Alliance that this Resolution be considered by the 10th Session of the General Assembly, URGES all its affiliated Societies to write to their Governments asking them to request the Secretary General to distribute this Resolution to the General Assembly, have it put on the Agenda and passed on to the 3rd Committee of the General Assembly. B. Survey of public opinion The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, BELIEVING that women's organizations through their experience in field work acquire wide knowledge of the problems of women in their own country; REQUESTS that E.C.O.S.O.C. should approach not exclusively Governments but also women's non-governmental organizations when seeking information concerning the status of women as this would ensure a more comprehensive survey of public opinion. 47 C. Inclusion of Women in delegations (Trust and non-self-governing Territories) The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st 1955, REALIZING, the disabilities of women in Trust and non-self-governing Territories, REALIZING also the international responsibility of women to encourage their participation in all aspects of human enterprise, RECOGNIZING that the United Nations, through its Commission on the Status of Women is making efforts to realize this end, RECOMMENDS that member governments of the Commission who are responsible for the administration of Trust and non-self-governing Territories should be requested to include in their delegations leaders of women's organizations from such areas as alternate delegates, or advisors, so that they may get an opportunity to (a) participate in international organizations, (b) get experience in understand their problems in their international setting, (c) enable them to work for equal rights in their own countries. EQUAL ECONOMIC RIGHTS A. Women's Advisory Bureau The international Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955lll, RECOGNIZING that in certain regions competition for employment in most pressing in unskilled or semi-skilled occupations where women predominate, URGES that I. L. O. should assist those member or non-member States who desire it, to set up a Women's Advisory Bureau. B. Women's and Children's Bureau in the Phillippines The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, considering that WHEREAS statistics reveal that there are about two million women and children workers out of the seven million registered workers in the Philippines; WHEREAS the women and children worker the world over, in the absence of government agencies to take care of them, are invariably the most overlooked group of workers; 48 Evening Party at the country house of the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Sir John Kotelawela. Above: Arrival of delegates from Denmark, Iceland, Australia. Below: The host and Miss Mathieson assisting delegates to mount an elephant. WHEREAS in other progressive countries in the East like India and Japan, whose women have but been recently enfranchised, they have already organized women's and children's bureaux to take care of their working women and children; WHEREAS the existing statutes in the Philippines that aim to protect wage-earning women and children cannot be effectively enforced unless there is an agency to execute their enforcement WHEREAS it is imperative to have an agency whose duty is to formulate standard policies so as to promote the welfare of women and children, help them obtain improvement of their working conditions, increase their working efficiency and advance their opportunities for more profitable employment; RESOLVES that a Women's and a Children's Bureau be included in the reorganization in the Department of Labour. C. Part-time Work The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Columbo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, RECOMMENDS to I. L. O. that part-time work should become an essential part of the organization of Labour, its purpose being to allow women and men workers to avail themselves of that opportunity under fair conditions whenever they deem it compatible with their health, strength or special circumstances. D. Surveys of Labour The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Columbo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, BEARING IN MIND that economic problems of certain regions transcend sex differentiation because of the phenomenal growth in numbers which requires the shifting of excess population from agriculture to other types of remunerative industry, and CONSIDERING that the process of industrialization will involve social problems, RECOMMENDS that experts concerned with economic and social development who are sent out by U.N. and/or its specialized agencies should establish contact with regional women's Non-Governmental Organizations in order to gain as wide a knowledge as possible of local problems and possibilities, SUGGEST that the I.L.O. carry out surveys of labour in such areas. 49 EQUAL EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS A. Inclusion of trained women in Fundamental Education projects The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, NOTING that the UNESCO teams undertaking Fundamental Education projects do not always include trained women personnel in the initial states of their work; BELIEVING that the inclusion of women in such teams is essential to a better understanding of the problems and the gaining of the confidence of the people concerned, REQUESTS that UNESCO, when planning any project dealing with the development of the people of a country, ensures that trained women be included in the staff teams at the commencement of the project. B. Equal facilities for Secondary Education for boys and girls The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, NOTES with satisfaction that Educational facilities have been provided for the Arab Refugees by UNESCO and the UNWRAPNE*) IS SATISFIED that Primary Education is being given to both boys and girls, REQUESTS that equal facilities for Secondary Education also be provided for boys and girls. C. Equal Secondary and further Education for both sexes The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, NOTING that in many countries women are considered inferior to men, especially in countries where women have a lower level of education, RECOGNIZING that one of the results of Education for both sexes is that slowly the idea of equality between men and women grows and discrimination between the sexes disappears, URGES that UNESCO recommends to its Member States that the content of Education in the Primary State be the same for both boys and girls, and that girls be assured of equal access with boys to all types of Secondary Vocational and Technical Education, *) U. N. Works & Rehabilitation Administration (Palestine & Near East) 50 INSISTS that Secondary and further Education should be equal for both sexes. D. Equality of Education for Women The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, WHILE APPRECIATING the efforts and activities of UNESCO to obtain equality of education for women, NEVERTHELESS WISHES this question to have a definite place in the programme of UNESCO, with a view to progressively attaining this end. EQUAL MORAL STANDARD A. The Golden Jubilee Congress of the International Alliance of Women representing 38 countries, assembled in Colombo, has noted with grave concern the action of the Argentine Government in suddenly authorizing the legal re-opening of tolerated brothels, after twenty years' adherence to the p principle of abolition of those brothels. This Congress earnestly requests the Government of the Argentine to reconsider this decision , which is out of line with the action of that Government's representatives who voted for the international Convention for the suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the exploitation of the prostitution of others, at the 264th plenary session of the General Assembly of the United Nations on 2nd December 1949. This Congress points out to the Argentine Government that tolerated brothels offer the most powerful incentive to the traffic in women since tolerated brothels are so which must have fresh supplies of women constantly available; further, such brothels give government sanction to the belief that it is right to set aside one group of women for degradation in order to offer special opportunities for vice, a belief which progressive nations to-day deny. This Congress trusts that the Argentine will join the forward looking nations of the world by rescinding its decision, and will make tolerated brothels illegal. B. This Congress of the International Alliance of Women representing 38 nations, assembled in Colombo for its Golden Jubilee, August 1955, notes with dismay a newspaper report*) concerning proposals for setting up licensed brothels in Singapore in order *) From: The Argus Melbourne, Victoria. 6th August 1955. 4* 51 to provide for Australian troops shortly taking up duty in Malaya. The Congress finds it difficult to believe that the Government operating in Singapore would permit this retrograde step to be taken and while strongly protesting against the possibility of any such action requests the said Government to publish a denial of this degrading report. PEACE AND HUMAN RELATIONS A. The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, 1. REAFFIRMS the resolution passed at its XVIth Congress in Naples 1952, reading as follows: -- BELIEVING that humanity is reaching a state of civilisation where it can settle all its differences by peaceful negotiation and without recourse to force, protests against all means of mass destruction which threatens the civil population including the Atom (and the hydrogen) Bomb. It asks for the abolition of these forms of warfare together with an effective international control which will free mankind from the sense of insecurity and fear which is world wide, APPROVES of the development of atomic power for peaceful purposes and expresses its hope that there will be no more experiments for military purposes. 2. The International Alliance of Women REAFFIRMS its determination and that of the individual societies to do all in its and in their power to encourage the best possible relations between all races of mankind and declares that it and they are opposed to all discrimination based on race, in education, in all forms of labour and in the professions. 3. The International Alliance of Women URGES the greatest possible development of technical assistance as the low standard of living of some peoples constitutes a menace to peace. B. The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955. CONSIDERING that the Charter of the United Nations and the 52 Declaration of Human Rights are based on the principle of equal rights of men and women, of Nations great and small, CONSIDERING that this principle implies the right of peoples to self-government and to determine freely their political status and their national sovereignty, CONSIDERING that the General Assembly of the United Nations in its recommendation of December 1952, upheld the right of people to self-government and thereby recognized the importance of this question, CONSIDERING that attack on this principle is provoking unrest in some countries which is an immediate threat to peace, EXPRESSES the hope that the next General Assembly of the United Nations will find effective means to implement this principle in order to preserve friendly relations between Nations. C. The International Alliance of Women in Congress assembled at Colombo, August 17th to September 1st, 1955, HAVING REGARD to the present trend of world opinion on the problems of peace, DEMANDS that all Governments rigorously refrain from all offensive or provocative utterances, that they should extend their legislation for social assistance and insurances and with all the resources, both material and moral, at their present command should work for the health and welfare of all peoples, so that, when thus freed from too heavy daily burdens, they may reach out to spiritual enlightenment and follow the higher impulses of Peace and Good Will. 53 STUDY COURSE AT COLOMBO Report of the Rapporteur The course was based on the work of the five Standing Committees. The daily meetings opened at 8:45 a.m. and closed at 4:30 p.m. with a break of half an hour at 10:30 and luncheon interval from 12:30 to 2:30. The Chairmen (or Vice-Chairmen) of the Standing Committees presided, and a normal day's timetable began with an introductory speech of about 40 minutes by an expert speaker, followed by 15 minutes for questions, and then brief reports by selected delegates on relevant conditions in their countries. The rest of the morning was devoted to discussion in full session. In the afternoon the delegates were divided into three or four small groups to discuss topics arising from the morning's session, and the group leaders presented their reports to a full gathering before the close of the day. The script of the speeches and reports were distributed in advance of each meeting, which proved most valuable, especially to those who had less knowledge of English. 1. EQUAL EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS Two days were devoted to studying aspects of secondary, vocational, and technical education for girls, and fundamental education and social development. With Mrs. A. E. Bush as chairman, Mr. T. L. Green, Professor of Education in the University of Ceylon, discussed the factors that assisted or hindered the secondary education of girls. He stressed the importance of keeping in view the individual and social needs of girls, their special abilities and interests, as well as the social setting, both rural and urban, when drawing up a curriculum of education in any country. Begum Shamsun Nabar Mahmood of Pakistan and Miss Kinghall of Great Britain read papers on the systems in their countries. Dr. J. D. H. Versluys, UNESCO Social Science Officer in New Delhi, described the research by UNESCO on girls' education and the status of women in S.E. Asia. The subject of vocational and technical education for girls, with suggestions for increasing opportunities to obtain it, was dealt with by Mr. S. L. de Silva, Director of Colombo Technical College, and Miss M. Franken outlined opportunities in the Netherlands. One of the study groups discussed how to insure that technical education should be closely related to the needs of the community. 54 Another stressed the need for boys and girls to be trained in domestic science, since household work was the responsibility of husband and wife alike. Still another decided that secondary education, while it should be equal for boys and girls, need not necessarily be identical. On the second day Begum Saida Waheed took the chair, while Dr. Spencer Hatch, Director of the UNESCO Fundamental Education Centre in Ceylon, spoke on methods of fundamental education for illiterate and rural women in economically less developed areas. He laid stress on training, and said he would like to see the Alliance lead "an active movement for trained women to enter staff teams of every department which had to do with the development of these countries". A paper from Mrs. Doria Shafik (Egypt) was read on the subject, and Mrs. Daniela Celcis (Haiti) and Miss Lily Baeta (Gold Coast) also presented papers. In the discussion that followed it was repeatedly stressed that village women must be trained to act as leaders for fundamental education to work in their own or similar areas. 2. EQUAL MORAL STANDARD Princess Firouz took the chair when Miss Chave Collisson, Chairman of the Equal Moral Standard Committee, addressed the Congress on the UN Convention for the S uppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others. Each delegate had been supplied with a copy of the Convention and a printed booklet on the History of Abolition of Regulated Brothels. Miss Collisson urged each affiliated society to study both documents carefully, and to bring pressure to bear on governments to sign, ratify, and implement the Convention. Tolerated brothels were shops, and like shops had to be supplied constantly with new goods, --hence the Traffic. They offered state support of so-called "safe" vice for men. The Convention outlawed such brothels, and all "measures of exception", such as laws which under the guise of "health" measures required compulsory medical examination of prostitutes. Ignorance, poverty, and certain forms of easy divorce led to prostitution. The story of Micheline Pierre, a French girl trapped by false promise of marriage to a North African tolerated brothel, and thence to a military brothel for the Foreign Legion, was read. Tolerated brothels must be closed; but at the same time the opportunity of occupation and return to a place in ordinary society must be provided for the displaced prostitutes. 55 Women police could be a great help, and Miss Collisson noted the interesting development in Ceylon of such a force. Delegates pledged themselves with raised right hand to fight the Traffic in Women. Mrs. Hacer Bizden (Turkey) re-outlined the principles upon which the Convention was based. She spoke of the development of a high and equal moral standard for both men and women. The functions of the state were limited as regards to sexual morality to the protection of minors, the punishment of public indecency and of fraud in relation to procuration, and the punishment of all who procured, or profited by procuring, women for brothels. 3. EQUAL ECONOMIC RIGHTS With Mrs. Casinader as Chairman, two and a half days were devoted to economic problems, especially part-time work, equal pay, social security services, and the older woman worker. These questions had difficult aspects in different parts of the world. On the subject of the older woman worker, Miss Freida S. Miller showed that in improving their own position, women helped the community. The life of a woman usually followed a different pattern from a man's owing to family responsibilities. Women must keep their skills so as to be able to resume employment when the family was old enough. They could also re-train themselves in up-to-date methods as time went on. Mrs. Moesgaard (Denmark) described a scheme of the Danish Women's Society for retraining older women as clerks. They obtained well-paid jobs on completing the course. Mrs. Fay Doron (Israel) outlined the WIZO scheme for training older women in handicrafts, weaving, etc. Mending Rooms were opened, and a Housekeeping Service organised. Miss Miller gave an account of what was meant by part-time work, and the reasons for its existence. Where there was full employment part-time workers were an essential part of the labour force; where there was under-employment part-time work in the form of village crafts made a valuable addition to the family income. Physically handicapped persons needed part-time work; women with family responsibilities sometimes needed to supplement the family income; some jobs only required part-time workers. Generally rates of pay were about the same, but sometimes sick benefits were not applicable to part-time workers. Mr. M. Rajanayagam, Commissioner of Labor for Ceylon, emphasised the difficulties of under-developed countries, --caste systems, illiteracy, extreme poverty, and the problem of indigenous crafts trying to compete with mass production. 56 Papers by Dr. Ulich-Beil (Germany and Mrs. Carmela Renner (Sierra Leone) followed. The discussion on the UN Equal Pay Convention focussed attention on special issues involved as a result of national variation in the pattern of employment. The driving force behind the struggle was a feeling of injustice that for the same vork there was as different remuneration. Papers were ready by Miss Garnett (Great Britain) and Miss Dumlao (Philippines). Divergent views were expressed on the question of Women's Bureaux. Mrs. Anrep (Sweden) felt that the very establishment of such Bureaux smacked of inequality; but countries as widely dissimilar as Australia (Miss Rich) and Ceylon (Mrs. Sylvia Fernando) made a strong plea for their establishment, and Miss Otsuki (Japan) spoke of the excellent results achieved by the Woman's Minors' Bureau there. The Dual Role of Women was presented in a new and inspiring form by Professor D. P. Mukerji, Chairman of the Department af Economics in the Muslim University of India, who gave a survey of how industrialization had affected the status of women in India. The field of observation was rather the family than the woman. The nuclear of natural family was beginning to take the place of the joint family as the social unit in the urban areas. In urban areas with increased pay and the efforts of social workers, the "level of aspiration" of women had gone up. But 80% of industrial workers in India were without a home, as this was breaking up the family system. Welfare work was doing a lot to combat the evils of industrialisation, but no outside agency could take the place of the family. Begum Anwar Ahmed (Pakistan) made an appel that the East should not repeat the mistakes of the West, where improvement in standard of living had coincided with an increase of juvenile delinquency and the break-up of family life. Mrs. Holmfridur Jonsdottir (Iceland) showed how with industrialisation, domestic science was now taught to boys in school, and Mrs. Elhamy Greiss (Egypt) urged the need for "family-life education" both in school and on the radio. Mrs. Edith Anrep's paper showed that in Sweden 14% of married women were gainfully employed, and of all women employees 30% were married. The state had therefore taken over some of the functions of the changed family, especially in the care of the aged and the pre-school care of children. In summing up Prof. Mukerji made a plea that the State should not be allowed to encroached too far into the sphere of "society" where the family was the unit. 57 4. EQUAL CIVIL & POLITICAL RIGHTS With Mrs. Nina Spiller in the chair, Mrs. Lakshmi M. Menon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs, India, analysed the political role of women. In democracy voters (including women) had the final sanction. Politics was a question of how health, education, law and order, and so on where achieved. Women did not always vote along party lines, but took moral issues to the ballot-box. Literacy and education were necessities. The educated woman must learn to put her education to the use of the community. Mrs. Menon was not in favour of reserved seats for women in parliaments, as this was another form of discrimination. Mrs. Dahlsgaard gave an account of women's political activities in Denmark, and Mrs. Kastner of the work achieved in Australia where there was compulsory voting. Mrs. Celcis (Haiti) told of the first opportunity for women to vote in 1955 in municipal elections, and the official promise that they would be able to vote in the General Election of 1957. Mrs. Rasheed (Egypt) was hopeful that women would be granted full political rights in the near future.*) Mrs. F. B. de Mel showed how women's influence had increased in Ceylon. Mme. Paravicini said that a new approach was being made in Switzerland. The plebiscite had so far refused the vote to women, but there was a growing feeling that woman suffrage had all along been included in the Swiss Constitution, which declared that all Swiss were equal before the law. If this could be recognized, Swiss women would be enfranchised. The discussion groups reported themselves against special privileges for women, special women's parties, and compulsory voting. Political education should begin in school. Practical political education must be the basis of the exercise of fuller citizenship. Mrs. Spiller read Maitre Lehmann's paper recalling that woman suffrage had been the sole aim of the I. A. W. Later its scope included the struggle for equal civil, economic, educational, and moral rights. By 1948 the point was reached where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted, which claimed the equality of all, without distinction of sex, race, religion, or political opinion. All the same in 1955 in no country did women possess full equal civil rights as regards nationality, property, guardianship of children, domicile, etc., particularly in the case of married women. (This was contested by Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland.) _________ *) granted Spring 1956. 58 The Alliance would not rest till Article 16 of the Declaration of Human Rights giving women full equality in marriage was included in the Covenant of Application. Dr. (Mrs.) hurustiati Subandrio (Indonesia) read an extremely interesting paper on the systems of law relating to various religions and customs which hindered the implementation of equal civil rights of women, and dealt with the special difficulties of Hinduism, the Chinese system, Buddhism, and Islam. Papers were read by Mrs. Basnayake (Ceylan), Mrs. el Kousy (Egypt), and Miss Lily Baeta (Gold Coast). After the group discussions the findings were: 1) that all religions granted social justice to women, but their civil rights were impaired by customs and prejudices which were sometimes imbued with religious significance which they need not have; 2) that in most countries there was a growing tendency towards liberal legislation, and a growing relaxation of undesirable traditions; and 3) that women should form strong organisations to safeguard their rights, and to see that legislation was implemented. 5. PEACE & HUMAN RELATIONS Mrs. Corbett Ashby from the chair urged women to use their influence for world peace by taking part in politics and entering parliaments. Mr. J. B. Orrick, Director of the UN Information Centre in Delhi, explained the different procedures to follow for requests from I. A. W to reach UN. Miss Evelyn Rauch, UN Social Welfare Advisor for Asia, explained the types of Technical Assistance available to Governents, -- scholarships, demonstration centres, technical advisors and experts. Begum Anwar Ahmed, 1st Vice-Chairman of UN Status of Women Commission, said that from as far back as 4,000 years ago women had been discriminated against. In many societies a girl was a burden. She should have the maximum dowry and the minimum education. During the past ten years UN had made progress in the economic and social field. Technical Assistance could now be directed towards the field of women's rights. Mrs. Tennison Woods had been sent to help in a project for training Pakistani women in leadership. Mrs. John Sprague Bauman (U. S. A.) dealt with the implications of the coming of atomic power. People must welcome it as a benefit even though it meant a change in the pattern of life. She described its uses in medicine, in food preservation, in industry, and in the development of new agricultural strains. Professor A.W. Mailvaganum (Ceylon) followed a more sombre note. He reminded the delegates of the many miseries 59 which had accompanied the first Industrial Revolution, and begged them to think ahead of the social consequences of the development of the new power. He sketched the development of atomic power from the first experiments at Cambridge, and urged a wider distribution of the new knowledge. Ceylon, for example, had not yet a single person trained in the use of isotopes to relieve cancer. CULTURAL ACTIVITIES An Exhibition organised by the Education Committee was open to delegates and the public throughout the Conference. The societies from fourteen countries exhibited pictures, books, and posters illustrating work organised by them in connection with fundamental education, vocational and technical education for girls and women, and civil and political education for girls and women, and civil and political education amongst women. The section dealing with illiteracy was of special interest. UNESCO contributed a most interesting display of pictures on fundamental education. A number of films vividly presented the work in different countries. An Italian film on the campaign to combat illiteracy, brought by Dr. Scelba, showed how men and women of all ages in a remote Italian village were taught to read and write, and how they themselves built a road to connect their village with the outside world. Another pictured cottage industries in Iceland. Films brought by the Pakistani delegation displayed social work and culture in Pakistan. "World Without End" showed UNESCO projects in Thailand and Mexico. All were much enjoyed. A fascinating Arts & Crafts Exhibition was assembled from gifts brought by the delegates from each country. They were later sold in aid of Alliance funds. Many of the delegates were introduced for the first time to the Eastern forms of Dance and Music. On Various occasions displays were given of lovely Sinhalese and Kandyan dancing, and the Kalalaya School gave a beautiful presentation of the music and dance of South India. A most interesting visit was paid to Colombo Museum, where Mrs. Rischbieth presented a collection of Australian aboriginal weapons, sent by the Director of the Western Australia Museum. RURAL WORK Excursions to various institutes brought forcibly to the delegates the necessity of relating welfare work to the needs of communities. The visit to the cooperative "Better Living Project" in the village of Wewelpanawa showed that it was self-help and cooperation 60 combined with leadership of rural workers, irrespective of sex, that contributed to raising the status of the women. This work was done through the rural societies, the most popular being the Lanka Mahila Samitis. The delegates visited the Kanduwela Training Centre run by the Lanka Mahila Samiti, where girls, carefully selected, were given a comprehensive training in order to be able to go back to their villages as leaders and teachers in practical welfare work. They saw the model house, the nursery school, and a demonstration of outdoor cooking. In the Centre's ten acres of fruit and vegetable garden and paddy field, the girls are trained in modern farming methods so that standards of food production can be improved in the villages. Lady Coomaraswamy, Vice-President of the Associated Country Women of the World, spoke of the spirit of service with which the trainees are imbued. The difficulty of marketing the products of village industries was being met by the L. M. S. Central Sales rooms and the Kalutara Basket Society, both of which the delegates much enjoyed visiting. WELFARE PROJECTS AND NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS Visits were made to hospitals, creches, Family Planning clinics, and schools. Delegates also visited Parliament during a Budget Debate, and lawyer delegates were shown round the Law Courts. They visited the Assize Court and the Court of Criminal Appeal, where they saw a Bench of three Judges (including the Chief Justice) hearing an appeal in an abortion case. The Juvenile Court at work was also visited and Probation Officers interviewed. Australian delegates, themselves magistrates, were invited to sit on the Bench with the Special Magistrate. CONTRIBUTORS Everyone who came to the Congress contributed something towards making it a success. Our hostesses in Ceylon, on whom the burden of organisation and entertainment fell, were doubly responsible for the smooth-running and happiness of the event. The Alliance Officers and Secretariat provided an unfailing source of support and guidance. UNESCO, the Asia Foundation, the Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund, and other bodies helped with generous grants towards administration and travel expenses and by sending expert lecturers. One felt that more people than ever before realised the value of the I. A. W. work, and that wider appreciation and recognition was accorded to this Golden Jubilee Congress of the International Alliance of Women. Margaret Mathieson, Rapporteur. 61 CONGRESS FINANCES Towards Congress expenses the I. A. W. received prior to the Congress gifts to a total amount of £ 195.18.6 from Societies and friends in Egypt, Germany, Iceland, Sweden, Switzerland, and as the result of the Danish lottery. The British effort to raise money was largely helped by a garden party held in London in the lovely grounds of the High Commissioner for Ceylon. An appeal from the platform in Colombo brought £ 818.16.0 of which £ 178.16.0 were paid during the Congress and the balance to be paid within the next three years. The gift stall with arts and crafts brought by the delegates gave £ 214.4.0. BUDGET FOR 1955-58 On behalf of Eva Kolstad, Hon. Treasurer, Nina Spiller presented during a plenary session a short statement on the I. A. W. finances for the coming three years period. The budget prepared by an ad hoc Committee and submitted to the Congress was approved: Annual Expenditure £ 2825, Income £ 940. In order to balance this budget the Congress also passed the resolution "That each country be asked to raise at least £ 50 a year, this to include the affiliation fee now paid and the subscription of any NEW individual members obtained". It was hoped that each society would make a special effort to get new individual members, as this would be the most efficient way of swelling the I. A. W. receipts regularly. The Congress also decided to raise the annual fee of adhering Societies from £ 2 to £ 5. A new Finance Committee was appointed with a view to consolidating the I. A. W. finances, under the chairmanship of Dr. Hanna Rydh. _______________ FINANCES DU CONGRES Pour payer les frais du Congrès l'A. I. F. avait reçu, avant le Congrès, la somme totale de £ 195.18.6, dons desAssociations et amies en Allemagne, Egypte, Islande, Suède, Suisse, et comme résultat de la loterie danoise. Les efforts britanniques de recueilli de l'argent furent amplement aidés par une réception à Londres dans les jolis jardins du Haut Commissaire de Ceylan. Un appel à la séance plénière à Colombo donna comme résultat des promesses de £ 818.16.0 dont £ 178.16.0 furent payés pendant le Congrès et le solde à régler au cours des trois années prochaines. Le résultat du comptoir tori qui vendait les object offerts par les déléguées fut £ 214.4.0. BUDGET DE 1955-58 En l'absence de Eva Kolstad, trésorière honoraire, Nina Spiller présenta, en séance plénière, une note sur les finances de l'A. I. F. pour les trois années suivantes. Le budget, préparé par un comité ad hoc et présenté au Congrès fut approuvé: Dépenses annuelle £ 2825, Recettes £ 940. Afin de balancer ce budget le Congrès adopta la résolution: "Que chaque pays est demandé de payer au moins £ 50 par an. y compris la contribution payée à présent et les cotisations de NOUVEAUX membres individuels obtenus. Il est à souhaiter que les sociétés affiliées fassent un effort spécial pour obtenir de nouveaux membres, car c'est là le moyen le plus sûr de mettre les finances de l'A. I. F. en équilibre. Le Congrès décida aussi de relever la contribution annuelle des Sociétés adhérentes de £ 2 à £ 5. Un nouveau Comité des Finances a été créé afin de consolider les finances de l'A. I. F., avec Dr. Hanna Rydh comme présidente. 62 STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES OF THE SEVENTEENTH (GOLDEN JUBILEE) CONGRESS IN COLOMBO 1955 RECEIPTS Unesco Grants: delegates' Travel assistance . . . . . . . $ 2.577.-- Congress expenses . . . . . . . . $ 1.500.-- $ 4.077.-- £ 1.454. 0. 4 Asia Foundation Grant: Congress expenses . . . . . . . . $ 4.077.-- £ 1.676. 4. 8 Congress fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£ 199. 8. 0 Donations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 195.18. 6 Gift stall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 214. 4. 0 Bank interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . £ 8. 4. 2 £ 3.747.19. 8 EXPENSES Delegate's travel assistance . . . . . . . . . . £ 901.17.10 Guest speakers, Group leaders, Rapporteur's travel assistance . . . . . . . £ 745. 5. 6 Headquarters & Congress Secretariat's expenses, incl. travel assistance, hotel, Congress & Secretariat's accommodation . . . . . . . . £ 1.052.19. 0 Secretariat extra help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 57.15. 6 Postage, telegr., teleph. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£ 111. 6. 6 Printing, duplicating, stationary . . . . . . . . £ 248. 8. 7 Transport of Congress papers . . . . . . . . . £ 31. 4. 0 Bustransport of delegates . . . . . . . . . . . . .£ 91. 5. 0 Entertainments, incl. Congress Dinner, Birthday Party, Committee Lunch meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 91. 2. 0 Silver Jubilee badges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 42.15. 6 Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 18. 3. 0 Miscellaneous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£ 5. 5. 0 £ 3.403. 6. 7 Balance transferred to General account for printing and distribution of Congress Report £ 344.13. 1 MARIE GRAFF Secretary. EVA KOLSTAD Hon. Treasurer. 63 Board and Officers Ester Graff was unanimously reelected President, and the announcement was greeted with acclamation. Three past members of the Board who have for many years served the women's movement with special distinction joined Adèle Schreiber as Honorary Vice-Presidents. They are Marie Ginsberg (U.S.A.), Bessie Rischbieth (Australia), and Nina Spiller (Great Britain). Eva Kolstad (Norway) was reappointed Honorary Treasurer, and Antoinette Quinche (Switzerland) Honorary Secretary. Ezlynn Deraniyagala (Ceylon), Safiyeh Firouz (Iran), Andrèe Lehmann (France), and Bertha Lutz (Brasil) were appointed Vice-Presidents. Eight new members were welcomed to the Board: Anwar Ahmed (Pakistan) is First Vice-Chairman of the Status of Women Commission at UN and an old friend of the Alliance; Edith Anrep (Sweden) is Headquarters Secretary of the Frederika-Bremer-Förbundet and Secretary to the Home Research Institute; Leila Basnaysake (Ceylon) is Honorary Secretary of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference, and a member of the Ceylon Advisory Committee for Women's Welfare Work, and of the Colombo Hospitals Board; Hacer Bizden-Boray (Turkey), Board member of the Turkish Women's Association, is an Entomologist and Agricultural Engineer, who has researched in agricultural statistics for the Ministry of Agriculture; Daniela Celcis (Haiti), International Secretary of the Ligue Féminine d'Action Sociale has done outstanding work for education and the Red Cross; Mary Francken (Netherlands) educationist, has been Headmistress of a school in Indonesia; Wadea Kaddoura Khartabil (Lebanon) is President of the Palestinian Arab Women's League in Lebanon. Vice-President of the Political Committee of the American University Alumni Association, and an active member of other committees; and Terne Otsuki (Japan), Lecturer in Sociology at the Japan Women's University, is International Secretary of the Japan Committee of the S.E. Asian Women's Association, and helped to establish the Women's & Miners' Bureau of the Ministry of Labour in Japan. The Chairmen of the five Standing Committees remained as before, but a sixth was added - a Finance Committee with Hanna Rydh as Chairman. The Admission Committee for amendments of the Constitution. 64 Entertainments Ceylon, Pearl of the East! What visions of oriental colour and tropical delight filled the minds of the delegates as they converged on Colombo! They were not disappointed. There was the great capital, with its graceful harbour and its fine streets full of cars, rickshaws, bullock carts, and gaily dressed pedestrians. This was the meeting place for friends from Asia, Africa, Australia, America, and Europe. The party given by our hostesses of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference at the beautiful home of its President, Mrs. Ezlynn Deraniyagala, was like a dream come true. In the cool garden the lawns were outlined with a multitude of fluttering oil-lamps. Their delicate light combined with multi-coloured floodlighting to give the great trees and slender palms an air of fairyland. The ladies of Colombo added to the charm by their lovely saris and jewels, copied perhaps from those worn by the Queen of Sheba. (It is said that her jewels were of Singhalese workmanship.) The warmth of their welcome was only equalled by the deliciousness of the many good things we were offered to eat. A magnificent evening party was given by the Prime minister, the Rt. Hon. Sir John Kotelawela, at his country house outside Colombo. The spacious gardens were floodlit, and the trees hung with thousands of lights, each in a different colour, so that they seemed to be covered with sparkling flowers. The Prime Minister offered the delegates rides on his elephants, a delight which few could resist, and the Prime Minister himself assisted them to mount. Then followed a wonderful performance of Kandyan dancing in glittering costumes, accompanied by music on instruments such as were used centuries ago. Between the Congress sessions the delegates had hardly a moment when parties and dinners had not been arranged for their entertainment. We are able to mention only some, and apologise for not being able to mention all. There was the Golden Jubilee Birthday Party with the gorgeously iced cake bearing the traditional number of little candles. These were lit and the cake cut by the two Honorary Presidents, Dr. Hanna Rydh and Mrs. Corbett Ashby, and the President, Miss Ester Graff, and handed to the delegates in the Eighty Club's lovely garden. 65 The overwhelming hospitality offered to the delegates included many dinner and supper parties by hostesses in their own homes. Mrs. de Mel gave a supper party and reception, while Lady de Soysa and members of the Y. W. C. A. were entertaining other delegates. Lady Wijeyekoon, though in London, had arranged a party for Board members at the beautiful home of her daughter, Mrs. Tillakeratne, where 55 people spent a happy evening. Mrs. Kannangara gave a luncheon party, and Mrs. Billimoria invited delegates to her lakeside home. The High Commissioners of several countries entertained their delegations, and Begum Haleema Sattar Saith gave a party to meet the Pakistani delegates. The Girl Guides Association and the Muslim Women's Association gave receptions. The Kalalaya School gave an outstanding evening of oriental dancing. The Social Service League and the Association of Teachers of domestic Science gave a dinner party to the Heads of Delegations. The reception given by H. E. Sir Oliver Goonetilleke, the Governor- General of Ceylon, was perhaps the highlight of all. Long before 9 p. m. the stream of cars queued up to approach Queen's House. The garden was a dream of delight. Garlands of lights hung from the trees, and the white walls of Queen's House were floodlit. His Excellency received about a thousand guests, whose names were announced by an aide-de-camp. It was a brilliant gathering. Strolling on the lawn, while a military band played soft music, the delegates had an opportunity of meeting Government officials, diplomatic representatives, and other distinguished men and women. This was indeed an evening which will long be remembered. Though the I. A. W. had neither elephants, dancers, nor even coloured lights with which to reply to the hospitality of Ceylon, the Farewell Dinner at the Galle Face Hotel was an impressive event with the Mayor of Colombo as chief guest. Dr. Hanna Rydh, Honorary President, in a delightful speech of thanks to our hostesses spoke of the rumour, that ran from Iceland to Australia and spanned the world, that an invitation to a fairy island had been sent. Women of 29 countries came wondering if the fairy isle would prove a mirage, but thanks to its gracious inhabitants, the fairy island came true in Colombo and Ceylon. Mrs. Jainudeen, Vice-President of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference and doyenne of the nursing services in the island, made a charming reply, speaking of our fellowship and friendship one with another. 66 The Mayor, Dr. N. M. Perera, then proposed the toast of the I. A. W., showing that he understood and appreciated the aims and programme of the Alliance, and wishing us all success in the next fifty years. In reply, our President, Miss Ester Graff, again warmly thanked all who had taken part in so fine a spirit of cooperation, and pledged the I. A. W. to go forward on its journey towards true Equality. Then a "Round the World Thank You" was said. Representatives of each of the 29 countries rose and thanked our hosts in their own tongues. The final word was left to the oldest President, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, who begged the men who had released the power of nuclear energy, with its immense potential for creation or destruction, to do all that was possible to release the power of the world's Womanhood, whose effects had proved everywhere beneficial to old and young, the sick and the sad. Only then should we know not only what women could do, but, much more thrilling, what men and women could do together. Votes of Thanks The Congress passed an enthusiastic vote of thanks to the Governor-General of Ceylon, H. E. Sir Oliver Goonetilleke for his presence at the opening ceremony and his encouraging address, and also for the wonderful party at the Queen's House where he gave so many of our members the privilege of meeting him personally; to the Prime Minister, The Rt. Hon'ble Sir John Kotelawela for the delightful party at his own home where the beauty of the Kandyan dancers will ever remain with us; to the President and Committee and to the many individual members of the All-Ceylon Women's Conference for the endless care expended on the organisation of the Congress which smoothed out all difficulties, for their untiring hospitality which gave us the rare privilege of visiting the lovely homes of Ceylon and made us feel members of a family; 67 to the brilliant speakers who had spared no trouble to present us with invaluable information and suggestions whose speeches are a mine of inspiration and information; to Chairmen of Committees, to authors of "Journey Towards Freedom", to the staff both from Ceylon and abroad, both voluntary and paid who seemed always smiling and helpful whether manning typewriter, stall or giving information; to the Directors of Institutions notably the Director of the Museum, the Kalalaya School of Dancing and the Lanka Mahila Samiti, Girl Guides, Ceylon Tours and many others who enabled us to appreciate the culture and social services flourishing in Ceylon. Special thanks were also voted with enthusiasm to UNESCO for their help in bringing members and speakers to the Congress; to the Asia Foundation for similar and much appreciated help; to the Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund for the grant towards publishing the "Journey Towards Freedom", for the quite invaluable help given by Mrs. Halsey's unperturbed smiling efficiency; and last but not least to Mother Superior of St. Bridget's for placing the beautiful Convent at our disposal. 68 WORK PROGRAMME 1955––1958 For the International Alliance of Women and its affiliates based on resolutions and recommendations adopted by the Golden Jubilee Congress, Colombo, August 1955. Equal Civil and Political Rights The I. A. W. will work through its affiliated Societies: FOR THE INCLUSION of Art. 16 of the Declaration of Human Rights into the Covenant of Application of that Declaration; TO URGE GOVERNMENTS to ratify as soon as possible the U.N. Convention on the Political Rights of Women in those States which have not yet ratified this Convention; TO REDOUBLE their efforts in order to obtain political rights (which are the source of all other rights) in those countries where women have not yet got political equality i.e. in one country in Europe –– Switzerland –– and eleven other countries in other continents –– Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica, Egypt, Ethiopia, Honduras, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Nicaragua and Yemen; TO URGE GOVERNMENTS to put into practice the recommendation of ECOSOC adopted in July 1954, which invited State Members of the U.N. to take all necessary measures to remove from their legislation all provisions of the Matrimonial System in Common Law which are contrary to the equality of rights of spouses laid down in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; TO URGE GOVERNMENTS to put into practice the recommendations of ECOSOC adopted in July 1954, which invited the State Members of the U.N. to take all necessary measures to guarantee to the Married woman the right to chose an independent profession and to exercise her right to dispose freely of the proceeds of her work; TO CREATE a strong organizational and co-operative effort of women themselves in an endeavour to ensure the implementation of rights guaranteed by legislation. Women's Rights are often restricted by ancient customs and prejudices created by historical circumstances; TO INITIATE campaigns for the practical political education of women citizens. 69 Equal Economic Rights The I. A. W. will work through its national affiliates: TO ESTABLISH Women's or Women and Children's Bureaux, either as part of Governmental machinery or as voluntary bodies in those countries where women need and desire them; TO UNDERTAKE a genuine campaign of education and action for the purpose of persuading Governments to ratify ILO Convention No. 100 on Equal Remuneration for Men and Women Workers for Work of Equal Value; only Austria, Belgium, Cuba, Dominican Republic, France, Mexico, Philippines, Poland and Yugoslavia have ratified this Convention. TO STUDY further Part-time work as an essential part of the organization of labour; the purpose of such study being to allow women and men Workers to avail themselves of that opportunity under fair conditions whenever they deem it compatible with their health, strength or special circumstances; TO COLLECT with assistance from U. N. and/or its specialized agencies, reliable statistics on the economic structure of their respective countries and on the effects of social and labour legislation in order that projects to improve the status of women be based on factual information. Equal Educational Rights The I. A. W. will work through its national affiliates: TO ATTEMPT TO SOLVE the problems and basic needs of the community with special reference to the educational progress of women; TO ENCOURAGE the training of rural women as leaders in those countries where this is necessary, emphasizing the necessity for them to work in their own or similar areas; TO URGE GOVERNMENTS to implement legislation for compulsory primary education for boys and girls in those countries where such legislation exists but is not implemented; TO DEMAND equal opportunities of access to secondary education for women and to press for secondary education where this education does not exist; TO WATCH that sufficient places for women are being provided in Universities and that existing places are being used to the best advantage; and to see that Institutes of Higher Technical and Vocational Education are opened to women in their respective countries. 70 Equal Moral Standard The I. A. W. will strive through its affiliates: TO PROMOTE a high and equal moral standard for both sexes; TO CONSIDER means for securing the loyal and informed adherence of young men and women to that standard and in this connection to promote the study of existing methods of preparing young people for happy marriage and sound family life; TO ABOLISH tolerated brothels in countries where these exist; for tolerated brothels provide powerful incentive for the traffic in women and create the unsound impression that there is one standard of morals for men and another for women. In countries where they do not exist, to aid and support groups fighting for abolition in all possible ways; TO FIGHT for the abolition of laws or customs which degrade women or place them in the position of chattels; TO PUT PRESSURE upon Governments to send delegates to consider, at the Conference shortly to be convened by the U. N., a multilateral Convention on Maintenance and Affiliation orders; to study the conclusions of that Conference with a view to any necessary action. In countries where the problem of deserted wives and mothers is acute, to raise with the government, after consultation with appropriate legal authority, the question of bilateral Conventions on Maintenance and Affiliation orders. Peace and Human Relations The I. A. W. reaffirms its determination and that of its individual societies; TO DO all in their power to encourage the best possible relations between all races of mankind and declares that they will so oppose all discriminations, based on race, in education, in all forms of labour and in the professions, or in any field of human activity; TO PRESS for the greatest possible development of technical assistance where it is needed, to urge Governments, when applying for such assistance, to include in their request technical assistance specially directed to women's needs; TO DIFFUSE the information supplied by U. N. and UNESCO much more widely among their groups and members; TO BUILD UP respect and understanding of the moral value of each community in pluralistic societies; 71 TO START Hospitality Committees, International Clubs or some such medium by which hospitality can be given to visiting members from other countries. Finance In order to continue and to broaden the I. A. W. activities, affiliated Societies and individual Members pledge themselves financially to support the organization. This will be done through proposals from the I. A. W. Finance Committee. One most valuable way to be mentioned here is to get new individual members. 72 PREFACE Les dernières six années ont démontré une augmentation constante du nombre national des membres de l'ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES, surtout pour ce qui concerne les régions économiquement moins développées. Il fur par conséquent décidé à Naples, en 1952, de tenir nothre Congrès Triennal dans l'Orient, avec l'espoir d'aider de cette manière le grand nombre de femmes orientales avec leurs problème fondamentaux, ainsi que de les encourager d'accepter plus de responsabilités dans les affaires sociales - nationales, autant qu'internationales. On espérait également qu'une copréhension plus proche des conditions de l'Orient établirait un féminisme plus réaliste, en enrichissant la contribution de l'A.I.F. non seulement aux femmes de ladite région, mais réellement aux membres de nos sociétés du monde entier. Un invitation de la part de la "All-Ceylon Women's Conference" de venir à Colombo fur acceptée, et la proposition de l'UNESCO d'organiser un Cours d'Etudes, simultanément avec le Congèrs, nous donna une magnifique occasion de fêter notre Congrès de Jubilé en rompant abec le mode traditionnel des Congrès. Un programme fur dressé dans lequel les affaires du Congrès furent combinées avec des conférences par des experts, des groupes d'études, discussions etc., et la durée dut prolongée du terme normal de 9 jours à 16 jours. Ceci donna aux délégations des 29 pays participants une excellente occasion de contribuer leurs expériences spéciales et de discuter les problèmes particuliers de leurs sociétés. De cette façon les résolutions adoptées, ainsi que le programme de travail, eurent une portée bien plus importante. 73 Un autre fait de bonne augure, que je voudrais mentionner ici, est qu'un plus grand nombre de sociétés que jamais auparavant pour les Congrès de l'A. I. F. avait réussi à obtenir de leur gouvernement respectif ou des fonds nationaux des secours financiers pour les dépenses de voyage de leur délégation. Il nous semble que ceci indique une reconnaissance toujours croissante de noire mouvement. C'est avec un vif plaisir que je présente ce Rapport, et je profite de cette occasion de joindre aux remerciements exprimés par le Congrès, ma gratitude personnelle la plus sincère à chacun et tous - déléqués, donateurs, hótes, lecteurs, organisateurs - qui chacun de sa manière inestimable a tant contribué à faire de ce Congrès, qui fut le premier de mon terme de Présidente, une expérience aussi inoubliable que belle, et à faire un tel succès de cet èvènement historique - le premier Congrès du Mouvement International des Femmes ayant eu lieu en Asie. Ester Graff Présidente. 74 L'Inauguration du Jubilee d'Or du Congres La Cérémonie eut lieu le 18 aout dans le beau hall de l'Ecole Ste Bridget. Les piliers étaient enguirlandés de plantes grimpantes et de fleurs de cocotier dorées, et l'estrade décorée dans le style riche et traditionnel, de papiers, rouges, verts, bleus et jaunes, plissés et formant des dessins décoratifs. Les Déléguées, les membres du corps diplomatique et le public étaient déjà placés pour l'arrivée de Son Excellence Sir Oliver Goonetilleke, le Gouverneur Général, celui-ci marchant avec la Présidente, Mlle Ester Graff, et les Présidentes Honoraires d l'A. I. F., fut conduit jusqu'au daïs, suivi des jeunes danseurs de Kandy. Mme Deraniyagala, Présidente de la Conference des Femmes de Tout Ceylan, nous fit remarquer que c'était un point d'orgueuil que Ceylan fut choisi pour le Congrès. Son Excellence, le Gouverneur Général, parla de l'immense travail accompli par les sociétés féminines de Ceylan. Le Congrès leur apportera de fraîches inspirations, a-t-il dit, pour le service de leur pays. Dr. N. M. Perera, le Maire de Colombo, souhaita la bienvenue aux déléguées, et compara l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes à un phare dont la lumière guide les fesses asiatiques la où les divisions de castes, de croyances et de sexes sont si difficiles à briser. Notre Présidente, en sa réponse, fit sentir combien le monde avait un besoin urgent de la pleine contribution des femmes; que c'était le but de l'A. I. F. de voir la femme obtenir l'opportunité désirée, et être reconnue comme individu. L'objet de l'A. I. F. était analogue; il avait toujours été celui proclamé maintenant dans la Déclaration universelle des Droits de l'Homme, et les sujets à étudier à la présente Conférence ont relation, toutes, aux conditions susceptibles de favoriser la meilleure application de cette Déclaration - celles, surtout, qui concerne la femme. L'appel des noms des déléguées prit un caractère très pittoresque. La tête de chaque délégation vint pour sa présentation au Gouverneur Général, et fut ensuite enguirlandée de fleurs de jasmin, à la maniere traditionnelle ceylannaise. 75 Des compliemnts furent adresśes par Mr. James B. Orrick, Directeur du Bureau Central de Renseignements des Nations Unies, des Indes, de Burma et de Ceylan, et par les représentantes des régions de: l'Afrique, l'Asie, l'Australie, l'Europe, l'Amérique latine et du Moyen Orient. Sir Oliver alluma allows le pana symbolisant l'ouverture du Congrés, et, comme chaque Présidente alluma une mèche du grand chandelier, celui-ci devint bientôt un feu éclatant de lumière. L'ACTIVITE DUE COMITE EXECUTIF ET DU SECRETARIAT CENTRAL Réunions du Comité exécutif Depuis le Congrès de Naples, en 1952, le Comité élu au Congrès s'est réuni à Copenhague (en juin 1953), à Londres (en juin 1954) et à Paris (en février 1955). Plus de la moitié des membres ont assisté à chacune de ces réunions, ce qui est assez remarquable étant donné que l'Alliance internationale des femmes n'a malheureusement aucun poste à son budget pour les frais de voyage des membres du Comité et que, d'autre part, ces frais de voyage augmentent toujours. A la réunion de Londres, plus des trois quarts des membres du Comité et que, d'autre part, ces frais de voyage augmentent toujours. A la réunion représentant 15 nationalités, étaient présents, grâce à l'hospitalité gracieusement offerte au Comité par la Présidente d'honneur, Mme Corbett Ashby, dans sa charmante maison près de Londres. A part ces réunions annuelles du Comité, la Présidente a rencontré avec Mme Hanna Rydh, Présidente d'honneur (à Copenhague en octobre 1952 et à Lund en avril 1955) avec Me. Andrée Lehmann (à Paris en novembre 1952) et avec Me. Antoinette Quinche (à Berne, en avril 1953). Des réunions restreintes ont été tenues par la Présidente à Stockholm (en juillet 1953) avec les deux Présidentes d'honneur, Elle Ginsberg et Mme Key Āberg; à Copenhague avec Mme Scelba et Mme Firouz (en mai 1954); et à Londres (en janvier 1954 et février 1955) avec les membres du Comité domicillés dans cette ville plus, à la première de ces re-unions, Mms Deraniyagala et Mme Everts Goddard. Le Comité international (membres du comité exécutif et présidentes des sociétés affiliées) s'est réuni à Londres (en juin 76 1954). 21 pays y étaient représentés par 32 déléguées. Un rapport détaillé sur les discussions, qui furent animées et importantes, a été rédigé et envoyė à toutes les sociétés affiliées en novembre 1954. A chacune des réunions du Comité exécutif, les sociétés affiliées du pays où avait lieu la réunion, ont organisé des rencontres entre le Comité et leurs membres. Nous persons que ces réunions ont été utiles, à la fois pour le Comité et pour les sociétés affiliées elles-mêmes. Comité exécutif Le Comité de l'Alliance internationale des femmes a eu la douleur de faire une très grande perte par la mort subite et tragique de Mme Jeanne Vialle, en février 1953. De père français et de mère africaine, Mme Jeanne Vialle avait fonctionné comme expert pour les problèmes de l'esclavage et elle était très compétente en cette matière. Elle travaillait, en outre, sans relâche à l'amélioration de la condition des femmes africaines. Mme Ceza Nabarouy, bien connue des membres de l'Alliance par son travail infatigable pour la cause des femmes de l'Egypte et du Moyen-Orient, a démissionné du Comité en 1953. Pour repourvoir ces deux places devenues vacantes, le Comité a appelé par cooptation, en 1954, Mme Carmela Renner de Sierra Leone pour remplacer Mme Vialle, et Mme Nahid Sirry, présidente de l'Union féministe Egyptienne fondée il y plus de trente ans, pour remplacer Mme Nabaraouy. Ces deux membres se sont révélés des membres très utiles à l'Alliance internationale des femmes. Contact personnel avec les Sociétés affiliées Jusqu'à tout récemment, la Présidente avait une profession qui occupait tout son temps, de sorte qu'elle n'a pu faire que de courts voyages pendant l'exercice écoulé, ses vacances annuelles ayant été prises par les réunions du Comité et le cours d'études au Danemark, dont il sera parlé plus loin. Immédiatement après son élection, en 1952, la Présidente est allée prendre part à une réunion des Organisations non-gouvernementales, a l'UNESCO. Elle a assisté également à l'ouverture et à quelques séances de la Conférence Générale bisannuelle de l'UNESCO, a paris, afin d'apprendre à connaître ce domaine d'activité de l'Alliance internationale des femmes, qu'elle connaissait très peu. Au printemps 1953, elle a rendu visite aux membres du Siège central de notresociété affiliée d'Allemagne, à Berlin-Ouest, ainsi qu'à ses sections de 77 Hambourg, Hannovre et Frankfurt. Elle a poursuivi son voyage jusqu'en Suisse, où elle a été reçue par notre sociéteé affitrętiens et des discussions intéressantes avec nos membres. Le but de son voyage était Zurich où Mme Eder, présidente du Conseil international des femmes, l'avait aimablement invitée à passer quelques ours dans sa maison, pour discuter des problèmes communs à nos deux anciennes organisations. En se rendant à Londres, en février 1954, la Présidente a ressenti l'expérience la plus inoubliable de sa vie grâce à un programme magnifique, bien que serré, organisé par las membres britanniques du Comité de l'Alliance internationale des femmes. Elle a eu ainsi la possibilité de recontrer non suelement des membres des sociétés affiliées britanniques, mais aussi de plusieurs sociétes féminines d'outre-mer. C'est là qu'elle a eu pour la première fois l'occasion de faire la connaissance de femmes de pays éliognés, difficiles à atteindre, et d'apprendre à connaître réellement leurs problèmes. Entretemps, de nombreux contacts personnels nouveaux ont été ébauchés et d'anciens liens renforcés en Orient par Mmr Hanna Rydh, présidente d'honneur qui, à l'occasion de deux voyages aux Indes, a fait de grands détours pour aller rendre visite à nos société affiliées d'Israël, du Pakistan, de Thailande, de Ceylan, du Japon, et des Philippines, ainsi qu'à des femmes en vue de Birmanie, des Indes, de l'Indonésie et du Népal. Nouvelles Adhésions Un rapport séparé sera présenté par la Commission des admissions, mais nous désirons attirer l'attention sur le fait que, si le congrès ratifie les demandes d'adhésion qui lu sont présentées, le nombre de nos société affiliées, en cette nnée de Jubilé, sera plus grand qu'il ne l'a jamais été dans l'histoire de l'Alliance internationale des femmes. Nous désirons également souligner le fait que les deux tiers environ des pays représentés dans notre association dont partie de régions économiquement peu développées. On doit s'en féliciter, car cela prouve que l'Alliance internationale des femme s'adapte aux circonstances et que les femmes dirigeantes de ces régions apprécient l'appui et l'encouragement que l'Alliance internationale des femmes s'efforce de leur apporter dans leur tâche difficile, qui consiste à relever la condition des femmes en même temps que celle des hommes et à lutter pour obtenir des droits égaux et des responsabilités égales en tant que citoyens éclairés. 78 D'un autre côté, nous enregistrons avec regret que l'une de nos sociétés affiliées du Liban, la Fédération féministe du Liban, s'est dissoute après que les femmes de ce pays aient obtenu le droit de vote, et qu'en outre, les lettres adressées par le Congrès de Naples à la Conférence des Femmes des Indes et à la Ligue des femmes électrices des Etats-Unis au sujet de leur réaffiliation, sont restées sans réponse. Nous tenons cependant à ajouter immédiatement avec reconnaissance que des membres de ces deux organisations des Indes et de l'Amérique ont collaboré activement à certaines de nos travaux pendant l'exercice écoulé. Membrs individuels Avant la guerre, en 1939, le nombre des membres individuels payant une cotisation annuelle de £1 et plus, et recevant, franco de port, les "Nouvelles Féministes Internationales", s'élevait à 158. Depuis la guerre, de nombreux efforts ont été faits pour augmenter le nombre de ces membres et aujourd'hui (juillet 1955) nous comptons 410 membres de cette catégorie qui, sauf quelques exceptions, ont réglé leur cotisation. Nous espérons que cette augmentation de membrs encouragera nos amis à joindre leurs efforts aux nôtres pour augmenter encore le nombre de ces membres qui nous sont très nécessaires, étant donné que la cotisation n'a pas changé depuis 1939 alors que les frais d'impression du bulletin et le port ont haussé continuellement. D'autre part, les abonnés payent 10 sh. sont moins nombreux qu'en 1939, époque à laquelle leur nombre paraît avoir été de 157 comparé à 130 aujourd'hui. Nouvelles Féministes Internationales Les éditrices honoraires des "Nouvelles Féministes Internationales" vous présentreont elles-même leur rapport, mais nous estimons de notre devoir de rappeler aux membres de l'Alliance internationales des femmes le travail assidu de Mme Corbett Ashby, présidente d'honneur, et de Mmr Spiller qui, gracieusement et sans budget permettant de payer l'aide d'une secrétaire, ou de rémunérer des collaboratrices, nous procurent tous les mois des nouvelles, des opinions et des renseignements sur les sujets d'importance vitale pour nous et pour nos membres, et mettent à notre disposition des faits et des arguments utiles à notre cause. Ce journal est le visage que l'Alliance internationales des femmes montre au monde; il est apprécié aussi par les organismes officiels internationaux, par 79 la presse et par beaucoup d'autres personnes en dehors de la famille de l'Alliance internationale des femmes. Les éditrices ont droit à toute notre reconnaissance et elles méritent que nos membres aident le Comité exécutif à augmenter le nombre des abonnés, afin que le journal puisse être imprimé avec moins de perte que jusqu'à maintenant. In memoriam A part Jeanne Vialle, nous devons encore rappeler les noms de trois personnes qui sont décédées depuis 1952: Lady Pethick Lawrence dont le nom est lié pour toujours à l'affranchissement des femmes et tout spécialement à la lutte britannique pour le suffrage des femmes; Mme Ingeborg Hansen, présidente du Sénat danois et pendant nombre d'années membre très actif du Comité exécutif de l'Alliance internationale des femmes; Mme Maud Wood Park du Massachusetts (Etats-Unis) qui était très attachée à la Présidente fondatrice de l'Alliance internationale des femmes, Mme Carrie Chapman Catt. Son dévouement à l'Alliance était grand et sincère; au mois de mars, peu de jours avant sa mort, elle a adressé ses voeux les plus sincères pour la réussite de notre Congrès de Colombo, ainsi que ses félicitations pour l'activité continue de l'Alliance internationale des femmes qui a rendu possible la célébration de ce cinquantième anniversaire. Quelques-uns de nos membres âgés seulement se souviendront des noms de Dr. Smith, de Mme Anderson et de Melle V. M. M. Vicat Cole, toutes de Grande Bretagne, mais le dévouement de ces trois femmes pour l'A. I. F. et leur confiance dans son activité future étaient si grands qu'elles ont fait un legs à l'A. I. F. par testament. Historique de l'A. I. F.: »Journey towards Freedom«. Au Congrès de Naples, quelques nouveaux membres ont exprimé leurs regrets de ne pas posséder un historique de l'A. I. F. Elles estimaient que ce serait pour elles un encouragement de connaître les luttes menées ensemble par les femmes pour l'amélioration de la condition de la femme au cours des cinquante dernières années. Cette excellente suggestion a été réalisée. Le livre intitulé "Journey towards Freedom" a été écrit pour le Jubilé de l'A. I. F. par Mme Schrelber, vice-présidente d'honneur, qui était au berceau de l'A. I. F. il y a un demi-siècle, avec la collaboration de Margaret Mathieson, un des plus jeunes membres de notre Comité exécutif. Nos chaleureux remerciements vont aux auteurs qui, gracieusement, 80 ont réuni les matériaux provenant de sources nombreuses et les ont transformés en un livre qui a toutes les chances de devenir un "best seller" dans le cercle toujours grandissant des personnes qui s'intéressent à notre travail, et qui fera faire un bon pas en avant à notre, si nos membres veulent bien nous aider à le faire connaître et à le vendre. Une partie importante des frais d'impression a été payée par le fond "Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund Inc., créé en 1947 par la Ligue des femmes électrices des Etats-Unis en l'honneur d notre chère fondatrice et pour continuer la tâche à laquelle elle avait voué sa vie. Nous sommes très reconnaissantes pour cette aide grâce à laquelle, une fois les frai de port réglés, le prix de vente du livre "Journey towards Freedom" aidera l'A. I. F. au long de sa route pendant son deuxième cinquantenaire. Activités régionales L'attention fut concentrée sur les territoires économiquement moins développés lorsque, au Congrès de Naples, en 1952, la société cingalaise affiliée à l'A. I. F. proposa que l'on organisât des groupes régionaux, afin que les problèmes de chaque région puissent être traités selon ses besoins particuliers. On se rappellera que l'A. I. F. accepta avec empressement cette proposition et qu'elle divisa son programme de travail en cinq régoins: l'Afrique, l'Asie et l'Extrême Orient, l'Europe, l'Amérique latine et le Moyen Orient. Mme Deraniyagala, présidente de l'association de Ceylan affiliée à l'A. I. F., fut nommé directrice de la région de l'Asie et l'Extrême Orient et, avec l'aide de son Comité régional, à Ceylan, elle s'occupa activement, pendant dixhuit mois, à organiser sa région. Son activité aboutit à la réunion d'une Conférence régionale, tenue à Colombo en juillet 1954, à laquelle prirent part des déléguées de Ceylan, des Indes, d'Indodésie, du Japon, du Nepal, du Pakistan et des Philipines. Un rapport détaillé extrêmement intéressant de cette Conférence qui avait pour titre "L'éducation des femmes dans un Orient en pleine transformation" a été envoyé à toutes les sociétés membres de l'A. I. F. en Asie et en Extrême Orient a été inaugurée sérieusement et semble pleine de promesses. Le Comité exécutif espère sincèrement que la discussion projetée sur les activités régionales, au cours du Congrès du Jubilé, amènera les autres régions à adopter une activité semblable. Toutes ont eu une excuse valable pour n'avoir pas encore organisé 6 81 leur travail ou un plan de travail: l'Afrique à cause de la mort subite de Mme Vialle et les recherches difficiles qu'il fallut faire pour lui trouver un successeur; la démission de Mme Nabaraouy à qui Mme Firouz succéda en 1954, comme directrice régionale du Moyen Orient. Melle Lutz, directrice de la région de l'Amérique latine, avait fait des démarches nécessaires pour organiser une réunion de la Commission Interaméricaine des femmes qui devait avoir lieu dans ce pays. Cependant les deux réunions furrent renvoyées à cause du terrible cataclisme qui ravagea Haïti cet automne-là. Mme Everts-Goddard, l'une des hôtesses éminentes du Congrès l'Europe, a été souffrante pendant une longue période et après sa guérison, n'a pas pu, à son vif regret et au nôtre, consacrer assez de temps au travail de l'Alliance pour lequel elle a une véritable vocation. Quatre semaines de Cours d'études au Danemark Pendant les 40 premières années, l'activité de l'A.I.F. a été concentrée tout naturellement essentiellement sur l'Europe. Après la première guerre mondiale, quand les femmes des régions économiquement moins développées commencèrement à s'intéresser plus activement aux affaires publiques - nationales et internationales - l'A.I.F. s'efforÇa d'inclure ces femmes dans son programme, En. 1948 et 1950, sous la présidence de Mme Hannah Rydh, l'A.I.F. et son association suédoise on organisé, en Suède, des cours d'études sur le développement social et économique de notre époque, qui eurent lieu, en 1948, pendant huit semaines pour les femmes de l'Orient; en 1950, pendant six semaines pour les femmes du Moyen Orient, de l'Asie, de l'Europe et des Etats-Unis (des rapports détaillés se trouvent dans le rapport sur le Congrès de Naples). Au cours du présent exercise, en été 1954, l'A.I.F., en collaboration avec son association danoise, suivit l'exemple de la Suède et organisa, sous la présidence de sa Président actuelle, un cours d'études de quatre semaines au Danemark, auquel prirent part les déléguées de 27 pays, entre autres du Brésil, de Ceylan, de l'Egypte, de la Grèce, de Haïti, des Indes, de l'Iran, de l'Irac, d'Israël, du Nigeria, du Pakistan, des Philippines, de Sierra Leone, de la Turquie et de la Yougoslavie. Toutes les sociétés affiliées à l'A.I.F., avaient été priées d'envoyer chacune une déléguée qui était invitée au Dane- 82 mark. Les déléguées ont été logées pendant une partie de leur séjour chez des membres de l'Association danoise à Copenhagen et dans des petites villes de province; elles ont passé deux semaines dans le Collège populaire d'Elseneur; la première semaine, elles se sont trouvées en compagnie d'un nombre égal de membres de l'association danoise et le thème de discussion portrait sur "Les femmes dans la communauté". La seconde semaine, elles sont restées seules pour entendre des conférences faites par des experts danois sur "Les Services sociaux et culturels au Danemark". Du Collège populaire, le groupe s'est rendu au Collège des femmes de l'Université d'Aarhus, où les participantes ont longé pendant qu'elles visitaient les institutions sociales d'Aarhus. Le but de ce cours était de promouvoir l'idée de compréhension internationale, d'élargir notre sens civique et de donner un stimulant à nos idées et à nos activités en tant que membres de la société. Le succès fut à tous égards plus grand que les organisatrices n'avaient osé l'espérer. Le choix des déléguées s'est révélé excellent: des mères de famille, des femmes exerçant une profession, des étudiantes, des membres agés pleins d'expérience et des jeunes membres zêlés, toutes travaillant activement dans leurs associations nationales. 39 déléguées désireuses de voir et de s'instruire sont venues discuter les nombreux problèmes pour lesquels nos associations luttent à la fois pour la cause des femmes et pour leur pays. Et les discussions se poursuivirent de façon admirablement démocratique. Environ un tiers des déléguées étaient âgées de moins de 35 ans, ce qui est encourageamnt pour l'avenir. Nous sommes très reconnaissantes à notre Association danoise, au Gouvernement danois et à un grand nombre de Maisons de commerce danoises pour leur aide généreuse qui nous a aidées à couvrir les frais du cours, à l'UNESCO pour les bourses de voyage qu'elle a accordées jusqu'au Danemark à deux déléguées du Moyen Orient, et au Fond Carrie Chapman Catt qui nous a apporté un appui inestimable en accordant des indemnités de voyage à deux déléguées de l'Afrique et à une déléguée du Moyen Orient. Relations avec l'ONU, le BIT, l'UNESCO et d'autres institutions spécialisées de l'ONU Ce domaine important de notre activité se développe d'année en année. Les organismes administratifs, internationaux, se rendrent compte de plus en plus qu'une collaboration avec les organisations non-gouvernementales est nécessaire, si l'on 6* 83 veut arriver à appliquer la Déclaration universelle des droits de l'Homme. Un rapport séparé sera présenté au Congrès par les représentantes se l'A.I.F. accréditées auprès du Conseil économique et social de l'ONU et de ses commissions de la Condition de la Femme et des Droits de l'Homme, à New York. L'examen de ce rapport et des rapports présentés par les présidentes de nos cinq commissions permanentes donnera une idée de la collaboration existant entre notre association et les différents organismes de l'ONU. Cet examen renforcera, nous l'espérons, le sentiment de responsabilité de nos sociétés affiliées, dont les réponses à nos questionnaires sont extrêmement importantes. Elles nous permettent de fournir à l'ONU et à ses institutions spécialisées, sur leur demande, de renseignements sur le point-du-vue de nos associations relatives aux conditions de leur pays et éventuellement des suggestions pour l'amélioration de ces conditions. En plus de questions traitées par les organismes de l'ONU, qui se trouveront dans les rapports de nos commissions permanentes pour l'exercice écoulé, il y a lieu de mentionner les sujets suivants, dont l'A.I.F. s'est occupée: Suppression des préjugés et discriminations La Commissions de Droits de l'Homme, nommée par l'ONU, s'occupe activement depuis plusieurs années de cette question. Des sous-commissions ont été nommées, aux fins d'élaborer un programme de travail dans le domaine de la lutte contre les discriminations, et les organisations non-gouvernementales qui travaillent dans ce domaine ont été invitées à collaborer à cette activité. C'est ainsi qu'en septembre 1953, on a demandé l'avis des ONG sur l'opportunité de convoquer les organisations intéressées pour leur permettre de se rencontrer et d'échanger leurs idées sur les méthodes les plus efficaces qui permettraient de lutter contre les mesures discriminatoires existant, ainsi que sur la possibilité d'établir des plans et des programmes communs. En cas de réponse affirmative, l'ONU désirait recevoir un résumé succinct de nos activités se rapportant à ce problème. Nous avons répondu que l'A. I. F. était très favorable à l'idée d'une convocation de cette Conférence. Nous avons annexé à notre réponse un court exposé de nos activités dans ce domaine et nous avons fait remarquer qu'en vertu de ses statuts, l'A. I. F. porte tous ses efforts à la lutte contre toutes les discriminations basées sur le sexe - qu'elles soient de nature légale, législative, conventionelle ou morale - ainsi 84 que contre les discriminations basées sur la race, car nous estimons qu'elles sont une des principlales sources des tensions internationales. L' A. I. F. a également été invité par la sous-commission chargée des questions (a) des droits politiques, (b) des droits et pratiques religieux et (c) de l'émigration, de l'immigration et des voyages, à lui soumettre des suggestions concernant l'étude de ces sujets. L'Alliance internationale des femmes a suggéré ce qui suit: Droits politiques: L'étude ne devrait pas se limiter aux législations en vigueur, mais comprendre aussi les faits réels qui empêchent souvent les femmes d'exercer leurs droits politiques. Droits et pratiques religieux: Les offres des cultes de toutes les communautés religieuses devraient être accessibles aux deux sexes et l'égalité devrait être accordée aux femmes pour la participation aux fonctions de culte. Emigration, immigration, etc.: L'étude de ces questions ne devrait pas être limitée aux minorités, car, dans certains cas, les majorités sont aussi victimes d'injustices dues à une législation et à des coutumes discriminatoires. En outre, l'A. I. F. a suggéré à la sous-commission d'ajouter l'éducation aux sujets à étudier, et elle a exprimé l'espoir que la sous-commission voudra bien inclure dans ses études les territoires non-autonomes. Le développement de la situation au point-de-vue racial dans l'Union sud-africaine a été l'objet, comme tout le monde le sait, d'études spéciales entreprises par l'ONU. A titre d'organisation non-gouvernementale jouissant du statut consultatif auprès de l'ONU et engagée activement dans la lutte contre les préjugés et les discriminations, l'A. I. F. a été informée par la Commission, en mars 1954, de la situation existant au point-de-vue racial dans l'Union en question. La Commission ajoutait qu'elle serait heureuse de recevoir tous les renseignements qui pourraient lui être utiles dans l'accomplissement de sa tâche, et en particulier toutes les suggestions se rapportant aux mesures compatibles avec les dispositions de la Charte des N. U. qui pourraient être recommandées pour améliorer la situation et favoriser un arrangement pacifique. L' A. I. F. ne pouvait donner de renseignements, car elle n'a pas, dans l'Union sud-africaine, de société affiliée qui aurait pu lui fournir des renseignements, mais nous avons suggéré à l'ONU de convoquer le plus tôt possible la Conférence envisagée 85 sur la lutte contre les discriminations, cette mesure pouvant peut-être amener une amélioration à la situation. Afin de nous préparer à cette Conférence, nous avons demandé à nos sociétés affiliées de nous fournir des renseignements sur les discriminations, basées sur le sexe ou la race, qui pourraient exister dans leur pays, et deux enquêtes nous ont apporté un nombre inusité de réponses détaillées donnant des faits et montrant le travail entrepris par nos sociétés pour combattre ces deux discriminations. Ces réponses nous ont été très utiles, lorsque l'invitation à prendre part à la Conférence nous est parvenue et qu l'on nous a demandé de présenter aux organisateurs un rapport de 2000 mots sur l'action possible légale, éducative et sociale, ainsi que sur les autres mesures que nos sociétés ont trouvées particulièrement efficaces ou inefficaces; ce rapport devait faire partie de la documentation destinée à préparer la Conférence. La Conférence a eu lieu à Genève, en mars 1955, et un résumé du rapport de cette Conférence, fait par Mme Cholsy, représentant de l'A. I. F. auprès du Centre européen de l'ONU, a été publié dans les "Nouvelles féministes internationales", en mai 1955. Services Sociaux En 1953, nous avons été informés, par la Divison des Services sociaux de l'ONU, que la publication pour 1954 d'un rapport sur "les mesures nationales et internationales prises pour améliorer les conditions sociales dans le monde entier" était en préparation. Ce rapport avait pour but de permettre aux pays de profiter des expériences les uns des autres, afin d'élever le niveau de vie de leurs ressortissant. Les ONG, et par conséquent l'A. I. F., étaient invités à collaborer à ce rapport en envoyant la documentation qu'elles possédaient. Cette invitation a été transmise à nos sociétés affiliées (lettre circulaire No. 18/1953) et nous leur avons demandé de nous indiquer les programmes spéciaux de développement social de leur pays depuis 1945, et uniquement dans le domaine qui nous intéresse particulièrement: à savoir la condition et les possibilités de la femme. Des rapports nous sont parvenus de 7 pays (Ceylan, Danemark, Grande Bretagne, Jamaïque, Norvège, Suède, Suisse), ce qui était peu; mais néanmoins Mme Julia Henderson, Directrice de la Division des Services sociaux, en nous accusant réception pour ces rapports, nous a écrit qu'ils contenaient des renseignements précieux qu'elle n'aurait pas pu inclure dans son rapport autrement. 86 L'année suivante, cette même Division de l'ONU a demandé des renseignements destinés à un rapport sur les services d'assistance sociale rendus aux émigrés par les ONG, rapport qui devait être soumis à la Xe session de la Commission sociale, au début de 1955. La question de la migration n'est pas au programme de l'A. I. F. mais, une résolution ayant été adoptée sur cette question par le Congrès de Naples, nous avons transmis le questionnaire à nos sociétés affiliées de quatre pays (l'Australie, l'Allemagne, Israël et le Pakistan) qui, d'après ce que nous avons compris, ont à leur programme la question des services sociaux pour émigrés. Les rapports qui nous sont parvenus ont été transmis à la Division de l'ONU. Esclavage et autres formes de servitude En juin 1953, le Conseil économique et social a invité les ONG à recueillir et à transmettre à l'ONU des renseignements sur certains problèmes concernant ce sujet. Nous venions de perdre Mme Jeanne Vialle, seule femme expert membre de la commission de l'esclavage de l'ONU, et nous n'avions pas encore réussi à trouver, pour la remplacer, une femme neutre expert en matière d'esclavage, de sorte que nous n'avons pas encore pu donner de renseignements à ce sujet. Nous nous sommes bornées à nous référer à la résolution sur l'esclavage, adoptée par le Congrès de Naples et adressée à l'ONU. L'ONU prépare une nouvelle convention sur l'esclavage et, comme ce sujet est compris dans le programme de l'A. I. F., nous espérons pouvoir continuer à collaborer avec l'ONU, grâce à l'aide compétente de nos nouveaux membres africains. Bombes atomiques et hydrogènes Les rapports établis sur les effets destructeurs des expériences faites avec ces armes, ainsi que le défaut de contrôle international de l'énergie nucléaire qui préoccupe profondément l'humanité entière, ont amené quelques-unes de nos sociétés à nous demander de nous joindre à ceux qui insistent auprès des organismes responsables pour qu'ils arrivent à une entente sur la question. Le Comité de l'A. I. F. réuni en juin 1954, a adressé une résolution au Conseil économique et social de l'ONU, qui nous a répondu qu'il y serait donné suite, selon la procédure établie pour les communications adressées à la Commission du désarmement. Dans cette résolution, nous avons demandé aux grandes Puissances d'accepter un contrôle de cette énergie, afin de prouver que l'humanité est consciente de sa responsabilité morale à l'égard de ce grave problème et qu'elle est décidée à contrôler les effets destructeurs de la connaissance scientifique de notre époque. 87 Accès des femmes aux fonctions civiles internationales La commission de la condition de la femme a adopté, à sa huitième session, une résolution recommandant entre autres aux ONG de continuer à souligner l'importance qu'il y a à étendre l'accès des femmes aux fonctions publiques sur le plan national, car cela constitue un stimulant à leur admission aux fonctions civiles internationales. L'A. I. F. fut requise de faire toutes démarches utiles pour que le désir exprimé par la Commission soit réalisé. Cependant cette partie importante de notre travail ne peut être effectuée que par l'intermédiaire de nos sociétés nationales, de sorte que notre première démarche a constitué à publier, en novembre 1954, un appel à celles-ci dans notre bulletin, "Les Nouvelles féministes internationales", qui est distribué gratuitement à toutes nos associations. Libération des échanges internationaux L'A. I. F. craint que la politique économique internationale, en s'orientant vers la libération des échanges, ne devienne un facteur contre la réalisation de l'égalité de salaire entre travailleurs et travailleuses. Les bas salaires féminins constituent des facteurs qui contribuent à abaisser le prix des marchandises dans certain pays, et ces pays se trouvent ainsi favorisés dans la concurrence internationale, alors que les pays qui appliquent l'égalité de rémunération entre hommes et femmes se trouvent handicapés et sont tentés d'aligner leur prix sur ceux des autres pays, en essayant d'abaisser les salaires féminins. L'attention de la Commission de la Condition de la femme, ainsi que de B. I. T., a été attirée sur cet argument dangereux, exprimé par les adversaires du principe de l'égalité des salaires, par une résolution qui leur a été adressée en mars 1955 et dans laquelle l'A. I. F. priait instamment ces deux organismes d'adresser un pressant appel aux gouvernements pour qu'ils ratifient immédiatement la Convention sur l'égalité de rémunération et la mettent en application. UNICEF Quelques mots sur nos relations avec l'UNICEF intéresseront surtout ceux de nos membres qui, dans leur pays, consacrent beaucoup de temps et d'énergie aux projets d'amélioration de la santé des enfants. L'A. I. F. sympathise entièrement avec ce travail très utile, fait sous les auspices des Nations Unies, mais, tout son temps étant déjà pris par les buts que lui assignent ses statuts, elle se voit obligée de limiter ses 88 relations avec l'UNICEF à un appui moral. Cependant le Comité a pu s'arranger avec l'une de ses représentantes à New-York pour qu'elle expédie les documents de l'UNICEF directement à celles de nos sociétés affiliées qui désirent être tenues au courant de l'activité de cette institution. Remerciements à nos représentantes auprès de l'ONU et de l'UNESCO L'A. I. F. se félicite de posséder une bonne représentation de 5 personnes qui donnent généreusement leur temps pour assister aux réunions de l'ONU à New-York et rendent au surplus d'inestimables services à l'A. I. F. aux Etats-Unis. C'est à son vif regret que le Comité, lors de sa réunion de février 1955, a dû accepter la démissionde Mme Charlotte Mahon, qui a fonctionné comme représentante en chef de l'A. I. F. depuis l'inauguration du système du statut consultatif, il y a environ huit ans. Melle Anne Guthrie, notre représentante depuis plusieurs années, a consenti volontiers à remplacer Mme Mahon en qualité de chef consultante, et elle assure ce travail en collaboration avec Melle Anne Lord Strauss, Mme Elisabeth Hitchcock, Mme Alvin E. Dodd, et Mme Grant Brown. Plusieurs réunions de l'ONU ont lieu à Genève et elles sont suivies par Mme Choisy, présidente de notre association suisse, et Melle Marie Ginsberg, assistées au besoin par des membres de l'association suisse. Enfin, le Comité et le Secrétariat prient les membres de l'A. I. F. de se joindre à eux pour exprimer leur profonde reconnaissance à toutes nos représentantes, y compris Me. Andrée Lehmann, notre représentante permanente, énergique et infatigable auprès de l'UNESCO, les membres de notre association qui lui aident, ainsi que les membres de notre association brésiliennes qui, au cours de l'exercice écouté, ont assisté à des réunions régionales de l'ONU et de l'UNESCO en qualité de représentantes de l'A. I. F. Communications et activités diverses De temps en temps, les sociétés affiliées demandent l'aide de l'A. I. F. pour des questions d'ordre national. Des communications de ce genre, à part celles qui sont mentionnées dans les rapports des présidentes des commissions permanentes, ont été expédiées au cours de l'exercice dans les cas suivants: Lorsque, en mars 1954, les féministes égyptiennes déclanchèrent une grève de la faim pour vote des femmes, nous 89 avons adressé un télégramme au Président du Gouvernement d'alors, le priant d'user de son influence et de son autorité pour appuyer et obtenir l'affranchissement des femmes, qui leur avait été promis depuis de nombreuses années. À la demande de l'Alliance des Femmes de Jordanie, nous avons adressé au Premier Ministre et au Parlement une pé- tition demandant que les femmes soient reconnues en qualité de citoyennes possédant les droits politiques, et que des sièges leur soient assurés au Parlement et dans les Conseils muni- cipaux. Notre association haïtienne a demandé à l'UNESCO d'en- voyer à Haïti une femme de langue française, à titre d'expert, afin d'aider à préparer les femmes haïtiennes qui devaient voter pour la première fois (en janvier 1955) et de leur fournir un matériel audio-visuel pour leur campagne de pro- pagande. L'A. I. F. a été priée d'appuyer cette requête, ce qu'elle a fait avec plaisir. L'UNESCO cependant a répondu que des raisons d'ordre budgétaire l'avait obligée à renoncer à envoyer un expert et qu'elle pouvait seulement fournir le matériel audio-visuel. À la demande de membres africains, l'A. I. F. a écrit une lettre en août 1954, à un certain nombre de Sociétés de mis- sions. Elle leur a exprimé sa reconnaissance pour leur travail et leur influence sur l'éducation, et nous avons ajouté qu'ayant appris que, dans certaines régions, les femmes et les jeunes filles n'ont pas les mêmes possibilités d'éducation que les hommes et les garçons, nous leur demandions de continuer eux-mêmes à s'occuper aussi de l'éducation des femmes et des jeunes filles. Notre association italienne nous a demandé, en mars 1955, d'appuyer la candidature d'une membre de son comité en même temps membre du Comité exécutif, Melle Corcos, à une course des N. U. destinée à un stage de six semaines au "Student Interne Programme", au Siège central de l'ONU à New-York, ce que nous avons fait. La candidature de Melle Corcos a été admise et nous sommes convaincues que ce stage lui permettra d'être utile à la fois à notre association et à l'ONU. En juin 1955, une des sectios de notre société affiliée alle- mande a invité un de nos membres danois à prendre part à son assemblée annuelle dont le thème était: "Régions des frontières européennes". Un membre a été choisi et, dans son rapport sur cette réunion à laquelle assistaient des femmes 90 de 5 à 6 pays voisins, elle a commenté très favorablement le programme et toute l'organisation de l'assemblée. Nous trans- mettons cette idée d'échanges à nos membres, car nous pen- sons que ce serait un moyen de développer la compréhen- sion internationale. Dans ce chapitre de communications et d'activités diverses, il y a lieu de mentionner encore une activité ayant eu pour but d'obtenir des fonds pour l'A. I. F. et en même temps d'en- courager la compréhension internationale et la collaboration entre notre société affiliée danoise et les sociétés affiliées d'autres pays, par l'intermédiaire du Secrétariat central. Nos sociétés se souviendront qu'immédiatement après le Nouvel- An 1955, nous avons prié chaque association de nous envoyer comme cadeau un objet caractéristique de leur pays valant environ une livre sterling. Les présents reçus devaient être envoyés à raison d'une à chacune des sections de la société danoise, chargée de l'utiliser comme lot d'une loterie de- vant rapporter une somme double ou triple de la valeur du cadeau. Ce plan a constitué un succès dépassant nos espérances. La moitié environ de nos sociétés, ainsi que des membres du Comité exécutif et nos consultantes, nous ont envoyé des paquets, dont quelques-uns contenaient plu- sieurs cadeaux, tous accompagnés d'une courte descrip- tion ou explication sur l'origine ou le symbole représenté. Nus avons expédié ces cadeaux à 35 sections danoises qui avaient accepté d'organiser des loteries, et l'A. I. F. a encaissé environ 100 livres sterling sur ces cadeaux reçus. Il nous en reste encore quelques-uns que les préparatifs du Congrès nous ont empêchées de réaliser. Mais nous le ferons après le Congrès. Questions soulevées par le rapport du Congrès de Naples Une représentante du Conseil international des Femmes avait proposé que l'A. I. F. examine l'opportunité de nommer une commission commune pour étudier la questions d'une fusion éventuelle de nos deux associations, et cette motion avait été adoptée par le Congrès. La proposition a été soign- eusement étudiée par une commission ad hoc de l'A. I. F. et par le Comité exécutif réuni au printemps1953. Après avoir examiné le pour et le contre, le Comité est arrivé à la conclusion qu'étant donné l'évolution rapide du monde d'au- jourd'hui, la cause des femmes a besoin plus que jamais du statut consultatif que les deux organisations possèdent auprès de l'ONU. Or la fusion ferait perdre l'un des deux statuts. Chacune des deux organisations a ses buts particuliers et, lorsque leurs points-de-vue coïncident, celui-ci a d'autant plus de poids qu'il est soutenu par deux organisations. D'un autre côté, le Comité pense qu'une collaboration serait profitable sur le plan national, dans les pays où les deux organisations ont des sociétés affiliées, et il tient à encourager l'idée une collaboration plus effective là où elle est possible. La motion sur la possibilité d'organiser une réunion de l'A. I. F. avec les représentantes arabes et israëliennes, afin de voir si l'A. I. F. pourrait contribuer à résoudre le problème très complexe des réfugiés arabes en Palestine, n'a abouti à aucun résultat. La Présidente de l'A. I. F. et la présidente de la Commission de la Paix et des relations humaines ont fait de leur mieux. Elles ont d'abord invité des membres des deux parties à prendre part à une discussion officieuse, mais seuls les membres de l'une des parties déclarèrent être en mesure d'accepter cette invitation. Comité de liaison des organisations féminines internationales Le Comité de liaison compte actuellement treize organisations féminines internationales. Il jouit du statut consultatif auprès du Conseil économique et social, de même que huit de ses membres, tandis que trois sont sur le registre. Ce n'est que lorsqu'il y a unanimité que le Comité soumet des résolutions ou communications à l'ECOSOC. L'A. I. F. est représentée aux réunions mensuelles de Londres par les membres de son Comité exécutif qui sont domiciliés dans cette ville. Les compte-rendus sont régulièrement envoyés au Siège central, et ces réunions donnent certainement des idées utiles aux membres qui les suivent et par eux au Siège central de l'A. I. F. Nos représentantes auprès de l'ONU assistent aux réunions du groupe de New-York, et les rapports qui nous parviennent montrent qu'elles ont su établir une collaboration officieuse fructueuse avec la Commission de la condition de la Femme et les autres institutions de l'ONU. Le Siège central ne peut faire rapport sur l'activité des trois autres groupes de Genève, de Paris et d'Australie, qui paraissent moins actifs que ceux de Londres et de New-York. Organisations de l'A. I. F. - Commissions permanentes Il a été décidé, au Congrès d'Amsterdam en 1949, que les sociétés affiliés désigneraient un membre chargé de s'occuper de chaque commission permanente et que les circulaires et questionnaires seraient adressés à ces membres. Il se trouve cependant que les sociétés affiliées oublièrent souvent 92 d'informer le Secrétariat des changements survenus dans les noms et adresses de leur correspondante à ces commissions, de sorte que la Comité exécutif a estimé plus pratique d'adresser les communications des présidentes des commissions aux présidentes des sociétés affiliées, à l'intention de leurs correspondantes dans la commission. Cette procédure a été suivie depuis un an environ, et le Comité serait heureux de savoir comment le système fonctionne. Secrétariat Depuis le début de la dernière guerre, le Secrétariat a vécu au jour le jour. Il n'a pas de budget pour couvrir les dépenses du Secrétariat et il ne possède pas le matériel nécessaire. A Copenhague, comme à Stockholm, la Présidente et la secrétaire ont prêté gracieusement le matériel indispensable comme machine à écrire, machine à ronéographier les documents, etc. A Stockholm, comme à Londres depuis la guerre, la présidente et éventuellement la secrétaire ont offert gratuitement le local nécessaire, dans leur maison. Installation Quand Marie Graff fut chargée du Secrétariat après le Congrès de Naples, le bureau fut installé dans son petit appartement. Cependant, au bout d'un certain temps, cet arrangement qui l'obligeait à avoir nui et jour autour d'elle tous les papiers et le travail inachevé se révèla moralement trop lourd à supporter à la longue, de sorte que le Conseil exécutif décida de lui allouer £ 5 par mois pour louer un bureau ailleurs. En juin 1954, nous obtinmes un petit bureau dans "la maison de la Femme" à Copenhague, malheureusement seulement pour les mois d'été. De l, le Secrétariat fut transféré chez la Présidente pour les dernières semaines, ce qui fut favorable au travail, mais pas au bien-être de la Présidente. Personnel L'expansion de l'Alliance a été telle que les trois années de l'exercice écoulé ont été très chargées pour la secrétaire, pour qui le jour ou la semaine de travail normal ont été l'exception plutôt que la règle. La secrétaire et la Présidente étaient toutes deux nouvelles dans le travail de l'Alliance et, comme la trésorière et la secrétaire honoraire, ni aucun mem- 93 bre du Comité exécutif, n'habitaient leur ville ou même leur pays, cela rendit le travail encore plus difficile que cela n'aurait été le cas dans d'autres circonstances. Cependant il y a eu progrès dans toute l'organisation. En octobre 1954, le Comité exécutif décida de donner à la secrétaire une assistance à plein temps, afin de lui aider pour le Casinader de Ceylan, fut choisie pour ce poste et pourtant, les deux n'auraient pas pu accomplir tout le travail si la Présidente n'avait pu, depuis le début de son mandat, consacrer presque toutes ses heures de loisir et, depuis janvier 1955, tout son temps au travail du Secrétariat. Conclusions: "Nous sommes si peu nombreuses et il y a tant de travail à faire", a dit une fois la présidente honoraire, Mme Corbett Ashby. Il est vrai que les présidentes de nos commissions permanentes et les membres chargés de mandats ont beaucoup contribué aux résultats obtenus durant les trois dernières années. Mais l'auteur de ce rapport a la profonde conviction qu'ayant vécu au jour le jour depuis dix ans pour réorganiser l'Alliance et ses activités, il est temps maintenant, pour le Congrès et pour le Comité exécutif, d'examiner la possibilité d'organiser un Bureau central proprement dit, avec une secrétaire internationale compétente, responsable de l'organisation du Secrétariat, et de trouver les fonds nécessaires pour le travail de ce Secrétariat. Si dévoué que l'on soit à l'A. I. F. et à la cause féministe, les charges imposées par les conditions indiquées ci-dessus, sont trop lourdes pour une présidentes et sa secrétaire. Il s'est certainement produit un changement de climat dans l'opinion publique en faveur des femmes et de l'égalité de leurs droits depuis la guerre. L'A. I. F. qui est la seule organisation spécialisée dans la lutte pour l'égalité des femmes, en tant que femmes, a la grande responsabilité d'utiliser ce climat favorable. L'A. I. F. est aussi considérée de plus en femmes qui se fondent dans les pays extra-européens, comme l'organisation à laquelle elles désirent unir leurs forces pour obtenir des droits égaux dans la législation, et pour faire appliquer les droits égaux qu'elles viennent d'acquérir avec les hommes. L'A. I. F. est aussi appréciée par les organismes internationaux pour son travail en matière d'éducation, conformément 94 à son programme, et elle a obtenu des subsides pour ses projets. Mais il faut aussi faire observer à nos membres que le travail du Secrétariat augmente énormément, lorsque ces plans de travail, pour lesquels nous recevons des subsides, doivent être organisés entièrement ou partiellement par le Secrétariat. A l'expiration de son premier demi-siècle, l'A. I. F. et ses sociétés nationales peuvent sans crainte jeter un regard en arrière sur ces cinquante années d'activité. Bien des choses ont été accomplies mais, avec l'éveil des peuples et par conséquent aussi des femmes, dans de vastes régions économiquement moins développées, notre but doit se tourner vers l'avenir, et nous avons besoins de la solidarité et de l'appui - non seulement moral, mais aussi financier - de toutes nos sociétés affiliées, anciennes et nouvelles, pour les années à venir qui nécessiteront une grande activité ESTER GRAFF Présidente RAPPORT DE LA TRESORIERE J'ai l'honneur de présenter les comptes pour la période des trois années 1952-1954. Le seizième Congrès tenu à Naples (Italie), en 1952, a été financé en partie par une somme de £ 267.9.9 prise sur les fond de l'Alliance aux Etats Unis, en partie par des dons faits en faveur du Congrès et par les cotisations de Congrès versées par les déléguées. Le sold net du Congrès à savoir £ 95.11.8, a pu être versé aux comptes ordinaires de 1952 pour être employé, en 1953, au règlement des frais d'impression du Rapport du Congrès. Le Congrès de Naples a décidé d'élever la contribution annuelle des Associations affiliées de 5 £ à 10 £ au minimum. De grands efforts on été faits pour encaisser les cotisations des membres individuels, les souscriptions des abonnés, ainsi que les contributions annuelles des associations affiliées. Les résultats - comme les chiffres le montrent - ne sont pas des meilleurs. Nous devons encore insister auprès des associations affiliées pour qu'elles montrent en pratique l'intérêt qu'elles portent au travail international entrepris par l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes. 95 En Angleterre, deux anciennes amies ont légué à l'A. I. F. par testament des sommes d'argent considérables en 1953 et 1954. Nous devons une grande reconnaissance à ces donatrices défuntes ainsi qu'à tous les autres aimables amis qui, par leurs dons, ont aidé l'Alliance à continuer son activité en faveur des droits des femmes. Les dépenses de l'A. I. F. sont extrèment modestes, grâce à la grande économie réalisée par le Secrétariat, et grâce à toutes les collaboratrices qui paient toujours leurs propres frais. Les contributions fixées pour les associations et les membres sont loin de couvrir les frais généraux, même si tout le monde les réglait à temps. Nous tenons donc à adresser un pressant appel à tous nos amis pour qu'ils nous prêtent leur assistance financière afin de permettre à l'A. L. F. de continuer à accomplir sa tâche importante à l'avenir. Oslo, Norvège, Avril 1955 Eva Kolstad. Trésorière honoraire. NOUVELLES FEMINISTES INTERNATIONALES Il est regrettable que l'appui donné au Jornal Mensuel de l'Alliance internationale des femmes soit si inégal parmi les sociétés affiliées à l'A. L. F. C'est problabement en partie dû à la langue dans laquelle le journal paraît; et l'on s'attend à voir plus de souscriptions au Royaume Uni que dans dáutres pays. Cependant lorsque des efforts réels ont été faits comme au Danemark, en Suède et an Suisse par nos sociétés affiliées le résultat a été excellent. Le journal donne des nouvelles du mouvement féministe dans le monde entier et on ne saurait trouver nulle part autre les informations qui y sont contenues. La dépense occasionée par l'impression des pages françaises est grande, et malheureusement il n'y a qu'une demi-douzaine de souscriptions en France et il n'y a que peu de lecteurs dans les pays dont la seconde langue est le français. Une question se pose, combien de temps l'Alliance pourra-t-elle continuer cette dépense? Nous prions donc nos sociétés de langue française de faire un réel effort pour obtenir des lecteurs. 96 Abore: Evening Party at the home of Mrs. Deraniyagala, President of the host society. Below: The U. N. stall at the Exhibition of Visual Aids to Education. To the right Dr. Subandrio, Indonesia; to the left Begum Ahmed, Pakistan. Les deux rédactrices donnent leurs services gratuitement, et nous dépendons de nos amies pour bien des articles, car nous ne pouvons pas payer pour d'autres articles. Nous avons réduit les dépenses au minimum. Le Journal est pourtant le seul lien constant entre le Bureau central, les sociétés et les membres individuels de tous les pays. Il serait difficile de garder un esprit commun pendant les trois ans qui séparent un Congrès d'un autre Congrès, car le journal atteint plus de personnes que ne sauraient le faire les lettres du Bureau Central, de plus le Journal offre une source d'information très appréciable, pour les journeaux féministes des autres pays. Nous vous prions donc instamment de faire votre possible pour que chaque lectrice trouve une nouvelle ou plusieurs lectrices; payant £ 1.0.0. par an, pour recevoir le bénéfice du journal, et nous aider à continuer de publier le Journal sans trop charger le budget de l'Alliance. M. I. Corbett Ashby N. Spiller Rédactrices des ,,N. F. I.". EGALITE DES DROITS CIVILS ET POLITIQUES Rapport de la commission Les résultats du travail méthodique, continu et persévérant de cette Commission, depuis sa fondation, sont apparus clairement au cours de ces trois dernières années. Toutes les résolutions, destinées à l'ONU, présentées par cette Commission au Congrès de Naples de 1952 et adoptées par lui, ont été ronéographiées et officiellement distribuées aux différentes instances et Commissions compétentes de l'ONU, en 1952 et 1953. Plusieurs d'entre elles on été entendues: En 1954, l'ONU a adopté et ouvert à la ratification des Etats la Convention sur les droits politiques de la femme, en vertu de laquelle les hommes et les femmes doivent avoir les mêmes droits d'electorat et d'éligibilité et les droits égaux d'accéder à tous les postes et fonctions publiques. Cette Convention est entrée en vigueur le Juillet 1954. Mais le succès le plus important, bien que partiel encore, remporté par l'Alliance, grâce au travail de cette Commission, 7 97 est relatif à la mise en application de l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme. Depuis l'adoption par l'Assemblée Générale de l'ONU, en 1948, de la Déclaration et la mission donné à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme de rédiger le Pacte d'application de cette Déclaration, seule notre Alliance, parmi toutes les Associations Féminines, a adressé chaque année des résolutions tant à l'ECOSOC qu'à la Commission de la Condition de la Femme et à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme, pour demander que l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration figure dans le Pacte d'application. Nous rappellons que cet Art. 16 dispose notamment que : "l'homme et la femme ont des droits égaux à l'égard du marriage, durant le mariage et lors de sa dissolution" et qu'au cours des prmières années consacrées à la rédaction du Pacte, la Commission des Droits de l'Homme n'envisageait pas d'inclure cet article dans le Pacte. Or, répondant enfin à notre appel, le 19 Mars 1953, la 7ème session de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme demandait au Conseil Economique et Social de prendre une résolution tendant à l'inclusion de l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration dans le Pacte d'application, et cette résolution était transmise par le Secrétaire Général de l'ONU à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme, le 7 Avril 1953. Au cours de sa 9ème session de 1953, la Commission des Droits de l'Homme a adopté un Art. 22 du projet de Pacte d'application, dont l'alinéa 4 est ainsi conçu : "la législation des Etats parties au présent Pacte sera orientée vers l'égalité de droits et de responsabilités des époux, au regard du mariage, durant le mariage et lors de sa dissolution". Notre Commission considérât que l'inclusion de l'Art. 16 dans le Pacte, qu'elle avait demandée, ne constituait, en vertu de la rédaction de l'Art. 22 qui la consacrait, qu'un progrès très partiel , qui présentait même de réels dangers. En effet, la formule "la législation des Etats sera orientée vers . . ." ne fait aucune obligation actuelle aux Etats de mettre leur législation en harmonie avec l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration, qu'ils ont votés, et leur permet ainsi de n'assurer cette égalité qu'à une échéance très incertaine et peut-être très éloignée. Le 10 Février 1954, l'Alliance adressât à l'ECOSOC, à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme et à la Commission de la Condition de la Femme une résolution de notre Commission qui a été ronéographiée et distribuée officiellement sous la référence : 10 Mars, E/CN.6/NGO/19. 98 Dans ce document, l'Alliance demandait à la Commission de la Condition de la Femme d'adresser uen protestation formelle au Conseil Economique et Social et à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme contre la rédaction de l'Art. 22 alinéa 4 du projet de Pacte qui est contraire à la Déclaration, soulignant qui si la rédaction actuelle de cet Art. 22 était maintenue l'égalité des droits des époux, proclamé par l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration ne serait pas appliquée et qu'ainsi l'Art. 22 ne fait pas une juste application de la Déclaration, privant une large proportion de l'humanité : les femmes mariées, des droits qui leur ont été formellement reconnus par la Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme. La Commission de la Condition de la Femme, au cours de sa 8ème session de 1954, a donné entière satisfaction à notre résolution : elle a voté une recommandation au Conseil Economique et Social d'adopter la résolution suivante : Considérant que le paragraphe 4 de l'Art. 22 du projet de Pacte relatif aux droits civils et politiques ne prévoit pas l'égalité de droit des époux et se borne à disposer que la législation des Etats parties sera orientée vers cette égalité de droits, Persuadé que cette disposition ne contient pas le principe éconcé au paragraphe 1 de l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme, selon lequel les époux "ont des droits égaux au regard du mariage, durant le mariage et lors de sa dissolution", Décide de remplacer la première phrase du paraagraphe 4 de l'Art. 22 du projet de Pacte relatif aux droits civils et politiques par le texte suivant : "L'Homme et la femme ont des droits et responsabilités égaux, au regard du mariage, durant le mariage et lors de sa dissolution". L'ECOSOC a transmis cette résolution à la 3ème Commission de la 9ème Assemblée Générale des Nations Unies qui, lors de sa discussion sur le projet de Pacte, n'en a pas tenu compte. La Commission de l'égalité des Droits Civils et Politiques de l'Alliance a présenté et fait adopter par le Comité qui s'est tenu à Paris du 5 au 7 Février 1955, une nouvelle résolution adressée à la Commission de la Condition de la Femme de l'ONU, lui demandant notamment de poursuivre son action en renouvelant avec plus de fermeté et de précisions encore, s'il était possible, la résolution prise par elle à sa dernière session 7* 99 et de la transmettre, non seulement à l'ECOSOC mais encore à la Commission des Droits de l'Homme. Ainsi, notre Commission fait poursuivre à l'Alliance une lutte difficile pour que l'égalité des droits des époux devienne un principe incontesté et soit mis en application dans les délais les plus brefs possible. Les premiers résultats obtenus sont pour elle un encouragement et un avertissement de ne pas relâcher ses efforts. Un autre progrès, réalisé dans le même sens, consiste dans la résolution adoptée, le 20 Mars 1953, par la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, demandant à l'ECOSOC de rencommander aux Gouvernements: A. de prendre toutes mesures en leur pouvoir pour assurer, dans les affaires familiales, l'égalité des droits et devoirs du mari et de la femme l'entière capacité juridique, le droit de travailler en dehors du foyer, ainsi que le droit à l'acquisition, à l'administration, à la jouissance et à l'aliénation de biens, dans des conditions d'égalité avec le mari. Les autres principaux travaux accomplis par la Commission de l'égalité des Droits Civils et Politiques, au cours de ces 3 dernières années sont les suivants: Dans le dernier trimestre de 1952, nous avons répondu à une enquête de l'ONU sur les femmes employées dans les services publics et exerçant des fonctions publiques; nos réponses ont été utilisées dans le rapport sur cette question destiné à la Commission de la Condition de la Femme. Le 19 Mai 1954, la Présidente de cette Commission demandait à ses membres de répondre à la question qui avait été posée par le Secrétaire Général de l'ONU, ainsi formulée: Quelles sont les suggestions que l'Alliance pourrait faire relativement aux moyens qui permettraient d'assurer et de rendre effective l'égalité politique de le femme dans les pays auxquels apparetiennent ses Associations affiliées. Elle leur soulignait, en même temps, l'intérêt qu'il y avait pour elle à agir auprès de leurs Gouvernements pour qu'ils ratifient d'urgence la Convention sur les Droits Politiques, leur rappellant que cette Convention ne prévoit pas seulement le droit de vote et d'éligibilité, mais encore l'accès à tous les emplois et fonctions publiques et que, dans de très nombreux pays où l'égalité politique est réalisée, les femmes n'ont pas encore accès à toutes les fonctions publiques dans les mêmes conditions que les hommes. 100 Le 30 Novembre 1954, j'ai adressé aux membres de cette Commission une circulaire pour leur faire connaître une résolution de la 8ème session 1954 de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, que l'ONU nous demandait de mettre en oeuvre. Cette résolution demandait aux Organisations non gouvernementales de continuer à encourager la développement de l'éducation des femmes dans le domaine du civisme, et indiquait différents moyens pour atteindre ce but. Ma circulaire a été publiée en anglais et en français dans les "Nouvelles Féministes Internationales". Le 13 Janvier 1955,j'ai fait part aux membres de cette Commission de l'intention de l'Alliance de participer à la Conférence des ONG à Genève (Avril 1955) sur l'étude des méthodes à adopter pour lutter contre les mesures discriminatoires, et d'y présenter un rapport. Je leur demandais de répondre au questionnaire que je leur envoyais et qui était relatif aux meilleurs moyens qui leur semblaient devoir être employés dans leurs pays pour combattre leur mesures discriminatoires relativement au sexe. J'ai transmis toutes les réponses reçues à l'ONU. Une accusé de réception a été adressé à l'Alliance avec l'assurance que nos réponses figureraient dans le rapport qui serait distribué à la Conférence de Genève. Enfin, le 8 Avril 1955, la Présidente de cette Commission a adressé à ses membres de: Suède, Norvège, Danemark, Japon, Israel, Italie, Royaume-Uni, Australie, Grèce, Pakistan, pays dans lesquels l'égalité des droit des époux est presque realisée, une communication leur demande de modification de l'Art. 22 du Pacte assurant sa conformité avec l'Art. 16 de la Déclaration. Si l'ensemble de ce rapport fait apparaître des résultats substantiels acquis et un travail sérieux accompli, il n'est cependant pas pleinement satisfaisant. La question de l'égalité des droits des époux et du meilleur régime matrimonial susceptible de l'assurer, que l'assurer, que nous nous étions proposés d'étudier, n'a pu trouver de solution au cours de cet exercice, les réponses reçues par la Présidente n'ayant pas été suffisamment nombreuses. Nous ne saurions trop insister, en terminant, auprès de nos collègues, pour qu'elles s'attachent au cours des années qui vont venir à l'étude de cette question qui est capitale pour l'émancipation définitive de la femme dans la grande majorité des pays. Nous ne doutons pas que leur dévouement à cette cause saura nous entendre. Andrée Lehman. 101 EGALITE DE DROITS ECONOMIQUES Rapport de la Commission Pendant les trois années se sont écoulées, la Commission des droits économiques a basé son activité sur les quatre résolutions adoptées par le Congrès de Naples, en 1952. Nos sociétés nationales ont répondu avec empressement aux questionnaire sur le travail qu'elles ont accompli dans le domaine de chacune des résolutions, répareront cette omission en me faisant parvenir leurs réponses. Résolution 1: Ratification et application de la Convention sur l'Egalité de rémunération adoptée par le BIT en 1951. Neuf pays ont ratifié la convention jusqu'ici: l'Autruche, la Belgique, Cuba, la République Dominicaine, la France, le Mexique, les Philippines, la Pologne et la Yougoslavie; deux de ces pays seulement sont membres de l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, à savoir la France et les Philippines. D'après les rapports de l'ONU, on peut espérer que les gouvernements du Brésil, de l'Italie, et des Pays-Bas ratifieront la Convention prochainement. Dans le Royaume Uni, le gouvernement ayant admis le principe de l'égalité de rémunération, a commencé à l'appliquer, et c'est ainsi que les effets indirects de cette acceptation s'étendront à d'autres genres de travaux, surtout à l'enseignement. Dans les Services publics, l'égalité de rémunération est appliquée; ainsi les autorités locales ont reconnu le principe, encourageant ainsi les industriels et les autres employeurs à en faire autant. Dans certain pays, comme la Suède, le Danemark et l'Allemagne, les conditions de travail sont établies par des contrats collectifs, et le gouvernement hésite à intervenir dans la liberté de ces contrats; mais on estime que, dans ces cas, lorsque les organisations syndicales et les employés sont en faveur de l'égalité de salaire, il faut qu'ils exercent une pression sur les groupes d'employeurs. Dans les pays industriellement moins développés, comme Ceylan par exemple, le problème se présente tout différemment. L'égalité de rémunération existe dans tous les emplois supérieurs. Pour le travail manuel, la différence, dans le salaire 102 minimum, est basé sur la différence de rendement entre les ouvriers et les ouvrières, mais il est difficile de savoir se ce fait est basé sur des statistiques ou s'il s'agit d'une rationalisation d'un état de choses établi. Cependant, il est prouvé que les femmes gagnent plus que les hommes en cas de travail payé à l'heure ou à la pièce, par exemple pour la cueillette du thé ou la récolte de caoutchouc. La division traditionnelle du travail entraîne moins de fatique pour la travailleuse qu'on ne le suppose généralement, car ce sont les tâches industrielles les moins dures qui lui sont assignées. Quoi qu'il en soit, pour plusieurs catégories de travaux, la question des salaires est entre les mains d'une Commission des salaires, composée de représentants des employeurs, des employés et du gouvernement. Nos associations doivent insister pour que les femmes soient nommés dans ces Commissions, suivant en cela l'exemple de notre association de Ceylan qui a obtenu la nomination d'une femme dans la Commission des salaires de l'industrie des allumettess. Au point-de-vue international, on commence à voir les dangers de l'inégalité des salaires. Ainsi que cela a été souligné par notre association française (voir la recommandation III de l'A. I. F. à la Commission de la condition de la femme et au BIT), dans les pays ou l'égalité des salaires est appliquée ou dans ceux qui cherchent à l'introduire, on craint le préjudice causé par la concurrence des pays dont les frais de production sont moins élevés par le fait qu'ils utilisent la main-d'oeuvre bon marché des travailleuses. Cette crainte se manifeste surtout là où existe du chômage. Il est nécessaire que nos organisations ses rendent compte de ce danger, et que leur activité tende vers l'application de l'égalité de rémunération, soit par conséquent vers une hausse des prix des marchandises, plutôt que vers une baisse de ces prix qui serait acquise en raison de la concurrence mondiale, mais au prix d'une discrimination au préjudice des femmes. L'égalité des salaires pour un travail de valeur égale ne peut être réalisée que dans le cas où les femmes ont les mêmes qualifications que les hommes pour le travail en question. Il a été établi que le 70 % ou plus des femmes salariées sont concentrées dans quelques catégories de travaux seulement; et la question qui se pose est de savoir si les femmes reçoivent un salaire plus bas parce qu'elles sont des femmes, ou parce que le classement des emplois évalue ces emplois à ce niveau de salaire. Il est nécessaire que nous fassions tous nos efforts pour encourager les femmes et les jeunes filles de devenir des travailleuses qualifiées en préparant un diplôme professionnel, 103 quel que soit le domaine dans lequel elles désirent travailler. Nous sommes ainsi amenées à notre deuxème résolution que est étroitemnet liée a première. Résolution II: Egalité dans le domaine de l'orientation et de la formation professionnelle ainsi que pour les stages de perfectionnement. Notre questionnaire sur cette résolution a révélé plusieurs pointes intéressantes et noveaux. La formation professionnelle pour toutes les filles des dernières classes d'écoles devrait constituer une partie importante du programme de l'école. Il est urgent que les organisations de femmes et éventuellement d'autres institutions - comme les Bureaux féminis - étudient l'offre et la demande de travail dans les différents domaines et dirigent les femmes, soit vers de nouveaux domaines d'emplois, soit vers ceux où il y a un sous-emploi, En France, par exemple, le chômage est sensible dans la profession de modiste, et néanmoins l'on encourage des jeunes filles à se former pour cette profession; le pourcentage de chômage a pris des proportions si alarmantes que des femmes membres du Parlement ont attire l'attention sur ce fait. Notre société des Pays-Bas a organisé des séances d'orientation professionnelle pour les jeunes filles des dernières classes d'école, et elle a publié une brochure sur les conditions et les possibilités des différentes professions. On offre gratuitement un exemplaire de cette brochure à toutes les femmes âgées de vingt-trois ans. Un fait déconcertant résulte des résultes des réponses à notre questionnaire, c'est que les femmes, dans leur majorité, sont prêtes à accepter des emplois peu payés, sans manifester l'espoir ou le désir d'arriver aux postes supérieurs de leur profession. Les statistiques montrent que, bien que les femmes aient envahi ces dernières années de mombreuses professions, il n'y en a que très peu qui arrivent à des pōstes supérieurs, ce qui peut ètre dû également au manque de facilités qui leur sont accordées pour se perfectionner en vue d'un avancement. Il est done essentiel de persuader les femmes de l'importance des cours de perfectionnement et de leur assurer la possibilité de suivre ces cours, sans perte de gain. C'est là un domaine où les organisations féminines doivent agir, en veillant à ce que les autorités, et éventuellement les employeurs, organisent des cours de ce genre pour les femmes. Parallèlement à ces cours de perfectionnement, on estime utile d'organiser des cours de formation ou de réadaption 104 pour les travailleuses âgées qui, pour des raisons de famille, n'ont jamais traveillé, ou ont cessé de travailler en dehors du foyer. Résolution III: Travail á temps partiel. A la demande de Conseil économique et social, la commission de l'égalité des droits économiques a rédigé un rapport sur l'usage d'échelles de travail á temps partiel, basé sur les réponses aux questionnaires envoyés à nos sociétés affiliées. Avant que le travail à temps partiel puisse êntre incorporé dans l'économie d'un pays, il faut que ce travail soit reconnucomme une catégorie de travail offerte ou régulièrement exercée en dehors du foyer, mais pour un nombre d'heures moins élevé que le nombre d'heures fixé pour le travail à plein temps, et payé à des taux normaux. La demande de travail á temps partiel existe dans la plupart des pays, et cette demande augmente toujours, surtout dans les pays industriellement avancés, où les femmes et les jeunes filles obtiennent l'égalité d'accès à la formation professionnelle et à l'emploi. Le travail á temps partiel devient aussi plus important avec l'amélioration des services sociaux et avec la réadaptation nécessitée par la prolongation de la vie. C'est ainsi que nous trouvons des travailleurs ayant des responsabilités familiales, des handicapés physiquement et des travailleurs âgés que créent une demande de travail à temps partiel. L'organisation de ce travail sert, en Grande Bretagne, à remédier au manque de main-d'oeuvre; en Italie et dans les Philippines, il sert á résoudre le probléme de chômage; notre societé française est d'un avis opposé et affirme que, lá oú le chômage existe, le travail à temps partiel tendra à êntre supprimé ou, s'il est organisé, il risquera d'être rétribué á un taux inférieur. les pays industriellement moins développés estiment aussi que les grandes réserves de main d'oeuvre et le chômage qui en est la conséquence, comme c'est la vas á Ceylan, excluent l'organisation du travail à temps partiel, et que ce genre de travail n'est possible que dans l'agriculture, pour les travaux saisonniers. La plupart des pays n'ont pas de statistiques sur la desmande, l'offre et les possibilités de travail à temps partiel, et nous avons la conviction que ce problème, comme d'autres encore que ont trait à l'emploi de femmes, doivent être résolus par des moyens scientifiques aussi bien que pratiques. C'est pour cette raison que nous préconisons la création des bureaux que font l'objet de la résolution IV. 105 quel que soit le domaine dans lequel elles désirent travailler. Nous sommes ainsi amenées à notre deuxième résolution qui est étroitement liée à la première. Rèsolution II: Egalité dans le domaine de l'orientation et de la formation professionnelle ainsi que pour les stages de perfectionnement. Notre questionnaire sur cette résolution a révélé plusieurs points intéressants et noveaux. La formation professionnelle pour toutes les filles des dernières classes d'écoles devrait constituer une partie importante du programme de l'école. Il est urgent que les organisations de femmes et éventuellement d'autres institutions - comme les Bureaux féminins - étudient l'offre et la demande de travail dans les différents domaines et dirigent les femmes, soit vers de nouveaux domaines d'emplois, soit vers ceux où il y a un sous-emploi. En France, par exemple, le chômage est sensible dans la profession de modiste, et néanmoins l'on encourage des jeunes filles à se former pour cette profession; le pourcentage de chômage a pris des proportions si alarmantes que des femmes membres du Parlement ont attire l'attention sur ce fait. Notre société des Pays-Bas a organisé des séances d'orientation professionnelle pour les jeunes filles des dernières classes d'école, et elle a publié une brochure sur les conditions et les possibilités des différentes professions. On offre gratuitemenr un exemplaire de cette brochure à toutes les femmes agées de vingt-trois ans. Un fait déconcertant résulte des réponses à notre questionnaires, c'est que les femmes, dans leur pajorité, sont prêtes à accepter des emplois peu payés, sans manifester l'espoir ou le désir d'arriver aux postes supérieurs de leur profession. Les statistiques montrent que, bien que les femmes aient envahi ces dernières années de mombreuses professions, il n'y en a que très peu qui arrivent à des postes supérieurs, ce qui peut être dû également au manque de facilités qui leur sont accordées pour se perfectionner en vue d'un avancement. Il est donc essentiel de persuader les femmes de l'importance des cours de perfectionnement et de leur assurer la possibilité de suivre ces cours, sans perte de gain. C'est là un domaine où les organisations féminines doivent agir, en veillant à ce que les autorités, et éventuellement les employeurs, organisent des cours de ce genre pour les femmes. Parallèlement à ces cours de perfectionnement, on estime utile d'organiser des cours de formation ou de réadaption 104 pour les travailleuses âgées qui, pour des raisons de famille, n'ont jamais travaillé, ou ont cessé de travailler en dehors du foyer. Résolution III: Travail à temps partiel. A la demande du Conseil économique et social, la commission de l'égalité des droits économiques a rédigé un rapport sur l'usage d'échelles de travail à temps partiel, basé sur les réponses aux questionnaires envoyés à nos sociétés affiliées. avant que le travail partiel puisse être incorporé dans l'économie d'un pays, il faut que ce travail qoint reconnu comme une catégorie de travail offerte ou régulièrement exercée en dehors du foyer, mais pour un nombre d'heures moins élevé que le nombre d'heures fixé pour le trabail à plein temps, et payé à des taux normaux. Le demande de travail à temps partiel existe dans la plupart des pays, et cette demande augmente toujours, surtout dans les pays industriellement avancés où les femmes et les jeunes filles obtiennent l'égalité d'accès à la formation professionnelle et à l'emploi. Le travail à temps partiel devient aussi plus important avec l'amélioration des services sociaux et avec la réadaptation nécessité par la prolongation de la vie. C'est ainsi que nous trouvons des travailleurs ayant des responsabilités familiales, des handicapés physiquement et des travailleurs âgés qui créent une demande de travail à temps partiel. L'organisation de ce travail sert, en Grande Bretagne, à remédier au manque de main-d'oeuvre; en Italie et dans les Philippines, il sert à résoudre le problème du chômage; notre société française est d'un avis opposé et affirme que, là où le chômage existe, le travail à temps partiel tendra à être supprimé ou, s'il est organisé, il risquera d'être rétribué à un taux inférieur. Les pays industriellement moins développés estiment aussi que les grandes réserves de main d'oeuvre et le chômage qui en est la conséquence, comme c'est ke cas à Ceylan, excluent l'organisation du travail à temps partiel, et que ce genre de travail n'est possible que dans l'agriculture, pour les travaux saisonniers. La plupart des pays n'ont pas de statistiques sur la demande, l'offre et les possibilités de travail à temps partiel, et nous avons la conviction que ce problème, comme d'autres encore qui ont trait à l'emploi de femmes, doivent être résolus par des moyens scientifiques aussi bien que pratiques. C'est pour cette raison que nous préconisons la création des bureaux qui font l'objet de la résolution IV. 105 Résolution IV: Etablissement de Bureaux féminins (Women's bureaux) Nous pensons que l'établissement de Bureaux féminins est une nécessité vitale pour nos services s'occupant des questions de travail. Dans les pays plus développés industriellement, comme la Grande Brétagne et la Suè, où il existe déjà des syndicats professionnels et l'autres organisations qui veillent au bien-être des travailleuses, les Bureaux féminins seraient superflus. Il est intéressant de noter que ce sont les pays très avancés, au point-de-vue industriel, comme les Etats-Unis d'Amérique, et les pays très peu développés industriellement de l'Orient, qui désirent tous deux l'établissement de Bureaux L'Australie, Ceylan, et le Japon voudraient que ces Bureaux fassent partie de l'organisation gouvernementale, tandis que d'autres pays, comme le Danemark, préféreraient qu'ils soient administrés par des institutions privées. Quel que soit le modèle de Bureau désiré, nous avons besoin pour l'établir de l'assistance d'experts, et nous avons eu la très grande chance de pouvoirs nous assurer la présence à notre Congrès de Melle Frieda Miller, ancien chef du Bureau féminin de Washington. Melle Miller s'est gracieusement mise à la disposition des déléguées pour leur donner des renseignements et il sera possible de lui demander une consultation en prenant rendez-vous. Elle a également pu obtenir pour nous un certain nombre de publications et d'études sur les problèmes des femmes dans le domaine du travail, afin qu'elles soient distribuées gratuitement ou prêtées aux déléguées du Congrès. Pendant l'exercice écoulé, qui s'est étendu sur trois ans, nous avons pu utiliser les renseignements reçus des nos sociétés sur les problèmes du travail concernant les femmes, en les incorporant dans les comptes rendus que nous présentons de temps en temps à l'ONU et éventuellement à ses institutions spécialisées. Des copies en ont été incorporées dans les rapports suivants qu'on peut se procurer dans les bibliothèques des N.U.: 1.- L'utilisation du travail à temps partiel par les travailleurs et les travailleuses, en particulier par les femmes qui ont des responsabilités familiales, dans les régions où les travail à temps partiel est particulièrement important. (Document E/CN. 6/213). 2.- Méthodes qui se sont révelées utiles dans les différents pays pour créer dans l'opinion publique un climat favorable à la nécessité d'introduire l'égalité de rémunération entre les hommes et les femmes. (Document E/CN. 6/263) 3.- Exposé sur l'égalité des salaires et ses répercussions sur les échanges internationaux. 4.- Exposé de notre représentante, Mme Mahon, présenté à la Commission de la condition de la femme, approuvant la recommandation de cette Commission sur l'assistance technique comme moyen d'améliorer la condition de la femme. 5.- Etude sur l'assistance technique faite par un pays qui a reçu cette assistance - le Pakistan - et un pays qui l'a fournie - le Danemark. 6. - L'action sociale que nos associations ont trouvée particulièrement efficace ou inefficace dans la lutte contre les préjugés et les discriminations basées sur le sexe. Il reste encore beaucoup de travail à faire dans ce domaine, et nous espérons que nos commissions nationales voudront bien continuer à nous aider avec le même empressement que pendant les années passées, en nous préoccupent. Nous exprimons l'espoir que celles de nos associations qui n'ont pas encore pu nous aider pourront peut-être le faire au cours des trois prochaines années. Je tiens enfin à faire un sérieux appel à toutes nos sociétés pour qu'elles aident à utiliser les nouvelles méthodes d'assistance technique offertes si généreusement, afin d'alléger, par ce moyen, les difficultés que rencontrent les femmes dans le domaine du travail. Laure Casinader. Egalite D'Education Rapport de la Commission En présentant ce rapport au Congrès, je désire tout d'abord exprimer ma reconnaissance pour le travail accompli par Mme Andrée Lehmann, notre représentante permanente auprès de l'UNESCO. Elle a été d'un dévouement sans limite, soit en assistant à toutes les conférences, soit en même temps en gardant un contact étroit les membres du Secrétariat de l'UNESCO. L'UNESCO ainsi que la Commission de la Condition de la femme demandent de plus en plus des renseignements à l'Alliance sur les questions d'Education. Mme Mahon notre consultante à New-York, a attiré notre attention sur une résolution votée par l'ECOSOC, E/2571 para 76, dans laquelle cette institution faisait appel à la collaboration des Organisations non-gouvernementales pour l'Education des femmes dans différents pas. En conséquence, bien que vous ayez pu croire que les questionnaires et les lettres envoyées par notre commission ne se rapportaien qu'indirectement au travail de votre société, je tiens à vous dire que tous les renseignements reçus par moi, ou par la rédactrice des "Nouvelles Féministes Internationales", sur un aspect quelconque de l'Education dans votre pays ont été utiles à la Commission. En novembre 1952, l'UNESCO organisa une réunion des ONG, à laguelle la Présidente et Mme Lehmann représentèrent l'Alliance. Après cette réunion, un questionnaire a été envoyé à toutes nos sociétés, pour leur demander de se renseigner auprès de leur "Commission Nationale de l'UNESCO" afin de savoir si leur gouvernement avait l'intention de demander une Assistance Technique et, dans ce cas, quelle sorte d'Assistane Technique était désirée. De plus, nous avons prié nos sociétés de rappeler à leur Commission Nationale de l'UNESCO de ne pas oublier les femmes dans leurs plans. Le Pakistan répondit à cette question et, en soumettant le rapport de l'Alliance à la 8ème session de la Commission de la Condition de la femme, Mme Mahon indiqua tout spécialement le besoin d'Ecoles professionnelles et de centres d'apprentissage pour les femmes, qui sont du ressort de l'Assistance Techniqe. C'est pourquoi je voudrais prier nos sociétés de se souvenir de cela et d'insister pour que leur gouvernement présente des demandes d'Assistance Technique, cas plus les pays feront appel à cette Assistance, plus les fonds alloués dans ce but par l'Agence centrale augmenteront. L'Alliance a été représentée par Mme Lehmann, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, Mme Bush, Mme Bernard et Mme Holm à la Conférence des ONG convoquée par l'UNESCO à Paris en février 1954. Les participants à la Conférence furent divisés en 5 groupes chargés d'étudier les sujets suivants: l'Assistance de base ou fondamentale, l'Assistance Technique, Technologie et le facteur humain, le Droit à l'Education et ce qu'il comporte, l'Education dans la Communauté mondiale. Chaque groupe a reçu de nombreuses informations; les délégués ont pu se rendre compte du champ de travail immense couvert par l'UNESCO, t constater aussi que les renseignements si nombreux que les ONG peuvent fournir à l'UNESCO sont utiles pour son travail. 108 En septembre 1954, Mme Lehmann prit part à une Conférence des ONG qui avait pour sujet de discussion Education-Information. Mme Lehmann a rappelé qu)à la Conférence précédente, en octobre 1953, en discutant le même sujet, elle avait demandé que l'on remplace par "Egalité d'Education des femmes" le titre "d'Education des femmes". Elle a remarqué que, peur après la création de l'UNESCO, il avait existé une section pour l'Egalité d'Education des Femmes. Cette section a maintenant été supprimée et la question de l'Egalité d'Education répartie parmi les différents départements de l'UNESCO. Il en est résulté qu'aucune section de l'UNESCO n'est responsable de l'égalité des droits des Femmes en matières d'Education. Après une longue discussion, Mme Lehmann a proposé la résolution suivante: "Les organisations internationales, tout en appréciant les activités de l'UNESCO et les efforts faits pour obtenir l'Egalité d'Education pour les femmes, désirent cependant voir cette question prendre place dans le programme de l'UNESCO afin d'atteindre le but désiré progressivement." M. Acroni, qui répondit au nom de l'UNESCO, déclara que la question soulevée par l'Alliance était très importate et qu'elle serait présentée à la Conférence Générale de Montevideo, en décembre 1954. Je regrette que l'UNESCO n'ait rien fait dans ce sens. Chaque année une Conférence Internationale de l'Education publique est convoquée par l'UNESCO et le Bureau International d'Education à Genève. A la 15ème Conférence de 1952, des recommandations furent faites aux Gouvernements sur l'accès des femmes à l'éducation. En janvier 1954, on nous a informées qu'un rapport sur les progrès faits à ce sujet devait être envoyé à la 17ème Conférence, et l'UNESCO demanda aux ONG des renseignements sur les deux points suivants: 1. Les ONG elles-mêmes avaient-elles organisé des cours d'études ou des séminaires pour femmes? 2. LEs sociétés affiliées des ONG, avaient-elles organisé un de ces cours ou pensaient-elles en organiser? L'Alliance put envoyer des détails sur le cours organisé au Danemark en juillet - août 1954 et sur la Conférence régionale de Ceylan de juillet 1054: mais en ce qui concerne les autres sociétés, nous avons seulement reçu des réponses au questionnaires 6/1954 de la Grèce, de l'Iran et du Japon. En avril 1954, l'Alliance a été priée de rechercher des renseignements en vue d'une étude sur la discrimination en matières d'éducation qu'une Sous-Commission sur la Prévention 109 de la Discrimination avait décidé d'entreprendre. Etant donné l'insu.sance des réponses reçues précédemment, un questionnaire très court a été envoyé aux sociétés affiliées. Un bien meilleur résultat fut obtenu et des réponses ont été reçues de Ceylan, d'Israēl, de l'Iran, de la France, la Suède, l'Italie, l'Egypte, la Suisse, l'Allemagne, Le Royaume Uni, la Norvè et la Hollande. Ces renseignements étaient très utiles et l'Alliance les a adressés à la Sous-Commission sous le titre: Discrimination politique, Discrimination due à la tradition, et Discrimination au point de vue économique. Un autre chapitre a été ajouté sur les discriminations dans le domaine de l'enseignement - informations reçues du Royaume-Uni et du Danemark. En juin 1954, le Comité exécutif de l'Alliance accepta la proposition de la Begum Waheed(Pakistan) demandant que la Commission de l'Egalité d'Education de l'Alliance étudie les méthodes actuellement employées, ou qui ont été employées dans différents pays, pour organiser l'Education des adultes. Le questionnaire 26/1954 fut envoyé, et 15 pays répondirent. La plupart des sociétés firent un réel effort pour répondre au questionnaire, mais un petit nombre seulement purent donner quelques détails sur les méthodes employées, ou faire des remarques sur le genre de travail effectué et dire s'il s'était révélé efficace. Les résultats de cette enquête furent compilés, mais ils n'apportent pas assez de renseignements pour permettre de les publier et d'en faire une brochure. Cependant ce sujet est si important, surtout pour l'Afrique et les pays de l'Orient, que nous prévoyons une discussion animée au Congrès sur la question. Ammy Bush. UNITE DE LA MORALE Rapport de la commission L'activité de cette commission comprend, entre autres, ce qui suit: a) Lettres adressées aux associates affiliées leur demandant des renseignements sur le travail, le salaire et les perspectives des femmes de police; également sur les idées des associations, concernant les moyens de pousser l'abolition des maisons de tolérance et leur rappelant que cette abolition 110 entrainera la prévention de la prostitution, de l'aide à ses victimes, de la préoccupation quant à une éducation appropriée. Les rapports reçus des pays suivants: France, Turquie, Italie, Grèce, Egypt, ainsi que des entretiens de vive voix à Copenhague avec des femmes de police, danoises, ont été sujet à des études sérieuses. b) Correspondance avec des personnes compétentes des National Unies sur la circoncision femelle (résolutions) ; avec Mme Charlotte Mahon, sur la Pension alimentaire et la recherche de la Parenté, et la position à l'égard des conventions bilatérales et internationales, proposées ou en vigueur. L'attention des associations est attirée sur un résumé imprimé de la position d'aujourd'hui qui a été distribué aux membres de la commission à la Conférence à Colombo, et on est prié de pousser les gouvernements à agir à ce sujet. Correspondance avec Monsieur le Président du Sénat de la République d'Italie (préparée en coopération avec Dr. Scelba), concernant la proposition de l'abolition des maisons de tolérance en Italie, et lettre de félicitation à la Sénatrice Merlin à l'occasion de sa nouvelle tentative dans cette direction. Correspondance avec Son Excellence le Gouverneur Général, Brazzaville, Afrique-Equatoriale française, et avec Son Excellence le Gouverneur Général, Leopoldville, Congo Belge, au sujet de la circoncision femelle; correspondance avec Mme Ekpo, Présidente de la Nigeria Women's Union, et avec Mme Ogunlesi, Action Group, Ibadan, Nigeria; correspondance avec Mme Fozdar, Singapore, au sujet de l'appuy annoncé de certaines femmes en faveur de la réouverture d'un district avec des lanternes rouges à Singapore; voilà quelques-unes des lettres qui ont été expédiées concernant des sujets d'importance. c) Articles publiés dans les "Nouvelles Féministes Internationales" p.ex. sur la tragédie de Gelsenkirchen: disparition dans les maisons de tolérance de l'Algérie française de cinq filles allemandes, et sur l'avance portugaise vers des conditions abolitionistes dans leurs territoires d'outre-mer, et sur la réouverture en Argentine des maisons de tolérance. Ces articles ont été des moyens utiles de communication avec les associations affiliées de préférence à la distribution plus restreinte à des personnes choisies. d) Considération de la documentation des Nations Unies, surtout les trois questionnaires contenant des questions sur la 111 Traite des personnes, celui envoyé tous les deux ans sur la Traite, le questionnaire plus récent de la Tutelle, et le questionnaire publié par la commission Ad Hoc de l'Esclavage concernant les formes de Prostitution de femmes et d'enfants qui entraine l'exercice d'un droit de propriété sur elles. En outre, il y a maintenant un tas de matiére sur le probléme de la Pension alimentaire mentionnée ci-dessus et une nouvelle proposition de Convention sur l'EWsclavage qui décidément regarde la commission de l'Unité de la Morale. De plus, il faut que la présidente de la commission surveille attentivement la comission des Droits de l'Homme, certaines petitions concernant la prostitution que parviennent de temps en temps, et l'attitude des délégués gouvernementaux sur ces questions. e) Matiére provenant de sources abolitionistes. Un rapport sur les conditions dans les maisons de tolérance de Tanger est de rave significance; bien qu'il ne contienne rien de nouveau pour ceux qui sont au courant, ses faits justifient autant d'urgene que les groupes internationaux soient en mesure d'exercer. Une autre question de souci provient du fait que l'autorité locale peut prendre des mesures, et le fait, de baisser l'age de consentement et diminuer les punitions des entremetteurs. La présidente de la commission a le sentiment bien profond que les associations devraient se rendre compte de leur grande responsabilité de l'unité d'une haute morale, et qu'il faut admettre que bien que l'agitation ait son role a jouer, la bonne route des réformes se trouve dans une éducation appropriée, morales et sociale. Chave Collisson. PAIX ET RELATIONS HUMAINES Rapport de la Commission L'activité de la Commission de la Paix pendant les trois années qui se sont écoulées depuis le Congrés de Naples a consisté a mettre en pratique le voeu invitant les sociétés affilieés.. a orienter leur action vers la comprénsion et le respect de tous les etres humains et a insister auprés de leurs gouvernements respectifs pour qu'ils promulgent des lois supprimant toute discrimination de race, de couleur ou de religion, et mettent des lois en application". 112 Golden Jubilee Birthday Party. Above: Cutting the Cake. From left: Mrs. Deraniyagala, Dr. Rydh, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, Miss Graff. Below: Miss Muttucomaroe serving the customary "Bulath-Purvak" (betel) to Mrs. Baumann and Miss Miller of U. S. A. En réponse à un questionnaire, plusieurs de nos sociétés affiliées ont exposé les efforts faits par elles pour l'assimilation des nouveaux venus dans leur pays. Ces réponses ont été publibliées dans les Nouvelles Féministes. Malheureusement le travail de la Commission est limité parce que ses membres font peu de proposition ou même ne répondent pas aux questionnaires. Mais il semble certain que le travail pratique mentionné ci-dessus intéresse nos membres et que celles qui veulent faire un travail de caractère plus politique, tel qu'une protestation contre l'emploi de la bombe atomique ou en faveur d'un Gouvernement mondial, le font par l'intermédiaire des associations pacifistes. Cela est raisonnable, car ces associations acquièrent une grande expérience en ces matières et peuvent être plus utiles. Il résulte des rapports reçus que le meilleur travail accompli depuis Naples a été l'oeuvre accomplie par notre association australienne sur tout le territoire du pays pour intégrer les émigrants dans la vie australienne tout en mettant en valeur l'apport intellectuel qu'ils peuvent offrir; d'autre part le succès remarquable du cours de vacances au Denmark dont notre Association danoise a pris une lourde responsabilité. Mes remerciement chaleureux vont à Madame Kiek d'Australie, Dr. en théologie, et à Madame la Baronne Anna Mazziotti di Celso qui n'ont cessé de m'encourager et de m'aider. M. I. Corbett Ashby. ,,Nous, les peuples", comme jamais aupravant dands l'histoire, n'avons eu l'occasion de faire sentir notre influence, ni d'apporter aux Nations Unies le bénéfice de nos connaissances et de notre expérience. Section des Organisations non gourvernementales Il y a aujourd'hui 279 organisations qui sont en rapport avec le Conseil Economique et Social; parmi celles-ci, il y en a dix qui sont de ,,Catégorie A": les grandes organisations syndicales, les associations manufacturières et le mouvement coopératif. L'A.I.F. se trouve parmi les 110 organisations de ,,Catégorie B", un statut accordé ,,aux organisations qui ont une compétence spéciale dans seulement quelques champs d'activité couverts par le Conseil"; ces deux groupes sont considérés comme faisant ,,une contribution significative" et sont ,,en plein et continuel rapport" avec le Conseil. Les organisations à terme fixe sont hautement spécialisées et sont inscrites ,,sur le Registre". Pour faciliter la coopération entre le Conseil et les ONG, le Conseil a désigné des membres de son Secrétariat pour être responsables de la Section des ONG. Le Chef en est Mr. Charles Hogan, et son associé Mr. Laszlo Hamori. Ils sont responsables de contacts entre les NU et les ONG; ces deux membres sont, sur tout ce qui concerne le Conseil Economique et Social, une véritable source de renseignements. Privilèges des ONG Quoique seules les organisations de ,,Catégorie A" puissent proposer des sujets à ajouter a l'Ordre de Jour de Conseil (ECOSOC), les deux Catégories peuvent faire des rapports verbaux pendant les sessions de différentes Commisions du Conseil. Des rapports écrits peuvent être soumis pour distribution aux Membres des Nations Unies. Pour tenir au courant les Représentants, le Département de Reseignements Publics organise de brefs sommaires hebdomadaires, où les membres du Secrétariat, ou des Délégués, donneront un aperçu préalable des réunions qui auront lieu, ainsi qu'un sommaire des sessions passées, ou bien encore, la présentation de questions concernant les Nations Unies. Les Documents Courants se trouvent dans le hall des ONG, où les nouvelles publications y sont en vue; des brochures récemment issues des ONG s'y trouveront egalement. Les Billets pour toutes les réunions sont pris aussi dans le hall des ONG qui est devenu une place de rendez-vous pour les Représentant des ONG. 114 Commission de la Condition de la Femme Les Représentantes de l'A.I.F. ont suivi cette Commission de très près; durant le débat des trois dernières sessions, des communications verbales furent faites sur:- Droits Politiques des Femmes Condition de la Femme en Droit Prive Salaire égal pour travail égal Travail à temps partiel Femmes dans les Programmes d'Assistance Technique. L'A.I.F. a aussi été représentée par le Comité de Liaison des Organisations Internationales qui a le statut de la ,,Catégorie B", et par conséquent une Représentante spéciale. Comité de Liaison, Groupe de New York Ce groupe tient des réunions régulières pour discuter des questions d'intérêt commun, et à l'époque de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, pour décider de la meilleure méthode pour présenter les points de vue des organisations membres, en évitant les répétitions inutiles. Pendant la sessions de la Condition de la Femme, le Comité de Liaison a accuelli les membres de la Commission. Cette annee, au souper, chaque organisation donna un bref aperçu de son but et de son travail, étant donné que beaucoup de déléguées ne sont pas familiarisées avec toutes les différentes organisations. La Représentante de l'A. I. F. put annoncer le Congrès du Jubilé d'Or à Colombo et le plan pour y inclure un Cours d'Etudes faisant partie du Programme. Ce fut une source d'orhueil pour l'A. I. F., que la Begum Anwar Ahme, qui est un membre très actif de l'Association des Femmes de Tout-Pakistan, fut élue Vice-Présidente de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, pour sa IXième Session. Demandes de Coopération des ONG A la Session de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, en 1955, les délégués reconnurent le travail des ONG et demandèrent leur aide pour l'avenir. (1) La Commission pria le Secrétaire Général d'obtenir des ONG des informations sur "leurs méthodes, leurs techniques et leurs moyens d'activités, dirigés vers l'extension du pouvoir des femmes exercé par elles, en droits politiques, paticulièrement dans les pays où les femmes n'ont pas encore le vote, ou qui viennent seulement récement d'obtenir les droits politiques". (2) La Commission pria le Secrétaire Général d'obtenir des renseigne- 8* 115 ments des ONG concernant les méthodes qu'elles avaient trouvées pratiques pour assurer l'application du principe du ,,Salaire Egal pour Travail Egal". (3) La Commission demanda au Conseil Economique et Social ,,d'encourager les ONG de continuer leurs efforts pour créer une opinion publique bien renseignée en faveur du principe des Salaires Egaux". Conférences des ONG Celles-ci peuvent être organisées par le Bureau d'Informations Publiques pour discuter des questions telles que: la condition des réfugiés, ou celles pouvant donner un tableau général du travail des Nations Unies. La Conférence sur l'Abolition des Préjugés et des Discriminations fut convoquée par le Secrétaire Général aprés l'appel du Conseil Economique et Social aux ONG, afin de coordonner leurs efforts pour l'Avancement des droits humains. Conférence des ONG Consultatives Ce groupe a considéré la possibilité de modifier l'Article 71, par le fait que l'Assemblée Générale examinera si oui, ou non, la Charte devrait être revisée. Les rapporteurs dirent qu'ils ,,préféraient qu'aucun changement dans l'Article 71 ne se fit dans le cas d'une révision de la charte, ni rien ayant référance á la consultation des ONG dans d'autres sections de la Charte des NU. Comité des ONG du Fonds International des NU pour le Secours á l'Enfance (FISE) Pour augmenter l'intérêt du travail des NU pour les enfants du monde, le Comité des ONG pour le FISE (UNICEF) fut fondé. La Représentante de l'A.I.F. en est devenue membre. II faut espérer que les sociétés affiliées de l'A.I.F. donneront leur support aux Comités Nationaux pour le FISE où ils existent, et aideront à en fonder où ils n'existent pas encore. Les Comités Nationaux se serviront de leur influence pour s'assurer que le Gouvernement continuera à contribuer au FISE, et, quand il est possible, d'augmenter leurs contributions. Les sociétés affiliées de l'A.I.F. des pays contributeurs peuvent aider le FISE en faisant connaitre par la publicité, le travail accompli avec l'argent reçu. Celles dans les pays recevant une assistance financière, peuvent faire connaitre le grand service rendu à leurs enfants par les FISE. Stage d'études au Siège Central des Nations Unies Pendant huit semaines, chaque année, un groupe de jeunes gens passent l'été à travailler et à s'instruire au Siège Central 116 des NU; ils sont recommandés par les Gouvernements ou par des ONG. Les dépenses de voyages sont payées par les Gouvernements, des organisations, ou individuellement; les dépenses à New York, par les Nations Unies. L'A.I.F. a eu deux participantes: Mlle Jeantine Hefting de Hollande, en 1951, et Mlle Luciana Marzia Corcos d'Italie, cette année. Ceci est une expérience de valeur; l'A.I.F. ne pourrait-elle pas recommander chaque année une candidate qualifiée? Documents des Sociétés affiliées Les Représentants ont accès aux documents contenant des matières très utiles dans le champ économique et social, par rapport aux pays moins développés. On enverra volontiers des documents choisis, à la personne désignée par chaque pays et, si des sociétés affiliées désirent profiter de l'offre, elles devront écrire au Bureau Central de l'A.I.F. à Copenhague, ou directement à la Représentante à New York. Rapports et Réponses L'aide, que donne l'A.I.F. aux Nations Unies, est souvent limitée para la difficulté de recevoir les réponses à temps. Si chaque société affiliée à l'A.I.F. faisait un effort déterminé d'envoyer les réponses au Bureau Central de l'A.I.F., aussi vite que possible, ce serait une réelle contribution. Ce qui est accompli dans un pays, peut devenir beaucoup plus important, si la connaissance en est partagée par l'intermédiaire des N.U. 10ième Anniversaire de la Signature de la Charte des NU La Représentant de l'A.I.F. assista à la Célébration de l'Anniversaire, qui eut lieu en juin 1955, à San Francisco. Ce fut une semaine trés impressionnante et, sans l'urgence d'un Ordre du Jour, ce fut l'occasion de démontrer un sentiment de bonne volanté et de compréhension et, où l'on essaya de retourner à ,,;'esprit de 1945". Représentantes Depuis 1947, l'A.I.F. a été habilement représentée par Mme Charlotte Mahon, avec l'assistance de: Mmes Anna Lord Strauss, Lois Ruml, Ruth Woodsmall, et Anne Guthrie. Mme Mahon donna, en effet, son temps et son habileté généreusement; l'A.I.F. lui est grandement reconnaissante pour ses huit années de travail. Depuis la démission de Mme Mahon, les Représentantes ont été: Mmes Anne Guthrie, Anna Lord Strauss, Elisabeth Hitch- 117 cock, Alwin Dodd, et pour le Fonds International des NU pour le Secours de l'Enfance Mme Grant Brown C'est un honneur, pour nous, de représenter I'A. I. F. au Bureau Central des NU. Les Représentantes sont reconnais- saints de la possibilité qui leur fut donnée d'acquérir une ex- périence, si significative pour elles. Conclusion S'adressant à une Conférence des ONG, le Secrétaire Géné- ral a dit: - "Vous avez une occasion unique de présenter directe- ment aux peuples des Nations Unies, la réalité du travail accompli, et aussi, la difficulté des problémes qui nous font face. Il se peut que quelquefois nous n'ayons pas toujours saisi, au premier abord, toute la complexité d'un probléme international .... Il nous faut susciter des moyens de compréhension, pour les forces qui forment la décision des gouvernements; les nombreux agents de la vie moderne que les gouvernements doivent prendre en considération, avant d'atteindre à leurs décisions, ainsi que la maniére, par laquelle ils doivent entrer en négociation les uns avec les autres .... Encore une fois, je vous remercie de I'excellent travail que vous avez ac- compli, et puissent vos efforts à l'avenir, étre couronnés de succés". L'A. I. F. est seulement une des nombreuses Organisations Non Gouvernementales, qui ont le privilége de jouer un rôle dans l'effort mondial, mais c'est un rôle, lui donnant sa part pour aider les Nations Unies, dans leurs efforts pour éliminer les tensions et les conflits, pour élever le degré de comfort de la vie pour ceux dans les pays moins développés, et pour donner à tous les peuples une place de dignité et de respect dans la famille des nations, et dans le monde entier. Anne Guthrie, New York. 118 Résolutions adoptées par le XVIIéme Con- grés de I'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, à Colombo, en août 1955. DECLARATION GENERALE Le 17éme Congrés de I' Alliance Internationale des Femmes, CONSIDERANT d'abord que la tension qui existe dans le monde, est atténuée actuellement dans une large mesure, gràce au fait que des groupes de nations acceptent les prin- chips de tolérance, de respect mutuel et de compréhension réciproque, CONSIDERANT, en outre, que le développement de la compréhension entre les peuples dépend des réformes qui assureront à chaque individu, homme ou femme de tous les pays, de toutes les races et de toutes les classes, l'égalité et la liberté spitiruelle, contrôlée par le sens de la responsabilité; cette égalité et cette liberté étant assurées non-seulement par la législation, mais aussi dans la pratique de tous les jours, et non-seulement dans la vie publique mais aussi dans la famille qui constitue la cellule de la société. L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes ayant lutté pendant 50 ans, par l'intermédiaire de ses sociétés affiliées, pour ces principes proclamés aujourd'hui dans la Déclaration universelle des Droits de l'Homme, fera tous ses efforts pour que ces Droits soient respectés, afin d'éliminer les obstacles qui empêchent le femmes d'exercer leurs droits en matière d'éducation et en matières économique, civile et politique. Car une nation ne peut s'élever que dans la mesure où elle élève la condition des femmes qui en sont membres. L'inspiration que les femmes peuvent apporter aux pays et la collaboration des hommes et des femmes pour une vie plus heureuse seront un enrichissement pour le pays. La cause des femmes est aujourd'hui la cause de toute l'humanité. 119 EGALITE DES FROITS CIVILS ET POLITIQUES A. Inclusion de l'art. 16 de la Déclarartion Universelle des Droits de l'Homme dans l'art. 22 du Pacte d'Application L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au ler septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT Qu'une résolution de la 8ème session de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme, adressée à l'ECOSOC, demandait que la Commission des Droits de l'Homme modifiât le texte de l'article 22 du pacte d'application de la Déclaration des Droits de l'Homme. Ce texte, en effet, qui est destiné à mettre en application l'article 16 de la Déclaration, prévoit seulement que "la législation des Etats sera orientée vers l'Egalité des droits des époux à l'égard du mariage, durant le mariage et lors de sa dissolution". Que la résolution de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme demandait que l'art. 22 soit conforme à l'art. 16, c'est-à-dire qu'il prescrive que la législation des Etats assure l'égalité des époux, au lieu de: soit orientée vers cette égalité. Que l'ECOSOC avait transmis cette résolution à la 9ème Assemblée Générale de l'ONU qui n'y avait pas donné suite. DEMANDE au Secrétaire Général d'informer l'Assemblée Générale des Nations Unies de la présente résolution et du désir de l'Alliance internationale des femmes que cette résolution soit prise en considération par la 10ème session de l'Assemblée Générale. DEMANDE á toutes ses sociétés affiliées d'écrire à leur gouvernement lui priant de demander au Secrétaire Général des Nations Unies d'assurer la distribution de la présente résolution à l'Assemblée Générale, de l'inclure dans l'ordre du jour et de la transmettre au troissième Comité de l'Assemblée Générale. B. Participation des Organisations Féminines aux Enguêtes de l'ECOSOX L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au ler septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que les associations féminines acquièrent une connaissance approfondie des problèmes des femmes dans leur pays, grâce à leur expérience dans ce domaine, DEMANDE que l'ECOSOC ne s'adresse pas seulement aux Gouvernements, mais aussi aux organisations féminines non- 120 gouvernementales, lorsqu'il fait des enquêtes sur la condition des femmes, étant donné que cela lui permettra d'avoir une idée plus complète de l'opiion publique. C. Inclusion des Femmes dans les Délégations (Territoires sous-tutelle et non autonomes) L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrés, à Colombo, du 17 août au ler septembre 1955: VU l'incapcité civile qui frappe les femmes dans les territoires sous-tutelle et non autonomes, CONSIDERANT que la responsabilité internationale des femmes exige leur participation à tous les aspects des entreprises humaines, RECONNAISSANT que l'Organisation des Nations Unies s'efforce d'arriver à ce but, par le travail de sa Commission sur la condition de la femme, RECOMMANDE que ceux des Gouvernements, membres de la Commission, qui sont responsables de l'administration des territoires sous tutelle, soient invités à inclure dans leur délégation, en qualité de déléguées suppleéantes ou conseillères, des dirigeantes des organisations féminines de ces régions, afin qu'elles aient l'occassion: (a) de collaborer avec les organisations internationales, (b) d'apprendre à connaître leurs problèmes de point-de-vue international, (c) de traviller à acquérir l'égalité des droits dans leur propre pays. EGALITE DES DROITS ECONOMIQUES A. Bureaux de renseignements pour femmes L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au ler septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que, dans certaines régions, la concurrence pour la recherche d'emplois est très grande dans les occupations ne nécessitant pas de formation professionnelle, ou une demi-formation, domaines où les femmes sont en plus grand nombre, DEMANDE que l'O. I. T. aide les états membres ou non-membres qui le désirent à créer des bureaux de renseignements pour femmes. 121 B. Bureau pour femmes et enfants aux Philppines L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au ler septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que, d'après les statistiques, il existe environ deux millions de femmes et d'enfants sure les sept millions de travailleurs inserits dans les Philippines; CONSIDERANT que, dans le monde, en l'absence d'agences gouvernementales chargées de s'occuper d'eux, les travailleurs femmes et enfants constituent invariablement le groupe de travailleurs de plus négligé; CONSIDERANT que, dans d'autres pays avancés de l'Orient, comme les Indes et le Japon, dont les femmes n'ont obtenu pourtant les droits politiques que récemment, il existe déjà des bureaux organisés pour femmes et enfants, chargés de prendre soin des travailleurs femmes et enfant; CONSIDERANT que les lois existant aux Philippines pour protéger les femmes et enfants salariés, ne peuvent en fait être mis en application tant qu'il n'existe pas de bureau pour veiller à leur exécution; CONSIDERANT qu'il est indispensable d'avoir un bureau dont la tâche serait de rédiger les réglements nécessaires, afin d'assurer le bien-être des femmes et des enfants, de leur aider à améliorer leurs conditions de travail, d'augmenter leur capacité de travail et leurs possibilités d'obtenir un emploi plus profitable, ESTIME que la création d'un Bureau pour femmes et enfants devrait être prévu dans la réorganisation du Département du Travail. C. Travail à mi-temps L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au ler septembre 1995: RECOMMANDE à l'O. I. T. le travail à mi-temps qui devrait devenir un des points essentiels de l'organisation du Travail, son but étant de donner aux travailleurs des deux sexes la possibilité de choisir ce mode of travail dans des conditions équitables, lorsqu'ils le désirent pour des raisons de santé, de faiblesse physique ou d'autres circonstances spéciales. D. Enquêtes sur les problèmes du Travail L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du août au ler septembre 1995: 122 CONSIDERANT que les problèmes économiques de certaines régions diminuent les disctinctions existant entre les sexes dans le domaine du travail, par suite de l'augmentation extraordinaire de la population qui exige le transfert de l'exédent de poplation, du domaine de l'agriculture à d'autres genres de travaux rémunérés, et CONSIDERANT que le processus d'industrialisation comportera d'importants problèmes sociaux, DEMANDE que les experts en matière économique et sociale envoyés par l'ONU et éventuellement par ses institutions spécialisées prennent contact avec les organisations féminines non-gouvernementales de ces régions, afin de'apprendre à connaître le mieux possible les problèmes du pays et les possibilités locales, SUGGERE que l'O. I. T. organise une enquête sur les problèmes du travail dans ces régions. EGALITE DE L'EDUCATION A. Inclusion de femmes possédant la formation appropriée, lors de l'élaboration de projets d'éducation de base L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que les équipes de l'UNESCO chargées d'élaborer des projets d'élaborer des projets d'éducation de base, ne comprennent pas toujours des femmes ayant la formation appropriée pari leur personnel au premier stade de leur travail, ESTIMANT que la présence de femmes dans ces équipes est essentielle si l'on veut arriver à une meilleure compréhension des problèmes et gagner la confiance de la population intéressée, DEMANDE que l'UNESCO, lorsqu'elle prépare des projets pour l'éducation de la population d'un pays, s'assure que des femmes ayant la formation appropriée soient nommées dans le personnel des équipes, et cela dès le commencement des travaux. B. Egalité d'accès à l'éducation secondaire pour les filles et les garçons L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: 123 CONSTATE avec satisfaction que des facilités égales d'accès à l'éducation on été prévues pour les réfugiés arabes par l'UNSCO et l'UNWRAPNE. APPROUVE le fait que l'éducation primaire est donnée aux filles comme aux garçons, DEMANDE que des facilités égales soient également prévues pour l'éducation secondaire pour les filles comme pour les garçons. C. Egalité d'éducation secondaire et post-scolaire pour les deux sexes L'alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que, dans un grand nombre de pays, la femme est considérée come inférieure à l'homme, et cela surtout dans les pays où l'éducation des femmes se trouve encore à un niveau inférieur, OBSERVANT que, l'un des résultats de l'adoption de principe de l'égalité de l'éducation pour les deux sexes est que, peu à peu, l'idée de l'égalité entre les hommes et les femmes fait du chemin et que les discriminations entre les sexes disparaissent, DEMANDE à l'UNESCO de recommander à ses etats membres de veiller à ce que les programmes d'instruction primaire soient les mêmes pour les garçons et pour les filles et que les jeunes gens à tous les genres d'éducation secondaire, professionnelle et technique, INSISTE pour que l'éducation secondaire et l'éducation post-secondaire soit égale pour les deux sexes. D. Egalité de l'éducation pour les femmes L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo, du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: EXPRIME à l'UNESCO sa reconnaissance pour les efforts qu'elle fait et l'activité qu'elle déploie en vue d'obtenir l'égalité d'éducation pour les femmes, EXPRIME LE VOEU que cette question occupe une place définie dans le programme de l'UNESCO, afin que l'on arrive progressivement au résultat désiré. 124 UNITE DE LA MORALE A. Maisons de tolérance en Argentine Le congrès de Jubilé de l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes représentant 38 pays, réunie à Colombo, déplore la décision du Gouvernement argentin aui, après avoir adhéré pendant vingt ans au principe de l'abolition des maisons de tolérance, vient soudain d'autoriser la réouverture légale de ces maisons. Le Congrès demande instamment au Gouvernement argentin de revenir sur cette décision qui est contraire à l'activité de ses représentants, lesquels ont voté la Convention internationale pour la suppression de la traite des personnes et l'exploitation de la prostitution d'autrui, à la 264ème session de l'Assemblée générale des Nations Unies le 2 décembre 1949. Le congrès fait observer au Gouvernement argentin que les Maisons de tolérance constituent la plus puissante incitation à la traite des femmes, étant donné qu'elles constituent des commerces qui doivent constamment s'approvisionner en nouveaux contingents de femmes; de plus, en les acceptant, le Gouvernement donne sa sanction à l'idée qu'il serait juste de mettre à part un groupe de femmes vouées à la honte, afin de favoriser le vice, idée qui est rejetée aujourd'hui par les pays progressistes. Le Congrès compte que l'Argentine rejoindra les nations avancées du monde, en annulant cette décision et en déclarant que les Maisons de tolérance sont illégales. B. Maisons de tolérance à Singapour Le Congrès de l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, représentant 38 pays, réunie à Colombo, en août 1955. PREND CONNAISANCE avec consternation de l'article d'un journal*) contenant des propositions en vue de la création de Maisons de tolérance autorisées à Singapour, à l'usage des troupes australiennes mobilisées depuis peu à Malaya. Le Congrès a de la peine à croire que l'Autorité chargée du Gouvernement à Singapour permettrait que ce pas en arrière soit fait et, tout en protestant énergiquement contre la posibilité d'une action de ce genre, demande à la dite Autorité de publier un démenti à cet article honteux. *) "The Argus Melboune", Victoria, 6 août 1955 125 PAIX ET RELATIONS HUMAINES A. L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: 1. REAFFIRME le voeu adopté à son XVIème Congrès, à Naples, libellé comme suit: ESTIMANT que l'humanité atteint un degré de civilisation qui permet de régler tous les différends internationaux par des moyens pacifiques et sans recours à la guerre, s'élève en particulier contre tous les moyens de destruction massive qui menacent les populations civiles, notamment les armes atomiques et les bombes à hydrogène. Elle demande l'abolition de ces méthodes de guerre avec un contrôle effectif, afin de libérer l'humanité de sentiment d'insécurité qui pèse sur elle, APPROUVE le développement de la force atomique pour des fins pacifiques, mais exprime l'espoir qu'il n'y aura plus d'expériences pour des buts militaires. 2. L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes REAFFIRME sa volonté - ainsi que celles de ses sociétés affiliées - de faire tout ce qui est en son pouvoir pour encourager les meilleures relations possibles entre toutes les races de l'humanité et déclare qu'elle est opposé à toutes les discriminations basées sur la race dans les domaines de l'éducation, de toutes les formes de travail et dans les professions. 3. L'Alliance Internationale des Femes DEMANDE que l'assistance technique soit développée au maximum, car elle estime que le niveau de vie trop bas de certains peuples constitue une menace pour la paix. B. L'Alliance Internatinale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: CONSIDERANT que la Charte des Nations Unies et la Déclaration des Droits de l'Homme sont basées sur le principe de l'égalité des droits des hommes et des femmes, ainsi que des nations grandes et petites, CONSIDERANT que ce principe implique le droit de peuples de disposer d'eux-mêmes et de déterminer librement leur statut politique et leur souveraineté natinale, CONSIDERANT que l'Assemblée Générale des N. U., par sa recommandation de décembre 1952, a soutenu le droit des 126 peuples de disposer d'eux-mêmes, et a par conséquent reconnu l'importance de cette question, CONSIDERANT que l'atteinte à ce principe provoque actuellement en certains pays des troubles qui présentent en danger imminent pour la paix, EXPRIME le voeu que la prochaine Assemblée Générale des N. U. trouve des moyens effectifs pour l'application de ce principe, afin de sauvegarder les relations amicales entre les nations. C. L'Alliance Internatinale des Femmes, réunie en Congrès, à Colombo du 17 août au 1er septembre 1955: TENANT COMPTE des aspitations actuelles de l'opinion publique sur les problèmes touchant à la paix, DEMANDE que tous les Gouvernements s'abstiennent rigoureusement de prononcer des paroles offensantes et provocantes; qu'ils développent leur législation dans le domaine des assurances et de l'assistance sociale; et qu'ils utilisent toutes leurs ressources matérielles et morales pour la santé et le bien-être de leurs peuples afin que ceux-ci, lorsqu'ils seront libérés de trop loudes charges journalières, puissent s'élever spirituellement et suivre leurs aspirations vers la paix et la bonne volonté. 127 COURS D'ETUDES A COLOMBO Rapport du Rapporteur Le cours était basé sur le travail des cinq Commissions permanentes. Les réunions journalières commençaient à 8.45 du matin, et se terminaient à 4.30 de l'après-midi, avec intervalles d'une demi-heure à 10.30, et de 12.30 à 2.30, pour le déjeuner. Les Présidentes (ou Vice Présidentes) des Commissions permanentes présidaient, et l'emploi du temps de la journée commençait par un discours d'introduction d'environ 40 minutes, fait par un conférencier d'expérience, suivi par des questions pendant 15 minutes; puis il y avait de brefs rapports par des déléguées qualifiées, sur les conditions dans leurs pays respectifs. Le reste de la matinée était consacré à une discussion en séance plénière. L'après-midi, les déléguées se divisaient en trois ou quatre petits groupes, afin de discuter des sujets soulevés à la session du matin, et les chefs de groupes purent présenter leurs rapports à une assemblée plénière, avant la fin de la journée. Une copie des discours et des rapports était distribuée d'avance à chaque réunion, ce qui fut très apprécié par les déléguées n'ayant pas une parfaite connaisance de la langue anglaise 1. DROITS EGAUX D'EDUCATION Deux jours étaient consacrés à l'étude des différents aspects de l'éducation: secondaire, professionelle et technique, ainsi que l'éducation fondamentale et du développement social des jeunes filles. Mme. A.E. Bush présidait. Mr. T. L. Green; Professor d'Education à l'Université de Ceylan, discuta des faits qui créaient des obstacles à l'éducation secondaire des jeunes filles. Il appuya sur l'importance de garder en vue les besoins individuels et sociaux des jeunes filles, leurs capacité spéciales et leurs intérêts, ainsi que leurs positions sociales, rurales ou urbaines, lorsque l'on dresse un programme d'éducation, en n'importe quel pays. La Begum Shamsun Nahar Mahmood, du Pakistan, et Mlle. King-Hall, du Royaume Uni, lurent des rapports sur les différentes méthodes dans leurs pays. 128 Dr. J. D. H. Versluys, fonctionnaire à l'UNESCO pour les Sciences Sociales, à New Delhi, décrivit les recherches faites par l'UNESCO sur l'éducation des jeunes filles, ainsi que la condition des femmes du Sud-Est Asiatique. La questions d'éducation professionnelle et technique pour jeunes filles, en ajoutant des suggestions pour augmenter les opportunités de les obtenir, fut traitée par Mr. S. L. de Silva, Directeur du Collége Technique de Colombo, et par Mlle. Francken qui esquissa les opportunités possibles dans les Pays-Bas. Un des groupes d'études discuta des moyens d'assurer que l'éducation technique soit liée étroitement aux besoins de la communauté. Un autre groupe fit ressortir l'importance, pour garçons et filles, de l'apprentissage de l'art domestique, étant donné que le travail domestique de la maison entraînait la responsabilité du mari, comme de la femme. Un autre groupe encore, décida que l'éducation secondaire, tout en devant être égale pour garçons et filles, ne devrait pas être nécessairement identique. Le second jour, la Begum Saida Waheed présidait, et le Dr. Spencer Hatch, de l'UNESCO, Directeur de Centre d'Education Fondamentale, à Ceylan, parla des méthodes d'éducation fondamentale pour les femmes rurales, illettrées, des régions économoquement moins développées. Il appuya sur l'importance de l'apprentissage et dit, qu'il voudrait voir l'Alliance Internationale des Demmes se mettre en tête "d'un mouvement actif, pour apprendre aux femmes à faire partie de groupes s'occupant de d"veloppement de ces pays." Un rapport de Mme. Doria Shafik (Egypte), fut lu sur ce sujet, et Mme. Daniela Celcis (Haiti), ainsi que Mlle. Lily Baela (Côte d'Or d'Afrique) présentèrent également leurs rapports. Pendant la discussion qui suivit, on insista continuellement pour que les femmes des villages apprissent à agir comme directrices en matière d'éducation fondamentale, ainsi qu'à travailler dans leurs régions propres, ou dans des régions similaires. 2. UNITE DE LA MORALE Princesse Firouz présida la séance à laquelle Mlle. Chave Collission, qui est Présidente de la Commission de l'Unité de la Morale, parla au Congrès sur la Convention des NU, pour la Supression du Traffic des Femmes et l'Exploitation de la Prostitution. Chaque déléguée avait été pourvue d'une copie de la Convention et d'une brochure imprimée sur l'Histoire 129 de l'Abolition des Maisons tolérées. Mlle. Collisson insista pour que chaque société affiliée étudia soigneusement les deux documents, les priant d'insister auprès des gouvernements, pour qu'ils signent, ratifient et mettent en application la Convention. Les Maisons tolérées sont des magasins, et commes les magasins, il faut constamment les approvisionner de marchandises; de là, le trafic! Ces Maisons ont le soutien de l'état pour la soi-disant "sauvegarde" du vice des hommes. La Convention rejette comme illégales de telles Maisons tolérées, ainsi que toutes les "mesures employées", telles que les lois qui, sous guise de "mesures de santé" exigent l'enregistrement et l'examen médical de prostituées. L'ignorance, la pauvreté et certaines formes de divorces faciles, conduisent à la prostitution. L'histoire de Micheline Pierre, une jeune fille française, qui fut prise au piège par de fausses promesses de mariage par une Maison tolérée africaine, et de là envoyée à une Maison tolérée pour la Lègion Etrangère, fut lue par Mlle. Collisson. Les Maisons tolérées doivent être fermées, mais en même temps, il faut procurer les moyens d'existence à ces prostituées déplacées, et leur faire reprendre une place dans la société normale. Les femmes policières pourraient être très utiles en ce cas, et Mlle. Collisson fit remarquer le développement intéressant de cette force à Ceylan. Les Déléguées jurèrent, la main levée, de lutter contre le Trafic des Femmes. Mme. Hacer Bizden (Turquie), esquissa les principes sur lesquels la Convention fut basée. Elle parla des conditions plus élevées et égales, pour hommes et femmes. Les fonctions de l'état sont limitées, en ce qui regarde la moralité sexuelle, à la protection des mineurs, la punition pour l'indécence publique et la fraude, ayant rapport à la procuration, ainsi que pour la punition de tous ceux que profitent en procurant des femmes aux maisons tolérées. 3. DROITS EGAUX ECONOMIQUES Mme. Casinader présida, et deux jours et demi furent consacrés aux problèmes économiques, spécialement au travail partiel, salaire égal, service de sécurité sociale, et travail des ouvrières âgées. Ces questions sont conçues différemment dans les diverses parties du monde. Sur le sujet de l'ouvrière âgée, Mlle. Frieda S. Miller nous montra que, en améliorant leur propre position, les femmes [130] aidaient la communauté. La vie de la femme suit, généralement, une ligne différente de celle de l'homme - due aux responsabilités de la famille. Les femmes doivent garder leur habilité de travail, afin de pouvoir reprendre leur emploi quand les enfants atteignent un certain âge. Elles peuvent aussi s'exercer à l'apprentissage des méthodes plus modernes, à mesure que les temps changent. Mme. Moesgaard (Danemark) décrivit un projet de la Société des Femmes Danoises pour le réapprentissage des femmes, comme employées de bureaux, où elles obtiennent un travail bien rémunéré, après avoir terminé le cours de leur réapprentissage. Mme. Fay Doron (Israël), esquissa le projet de l'Organisation Internationale des Femmes Zionistes pour l'apprentissage de la main-d'oeuvre: tissages, etc., des femmes âgées. Des Salles de Raccommodage ont été ouvertes, et un service d'art ménager a été organisé. Mlle. Miller donna un aperçu de la signification du travail partiel et de ses raisons d'être. Quand le travail bat son plein, et l'emploi est facile à trouver, les ouvrières à temps partiel sont une partie essentielle de la force du travail. Quand il y a une baisse d'emplois, par suite de manque de travail, alors le travail partiel, sous forme de main-d'oeuvre de village, apporte une addition importante au revenu de la famille. Les personnes physiquement handicappées ont besoin d'un travail partiel; les femmes qui ont des responsabilités de famille sont quelquefois dans la nécessité d'ajouter un supplément au revenu de la famille; quelques travaux ne demandent seulement que des ouvrières à temps partiel. En général, les taux de salaires sont à peu près les mêmes, mais parfois, les bénéfices de maladie ne sont pas applicables aux ouvrières à temps partiel. Mr. M. Rajanayagam, Commissaire du Travail, pour Ceylan, accentua fortement les difficultés des pays arriérés: le système des castes, le manque d'instruction, l'extrême pauvreté, le problème de la main-d'oeuvre indigène, essayant de rivaliser avec la production en gros. Un rapport lu par le Dr. Else Ulich-Beil (Allemagne), ainsi que celui lu par Mme. Carmela Renner (Sierra Leone) suivirent. La discussion sur la Convention des Nations Unis sur l'Egalité des Salaires attira l'attention sur les issues impliquées par le résultat des variations nationales, dans le plan de emplois. [131] Le point de base de cette lutte est un sentiment d'injustice, quand, pour le même travail, il existe une rémunération différente. Ensuite, furent lus des rapport par Mlle. Garnett (Royaume Uni) et par Mlle. Dumlao (Iles Philippines). Il y eut une divergence de vues sur la question des Bureaux de Femmes. Mme. Anrep (Suéde) avait le sentiment que l'établissement même de ces Bureaux, visait à l'inégalité; mais des pays aussi grandement dissemblables que l'Australie (Mlle. Rich), et Ceylan (Mme. Sylvia Fernando) demandèrent instamment leur établissement, et Mlle. Olsuki (Japon) parla des excellents résultats obtenus au Japon, par le Bureau des Femmes et des Mineurs, et on nota aussi leur succès aux Etats Unis. Le Double Rôle des Femmes fut présenté sous une forme nouvelle et intéressante par le Professeur D. P. Mukerji, Président de la Section Economique à l'Université Musulmane des Indes. Il fit un sommaire, montrant comment l'industrailisation avait influencé la condition des femmes aux Indes. Son champ d'observation était plutôt la famille que la femme. La famille naturelle seule, commence à prendre sa place dans une communauté formée de tous ses membres, comme unité sociale dans les régions urbaines. Dans les régions urbaines, étant donné l'augmentation des salaires et les efforts des travailleurs sociaux, le niveau du progrès social des femmes s'est élevé. Mais 80% des ouvriers industriels aux Indes, n'ont pas de maisons, par conséquent pas de chez eux, ce qui est la raison de la détérioration du système familiale. Le travail de bienfaisance fait énormément pour combattre les maux provenant de l'industrialisation, mais aucune agence extérieure ne peut remplacer la famille. Begum Anwar Ahmed (Pakistan) fit un appel, afin que l'Orient ne répète point les fautes de l'Occident où une amélioration des conditions de la vie avait coïncidé avec une augmentation de délits de la jeunesse, et une désagrégation de la vie de famille. Mme. Holmfridur Jonsdollir (Islande) montra comment ave l'industrialisation, l'art domestique était enseigné maintenant aux garçons dans les écoles, et Mme. Elhamy Greiss (Egypte) insista sur la nécessité d'éducation de la vie de famille à l'école et par la radio. Mme. Edith Anrep lut un rapport, nous montrant qu'en Suède 14% des femmes mariées avaient un emploi rémunéré, et sur le total de toutes les femmes employées, 30% étaient mariées. L'état avait par conséquent pris charge de certaines occupations, résultant du changement ressenti dans la famille, [132] spécialement pour le soin des veillards et des enfants en bas âge. 4. DROITS EGAUX ET POLITIQUES Mme. Nina Spiller présida, et Mme. Lakshmi M. Menon, Secrétaire Parlementaire au Ministère des Affaires Extérieures (Inde), prit la parole et analysa le rôle politique des femmes. Dans les pays démocratiques, les élections (comprenant les femmes) ont la sanction finale. La politique est une question de savoir comment les règlements de santé, d'éducation, les lois etc. sont exécutés. Les femmes ne votent pas toujours d'après les directives de leurs partis, mais s'intéressent aux issues morales du scrutin. L'instruction et l'éducation sont des nécessités. La femme ayant de l'éducation doit apprendre à mettre son éducation au servcice de la communauté. Mme. Menon ne favorise pas les places réservées pour les femmes aux parlements, car ceci est une autre forme de discrimination. Mme. Dahlsgaard donna un compte rendu des activités politiques des femmes en Danemark, et Mme. Kastner parla du travail exécuté en Australie, où le vote était obligatoire. Mme. Celcis (Haïti), nous dit que la première opportunité de voter pour les femmes fut en 1955 pour les elections municipales, et la promesse officielle qu'elles pourraient voter aux élections générales de 1957. Mme. Rasheed (Egypte) avait l'espoir que les femmes auraient leurs pleins droits politiques dans un avenir prochain. * Mme. F.B. de Mel nous montra comment l'influence des femmes avait augmenté à Ceylan. Mme. Paravicini nous dit qu'un nourveau pas vers le vote se faisait sentir en Suisse. Le plébiscite avait refusé jusqu'à ce moment le vote des femmes, mais il y avait un sentiment croissant que le suffrage des femmes avait été, pendant tout ce temps, inclus dans la Constitution de la Suisse, laquelle déclara que, tous le Suisses étaient égaux devant la loi. Si cela pouvait être reconnu, les femmes suisses auraient leurs droits politiques. Les groupes discutant, rapportèrent qu'ils étaient contre les privilèges accordés spécialement aux femmes et contre l'institution de partis femmes, ainsi que contre vote obligatoire. L'éducation politique doit commencer dans la famille et à l'école. L'éducation politique pratique doit être la base d'éxercices pour arriver à être un parfait citoyen. [133] *accordé au printemps 1955 Mme. Spiller lut le rapport de Maître Lehmann, rappelant que le suffrage des femmes avait été, d'abord, le seul but de l'Alliance. Plus tard, ses dessins s'étendirent à inclure la lutte pour l'égalité des droits civils, économiques, moraux et d'éducation. En 1948, ce point fut atteint, quand la Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme fut adoptée. Elle proclamait l'égalité de tous, sans distinction de sexe, de religion ou d'opinion politique. Cependant, en 1955, dans aucun pays, les femmes ne possèdent complètement des droits civils égaux, en ce qui regarde la nationalité, la propriété, la tutelle des enfants, le domicile, etc., surtout dans le cas des femmes mariées. (Ceci fut contesté par la Suède, la Norvège, le Danemark et l'Islande). L'A.I.F. ne s'arrêtera pas, jusqu'à ce que l'article 16 de la Déclaration des Droits de l'Homme, donnant aux femmes la complète égalité dans le mariage, soit inclu dans la Convention d'Application. Dr. (Mme.) Hurustiati Subandrio (Indonésie) lut un rapport extrêmement intéressant sur les systèmes des lois se rapportant aux différentes religions et coutumes, qui mettent obstacles aux moyens d'arriver à l'égalité des droits civils des femmes; elle décrivit les difficultés spéciales de la religion hindou, du système chinois, du bouddhisme et de l'islamisme. Des rapports furent aussi lus par Mme. Basnayake (Ceylan), de Mme. el Kousy (Egypte), et de Mlle. Lily Beata (Côte d'Or d'Afrique). Le résultat des groupes de discusisons fut (1) que: toutes les religions accordaient la justice sociale aux femmes, mais que leurs droits civils étaient inspirés par la coutume et les préjudices qui, quelquesfois, étaient imbus de singications religieuses qui n'en découlaient pas nécessairement. (2): que dans la plupart des pays, il y avait une tendance croissante vers une législation libérale, et une détente des traditions indésirables. (3) Les femmes devraient former une forte organisation pour sauvegarder leurs droits, et voir que la législation possédât tous les moyens effectifs dans ce but. 5. PAIX ET RELATIONS HUMAINES Mme. Corbett Ashby pria instamment les femmes d'user de leur influence pour amener la paix mondiale en prenant une part active à la vie politique, et devenant entre autre, membre des parlements. Mr. J. B. Orrick, Directeur de Centre d'Informations des Nations Unies, à Delhi, expliqua les differents procédéq à suivre pour que les demandes de l'A. I. F. arrivent aux NU. Mlle. Evelyn Rauch, Conseiller de Bienfaisance So- 134 ciale des NU, pour l'Asie, expliqua les types d'Assistance Technique utiles aux Gouvernements: Bourses d'Ecoles, Centres de démonstrations, Conseillers et Experts techniques. La Begum Anwar Ahmed, première Vice Présidente de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme des Nations Unies, nous dit que si l'on jette un regard en arrière, aussi loin que 4.000 ans, l'opinion a été distinctement contre les femmes. Dans beaucoup de pays, une fille était un fardeau; elle devait avoir le maximum de dot et le minimum d'éducation. Durant les dix années écoulées, les Nations Unies ont progressé dans le champ économique et social. L'Assistance Technique peut maintenant être dirigée vers le champ des droits des femmes. Mme. Tenison Woods avait été envoyée pour aider au projet d'enseigner aux femmes du Pakistan, les moyens d'arriver à des positions d'importance. Mme. John Sprague Bauman (Etats-Unis) traita des applications de la force atomique. Nous devons souhaiter la bienvenue à cette force comme étant un bénéfice, même s'il nous faut changer le plan de la vie; elle décrivit son usage en médecine, dans la préservation des aliments, dans l'industrie et dans le développement du filtrage en agriculture. Le Professeur A. W. Mailvaganam (Ceylan) prit ensuite la parole, mais sur un ton plus sérieux, en rappelant aux déléguées la misère immense qui avait accompagné la première Révolution Industrielle, et les pria de bein réfléchir, avant de prendre une décision, sur les conséquences sociales du développement de cette nouvelle force. Il esquisa le développement de la force atomique depuis les premières expériences à Cambridge, et insista sur une distribution plus étendue de la connaissance de cette nouvelle force. Ceylan, par exemple, ne possédait pas encore un seul homme, instruit dans l'usage des isotopes, pour alléger les souffrances du cancer. ACTIVITES CULTURELLES Une Exposition, une organisée par la Commission d'éducation, fut ouverte aux déléguées et au public durant toute la durée de la Conférence. Les sociétés de quatorze pays exposérent des tableaux, des livres et des affiches, illustrant le travail organisé par elles, se rapportant à l'éducation fondamentale, l'éducation professionnelle ettechnique pour les jeunes filles et les femmes, ainsi qu'à l'éducation civile et politique des femmes. La section traitant des illettrées était d'intérêt spécial. UNESCO apporta une très intéressante contribution par l'exposition de tableaux sur l'éducation fondamentale. 135 De nombreux Films présentèrent d'une manière vivante le travail accompli dans les [différents] pays. Un film italien montra la campagne organisée pourcombattre l'ignorance; ce film apporté par Dr. Scelba, nous montra comment des hommes et des femmes des tous les âges, dans un village italien des plus isolés, avaient appris à lire et à écrire, et comment ils avaient eux-mêmes bâti une route reliant leur village avec le monde extérieur. Un autre film, venant de l'Islande, décrivit l'industrie des villages dans ce pays. Les films apporrtés par la délégation du Pakistan montrèrent le travail social et culturel du Pakistan. "Le monde sans Fin" montra les projets de l'UNESCO à Thailand et au Mexique. Tous ces films eurent beaucoup de succès. Une exposition très attrayante d'Arts Décoratifs et d'Artisanat était composé de cadeaux apportés par les déléguées de chaque pays, et furent vendus eu bénéfice des fonds de l'Alliance. Beaucoup de déléguées virent pour la première fois les différentes formes de la Danse et de la Musique Orientales. En plusieurs occasions il y avait des démonstrations de danses Sinhalaises et Kandiennes, et l'Ecole de Kalalaya donne une très belle représentation de la musique et de la danse de l'Inde du Sud. On fit une visite très intéressante au Musée de Colombo où l'on nous montra une collection d'armes d'aborigines australiennes apportée par Mme. Ritschbieth et envoyée par le Directeur du musée de l'Australie Occidentale. TRAVAIL RURAL Les visites dans les différents instituts, suggérènt facilement aux déléguées l'idée de la nécéssité de lier le travail de bienfaisance aux besoins des communautés. Ayant visité la coopérative: "Projet d'Amélioration d'existence", dans le village de Wewelpanawa, il fut prouvé que c'était par l'aide personnel et la coopération combinés avec la direction des travailleurs ruraux, sans distinction de sexe, qui avaient contribué à élever la positiondes femmes. Ce travail est accompli par les sociétés rurales, la plus populaire étant la Lanka Mahiia Samiti. Les déléguées visitèrent le Centre d'Apprentissage de Kanduwela dirigé par la Lanka Mahila Samiti, où les jeunes filles soigneusement choisies, reçoivent un enseignement et un apprentissage compréhensible et étendu, afin qu'elles [puissent] retourner dans leurs villages, comme diretrices et professeurs, pour un travail de bienfaisance pratique. Les délé- 136 guées virent la maison modèle, une crèche-école, et une démonstration de cuisine en plein air. Dans les six acres du Centre d'apprentissage, se trouvent des vergers et des potagers, ainsi que des champs de riz; les jeunes filles apprennent les méthodes modernes de fermage, ce qui fait que les conditions de production de la nourriture vont en s'améliorant, dans les villages. Lady Coomaraswany, la Vice Présidente de l'Associaiton Mondiale des Femmes de la campagne, parla de l'esprit serviable qui inspirait ces apprenties. La difficulté était d'envoyer aux marchés les produits de l'industrie du village, mais cela avait été résolu, à mi-chemin, par les Salles de Ventes Centrales de L. M. S., et par la Société des fabricants de paniers de Kalutara, que les déléguées visitèrent également avec beaucoup d'intérêt. PROJETS D'INSTITUTIONS NATIONALES ET DE BIENFAISANCE Les déléguées visitèrent les hôpitaux, les crèches, les cliniques de régulation de famille, et les écoles; elles visitèrent aussi le Parliament durant un débat sur le Budget, et les déléguées magistrants furent conduites dans les différents Tribunaux. Elles virent ainsi la Cour d'Assises, la Cour d'Appel, en Sessions, et où cette dernière délibérait sur un cas d'avortement. La séance était présidée par le Président de la Cour. La Cour, pour Délits Juvéniles, étant en séance les déléguées purent parler au personnel de Probation. Les déléguées australiennes, étant elles-mêmes magistrats, furent invitées à prendre place à côté des Magistrats Spéciaux. CONTRIBUTEURS Toutes les personnes, venues au Congrès apportèrent leurs tributs à l'organisation du succès de ce Congrès. Nos hôtesses, à Ceylan, sur lesquelles était échu le fardeau de l'organisation et de la réception, étaient doublement responsables de l'heureux succès de cet événement. Le personnel officiel et le Secrétariat de l'Alliance, furent une source inépuisable de conseils et d'attention. UNESCO, la Fondation Asiatique, la Fond Commémoratif Carrie Chapman Catt, et d'autres sociétés, aidèrent par de généreuses donations, pour les dépenses d'administration et de voyage; et aussi, en nous envoyant des conférenciers expérimentés. Nous sentions qu'il y a maintenant plusde personnes qu'autrefois, qui réalisent la valeur de travail de l'A. I. F., et qu'une appréciaiton ainsi qu'une reconnaissance plus grandes, furent accordées à ce Congrès du Jublié d'Or de l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes. Margaret Mathieson, Rapporteur. 137 LE COMITE EXECUTIF ET LES MEMBRES ACTIFS Ester Graff fut réélue Présidente, à l'unanimité, et cette annonce fut accueillie avec applaudissements. Trois anciens membres du Comité qui, pendant plusieurs années, avaient servi le mouvement féministe avec grande distinction, furent adjointes à Adèle Schreiber, comme Vice-Présidentes Honoraires, elles sont:- Marie Ginsberg 5(E..U.A.), Bessie Rischbieth (Australie), et Nina Spiller (Royaume Uni). Eva Kolstad (Norvège) fut réélue Trésorière Honoraire, et Antoinette Quinche (Suisse) Secrétaire Honoraire. Ezlynn Deraniyagala (Ceylan), Safiyeh Firouz (Iran), Andrée Lehmann (France), et Bertha Lutz (Brésil), furent élues Vice-Présidentes. Sept nouveaux membres furent les bienvenues au Comité: - Anwar Ahmed (Pakistan), la Première Vice-Présidente de la Commission de la Condition de la Femme des Nations Unies, est une ancienne amie de l'A.I.F.; Edith Anrep (Suède) est Secrétaire du Bureau Central de la Fredrika-Bremer-Förbundet et Secrétaire de l'Institut National de Recherches; Leila Basnayake (Ceylan), Secrétaire Honoraire de la Conférence des Femmes de Tout Ceylan, est aussi membre du Comité Consultatif pour le développement du Travail social des Femmes, et également du Conseil des Hôpitaux de Colombo; Hacer Bizden-Boray (Turquie), membre du Conseil de l'Association des Femmes Turques, est Entomologiste et Ingénieur agricole, ayant fait des recherces sur les statistiques agricoles pour le Ministère de l'Agriculture; Daniela Celcis (Haiti), est Secrétaire Internationale de la Ligue Féminine d'Action Sociale; son travail pour l'éducation et la Croix-Rouge a été de tout premier ordre; Mary Francken (Pays-Bas), une Educatrice, a été Directrice d'une école aux Indes Néerlandaises; Wadea Kaddoura Khartabil (Liban), Présidente de la Ligue Palestinienne Arabe des Femmes au Liban, est aussi PRésidente du Comité Politique de l'Université Américaine: "l'Association Alumni", et membre actif d'autres comités; Terue Otsuki (Japon), Conférencière en Sociologie à l'Université de Femmes du Japon, Secrétaire Internationale de la Ligue des Femmes électrices du Japon, est aussi Secrétaire Honoraire du Comité de l'Association S. E. des Femmes Asiatiques, et a aidé à établir le Bureau des Femmes et des Mineurs au Ministère du Travail au Japon. 138 Les Présidentes des cinq Commissions Permanents continueront comme auparavant, mais un sicième Comité sera ajouté: un Comité Financier, ayant Hanna Rydh comme Présidente. Le Comité des Admission continuera comme auparavant, et Ezlynn Dériniyagala, Edith Anrep, et Antoinette Quinche furent nommées membres d'un Comité Ad Hoc pour des modifications des Status. LES PLAISIRS DU CONGRES CEYLAN, évocation de l'Orient, poésie qui remonte au fond des âges. C'est avec ce sentiment que nous partons pour Colombo au Jubilé d'or de l'A. I. F. A l'arrivée, nos yeux s'ouvrent sur la capitale. Port de mer, aux édifices multiples, anciens et modernes, aux rues sillonnées de véhcules les plus divers: autos, pousse-pousse, charettes traînées par des petits boeufs, aux passants dans leurs cosumtes bigarrés, européens ou locaux. Premier contact avec nos collègues des nations d'Asie, d'Afrique, d'Amérique, d'Australie, et d'Europe. Puis la réception du Comité Général de la Société de All-Ceylon Women's Conférence, notre hôtesse, dans la maison de sa Présidente, Mme Ezlynn Deraniyagala, réalise notre secrète aspiration aux merveilleux! Dans les grands jardins frais, les pelouses sont entourées par de multiples cassolettes posées à terre où brûle de l'huile. La lumière douce qui s'en échappe envelopp ls grands arbres et la houppe des palmiers se dessinant sous les feux de Bengale, montrent des teintes inattendues et féeriques. Les dames de Colombo invitées, ajoutèrent à ce charme, la grâce de leurs sarris, de leurs bijoux, copiés peut-être sur ceux que portait la Reine de Saba, car, dit-on, les joyeux, dont elle était couverte, avaient été travaillés par les artisans Singhalais. L'ardeur de l'accueil que toutes nous réserve se retrouve encore dans les mille gourmandises offertes. C'est le premier jubilé intime. Une soirée nous est offerte par le Premier Ministre, Sir John Kotelawela dans sa résidence, aux environs de Colombo. Les immenses jardins sont illuminés, les grands arbres scintillent, constellés de feux électriques, et semblent porter de grands fleurs brillantes. Une promenade à dos d'éléphant s'offre aux déléguées, et c'est avec joie que plusieurs d'entre elles se hasardent à ce sport, aidées par le Premier Ministre en per- 139 sonne. Une représentation des danseurs suit, accompagnés par une musique houée sur des intruments dont certains sont semblables à ceux des siècles passés. C'est le piquant du tableau. Le travail du Congrès fut agrémenté aussi par de nombreuses réceptions et dîners. Citons, pour ne citer que quelques-uns - en nous excusant de ne pouvoir citer tous - le thé d'accueil de Jubilé de l'A. I. F., où un gateau magnifique autant qu'excellent, couvert du nombre traditionnel de bougies, fut allumé et coupé par les deux Présidentes d'honneur, Dr. Rydh et Mrs. Corbett Ashby, ainsi que la Présidente, Miss Graff, et offert aux déléguées dans le beau jardin du "Eighty Club". De même Mme de Mel, offrit un souper et réception pendant que Lady de Soysa invitait d'autres délélguées. Lady Wijeyekoon absente à Londres, avait prié sa fille Mme T. s. V. Tillakeratne de recevoir les membres de Comité exécutif dans sa belle maison, 55 personnes y passèrent une soirée charmente. Mme Kannangara offrit un déjeuner, et Mme Billimoria invita des déléguées dans sa maison près du lac. - Les Hauts Commissaires de plusieurs pays reçurent aussi leurs déléguées, et Begum Haleema Sattar Saith invita beaucoup de déléguées à rencontrer les déléguées du Pakistan. La Ligue Muslumane invita à un thé amical. Les danses orientales de la Kalalaya School furent très appréciées. La Ligue de Service social et les Professeurs d'Economie domestique reçurent des déléguées, de même l'Association des Jeunes Filles Guides. Un dîner de l'Association des Femmes Hindoues doit terminer la liste des invitations. Sans oublier une quantité d'autres dîners et de réceptions nous terminerons donc en parlant de la réception de S. E. le Gouverneur Général, Sir Oliver Goonetilleke en son Palais de Queen's House où environ mille invités se trouvèrent dans les jardins lumineux. Occasion unique pour de nombreux contacts. Bien que l'A.I.F. n'eut ni d'éléphants, ni de danseurs, pas même de feux de Bengale pour répondre à l'hospitalité de Ceylan, le Dîner d'adieu au Galle Face Hotel fut un événement inoubliable avec le Maire de Colombo, Dr. N. M. Perera comme invité d'honneur de l'A.I.F. La Présidente d'honneur, Dr. Hanna Rydh, dans une allocation spirituelle prononçant des remerciements à nos hôtesses parla sur des bruits qui couraient de l'Islande à l'Australie et embrassant l'univers entier de l'envoi d'une invitation de venir dans une île féerique; des femmes de 29 pays s'y rendirent, se demandant si l'île féerique 140 n'était qu'un mirage, mais grâce à ses habitants l'île féerique devint la réalité à Colombo et en tout Ceylan. Mme. Jainudeen, Vice-Présidente de la All-Ceylon Women's Associaiton et doyenne des services de soins aux malades de l'île y répondit d'une manière charmante en parlant de notre camaraderie et amitié mutuelle. Puis le Maire, Dr. Perera, porta le toast de l'A. I. F en exprimant sa compréhension et appréciation des buts et du programme de l'A. I. F., nous souhaitant grand succès pour le second cinqantenaire. Notre Présidente, Miss Ester Graff, répondit au toast et remercia de nouveau, chaleureusement, tous ceux qui nous s'étaient joints dans ce bel esprit de coopération et exprima le voeu que l'A. I. F. poursuive son chemin ver son but: la vraie Egalité. Pour conclure la soirée un Merci universel fut prononcé par une représentante de chacun des 29 pays qui se leva et dit "Merci" à nos hôtesses dans la langue de son pays. La parole finale était réservée à la Présidente d'honneur la plus ancienne, Mrs. Corbett Ashby, qui pria les hommes qui avaient relâché la puissance de l'énergie nucléaire avec son immense potentiel de construciton ou de destruction, de faire leur possible pour relâcher la puissance de la nature féminine du monde, dont l'effet s'est prouvé partout être pour le bien des vieux et des jeunes, des maladess et des plus tristes. Ce n'est qu'alors que nous saurons, non seulement ce que pourraient réaliser les femmes, mais, ce qui est plus merveilleux, ce que pourraient réaliser les hommes et les femmes ENSEMBLE. VOTE DE REMERCIEMENTS Le Congrès a voté avec enthousiasme des remerciements à Son Excellence Sir Oliver Goonetilleke, Gouverneur Général de Ceylan, pour sa présidence à l'ouverture solennelle du Congrès, pour son discours plein d'encouragement, et également pour sa réception splendide en son palais de Queen's House, occasion unique pour tant de nos membres de le voir en personne; à Son Excellence Sir John Kotelawela, Premier Ministre de Celan, pour la soirée magnifique offerte en sa résidence particulière, où nous nous sommes réjouies de la présentation des danseurs Kandyans dont la beauté restera dans notre souvenir pour toujours; 141 au Dr. N. M. Perera, Maire de Colombo, pour son discours gracieux d'accueil à la cérémonie d'ouverture, pour sa présence à notre dîner d'adieux, et pour son appréciation de notre travail; à la Présidente et au Comité ainsi qu'à tous les membres individuels de la All-Ceylon Women's Conference pour tous les soins qu'elles ont mis dans l'organisation du Congrès qui fit disparaître toutes les difficultés, pour leur hospitalité infatigable nous donnant l'occasion bien rare d'être invitées dans de charmantes maisons particulières en Ceylan où nous avons eu le sentiment d'être de la famille; aux conférenciers et conférencières, brillants, qui n'avaient reculé devant aucune difficulté pour nous présenter des renseignements et suggestions inestimables, et dont les exposés devinrent des sources d'inspiration et d'information, aux présidentes des commissions, et aux auteurs du ,,Journey towards Freedom"; au personnel de Ceylan et de l'étranger, volontaire ainsi que payé, toujours souriant et empressé quod qu'il s'agissait de manier les machines à écrire ou de donner des renseignements; aux directeurs et directrices des institutions, surtout du Musée, de la Kalalaya School de dances orientales, de la Lanka Mahila Samiti, des jeunes filles Guides, du Tourisme de Ceylan, et à beaucoup d'autres qui nous ont fait apprécier la civilisation et les services sociaux florissants de Ceylan. Des remerciements spéciaux furent volés avec enthousiasme à l'Unesco pour ayant aidé des membres et des conférenciers à venir au Congrès; à la Asia Foundation pour pareille aide très appréciée; au Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund pour l'aide financière à la publication du ,,Journey towards Freedom", et pour l'assistance inestimable et toujours souriante et imperturbable efficacité de Mme Halsey: et finalement, mais ce qui n'est pas le moins important, à la Mère Supérieure du Ste. Bridget pour avoir mis à notre disposition le très joli Couvent. 142 PROGRAMME DE TRAVAIL 1955--1958 pour l'Alliance Internationale des Femmes et ses sociétés, basé sur les résolutions et recommandations adoptées par le Con grès de Jubilé, réuni à Colombo, en août 1955. Egalité Civile et Droits Politiques L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes s'efforcera, par l'intermédiaire de ses sociétés affilées: D'OBTENIR L'INCLUSION de l'art. 16 de la Déclaration universelle des Droits de l'Homme dans le Pacte d'application de cette Déclaration; D'OBTENIR LA RATIFICATION le plus tôt possible de la Convention des Nations Unies sur les droits politiques de la femme par ceux des Etats qui ne l'ont pas encore ratifiée; DE REDOUBLER d'efforts pour que les femmes obtiennent les droits politiques (qui sont la source de tous les autres droits) dans ceux des pays qui ne leur ont pas encore accordé l'égalité politique, c'est-à-dire dans un pays d'Europe la Suisse et dans onze pays des autres continents l'Afghanistan, l'Arabie saoudite, Costa Rica, l'Egypte, l'Ethiopie, le Honduras, l'Iran, l'Irac, la Jordanie, le Nicaragua, et le Yemen; D'AGIR AUPRES DES GOUVERNEMENTS pour qu'ils suivent et mettent en oeuvre la recommandation de l'ECOSOC, adopté en juillet 1954, qui invite les Etats-membres de l'ONU à pendre toutes mesures nécessaires pour éliminer de leur législation toutes les dispositions du régime matrimonial de droit commun contraires à l'égalité des droits des époux, prévue dans la Déclaration universelle des Droits de l'Homme: D'AGIR AUPRES DES GOUVERNEMENTS pour qu'ils suivent et mettent en oeuvre la recommandation de l'ECOSOC, adoptée en juillet 1954, qui invitait les Etats membres de l'ONU à prendre toutes les mesures nécessaires destinées à garantir à la femme mariée le droit de choisir une profession indépendante, de l'exercer et de disposer librement du produit de son travail; DE CREER parmi les femmes elles-mêmes un mouvement fortement organisé afin d'obtenir la mise en application des droits garantis par la législation. Les droits des femmes sont souvent restreints par d'anciennes coutumes et par des préoccupations provenant de circonstances historiques; 143 D'ENTREPRENDRE des campagnes pour l'éducation politique des femmes citoyennes; Egalité de droits Economiques L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes s'efforcera, par l'intermédiaire de ses sociétés affiliées: D'ORGANISER des Bureaux d'informations pour femmes ou pour femmes et enfants, soit dans le cadre de l'administration gouvernementale soit sous forme de bureaux privés, dans les pays où les femmes les estiment utiles et désirent les avoir; D'ENTREPRENDRE une campagne spéciale de propagande et d'action, afin d'amener les Gouvernements à ratifier la Convention No. 100 de l'OIT sur l'égalité de rémunération entre la main d'oeuvre masculine et la main d'oeuvre féminine pour un travail de valeur égale; elle n'a été ratifiée que par les pays suivants: Autriche, Belgique, Cuba, République Domini. caine, France, Mexique, Philippines, Pologne, et Yougoslavie; DE CONTINUER L'ETUDE du travail à mi-temps en tant qu'élément essentiel de l'organisation du travail, son but étant de donner aux travailleurs des deux sexes la possibilité de choisir ce mode de travail dans des conditions équitables, lorsqu'ils le désirent pour des motifs de santé, de diminution de forces ou d'autres circonstances spéciales; DE RECUEILLIR, avec l'aide de l'ONU et éventuellement de ses institutions spécialisées, des renseignements statistiques sur la structure économique des pays membres et sur les effets de la législation sociale et de la législation du travail, afin que les projets destinés à améliorer le statut des femmes soient basés sur des faits déterminés. Egalité d'Education L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes s'efforcera, par l'intermédiaire de ses sociétés affiliées : DE CHERCHER A RESOUDRE les problèmes et les besoins de l'éducation de base de la société, en tenant compte spécialement des progrès de l'éducation des femmes; D'ENCOURAGER la formation de dirigeantes parmi les femmes de la campagne, dans les pays où le besoin s'en fait sentir, en insistant sur la nécessité pour elles de travailler dans leur propre région ou dans une région semblable à la leur; D'INSISTER auprès des Gouvernements pour qu'ils appliquent leur législation sur l'instruction primaire obligatoire pour les 144 garçons et les filles, dans les pays où cette législation existe mais n'est pas encore mise en application; DE DEMANDER que les jeunes filles aient accès dans les mêmes conditions que les garçons à l'éducation secondaire et d'insister pour que cette éducation secondaire soit organisée, là où elle ne l'est pas encore; DE VEILLER à ce qu'un nombre suffisant de places soient prévues pour les femmes dans les univssités et que les places actuelles soient utilisées au maximum, de veiller également à ce que les Instituts de hautes études techniques et professionnelles soient ouverts aux femmes dans les différents pays. Unité de la Morale L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes s'efforcera, par l'intermédiaire de ses sociétés affiliées: D'ENCOURAGER l'adoption d'une morale élevée et égale pour les deux sexes; D'ETUDIER les moyens d'assurer l'adhésion loyale et con sciente de jeunes gens et jeunes filles à cette morale et, à cet égard, d'encourager l'étude des méthodes existant pour pré parer les jeunes gens des deux sexes au mariage et à une véritable vie de famille; DE FAIRE ABOLIR les maisons de tolérance dans les pays où elles existent, celles-ci constituant la plus puissante incitation à la traite des femmes et créant l'impression fausse qu'il existe un certain niveau de moralité pour les hommes et un autre pour les femmes. Dans les pays où ces maisons n'existent pas, l'A. I. F. s'efforcera d'aider et d'appuyer les sociétés qui luttent contre la réglementation sous toutes ses formes; DE LUTTER pour l'abolition des lois ou coutumes qui dégradent les femmes ou les réduisent à la situation de biens mobiliers; DE FAIRE PRESSION auprès des Gouvernements pour qu'ils envoient des délégués à la Conférence qui sera convoquée sous peu par les N. U. pour étudier l'élaboration d'une convention internationale sur les pensions alimentaires et la filiation illégitime; d'étudier les conclusions de cette Conférence en vue de toute action nécessaire. Dans les pays où le problème des épouses et des mères abandonnées se pose ave urgence, de proposer, d'accord avec le Gouvernement et après consultation de l'Autorité légale appropriée, la question de 145 conventions bilatérales sur les pensions alimentaires et la filiation illégitime. Paix et Relations Humaines L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes réaffirme sa volonté et celle de ses sociétés affiliées; DE FAIRE tout ce qui est en son pouvoir pour encourager les meilleures relations possibles entre toutes les races de l'humanité. Elle déclare qu'elle est opposée à toutes les discriminations basées sur la race, dans les domaines de l'éducation, dans toutes les formes de travail, et dans les professions, ou dans tous les champs de l'activité humaine. D'INSISTER pour que l'assistance technique soit développée au maximum dans les régions où le besoin s'en fait sentir, de demander aux Gouvernements, lorsqu'ils font appel à cette assistance, d'inclure, dans leur requête, l'assistance technique destinée aux besoins de la femme; DE REPANDRE beaucoup plus largement, dans ses groupements et parmi ses membres, les informations fournies par l'ONU et par l'UNESCO; DE CONTRIBUER à faire respecter et comprendre la valeur morale de chaque pays; D'ORGANISER des comités de réception, des clubs inter nationaux ou tous autres moyens permettant d'offrir l'hospi talité aux membres voyageant dans d'autres pays que le leur. Finances Afin de permettre de poursuivre et de développer les activités de l'A, I. F., les sociétés affiliées et les membres individuels s'engagent à soutenir financièrement l'association. Cet appui se fera selon des propositions de la commission des finances de l'A. I. F. Un moyen important à signaler est l'adhésion de membres individuels. 146 LIST OF DELEGATES Hon. Presidents: Mrs. M. Corbett Ashby, Wickens, Birch Grove, Haywards Heath, Sussex., U. K Dr. Hanna Rydh, Johannesgatan 20, Stockholm, Sweden. BOARD MEMBERS Miss Ester Graff (President), Vester Sögade 48, Copenhagen, Denmark. Mrs. Ezlynn Deraniyagala (Vice-President), 15 Race Course Ave., Colombo 7, Ceylon. Princess Safiyeh Firouz (Vice-President), 122, Avenue Pasteur, Teheran, Iran. Mrs. Amy Bush, 45 Magdalen Road, London S. W. 18. U, K. Miss Chave Collisson, 10 Thurlow Road, London N. W. 3, U. K. Miss Margaret Mathieson, Corkers Wood, Penn, Bucks., U. K. Mrs. Carmela Renner, Fintry House, Penn. Road, Bucks., U. K. Dr. Teresita Sandesky-Scelba, Via Fontanella di Borghese 48, Rome, Italy. Mrs. Nina Spiller, 7 Kensington Park Gardens, London W. 11, U.K Begum Saida Waheed, 7 Court Street, Lahore, Pakistan. AUSTRALIA Mrs. B. M. Rischbieth (Leader), Literary Institute, 547 Hay Street, Perth, Western Australia. Miss Edith Hedger, 71 Barkly Street, St. Kilda, Melbourne, Victoria. Mrs. Winifred Kastner, 547 Hay Street, Perth, Western Australia. Rev. Winifred Kiek, Parkin College, St. Peters, Adelaide, South Australia Mrs. Eva Loveday, 18 Richmond Street, North Perth, Western Australia. Mrs. Ruby Rich, 6 Etham Avenue, Darling Point, Sydney, New South Wales. BRAZIL Mrs. Sophia Jobim Magno de Carvalho, rua Dr. Kulio Otoni 580, Sta. Tereza, Rio de Janeiro. 147 CEYLON Mrs. Sylvia Fernando (Leader), 2 Paget Road, Colombo 7. Dr. Florence Aluvihare, 8 Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4. Mrs. Leila Basnayake, 39 Elibank Road, Colombo 5. Miss Kulam Breckenridge, 45 Flower Road, Colombo 7. Mrs. Marjorie de Mel, 23 Horton Place, Colombo 7. Mrs. Moodah Jaimon, 70 High Level Road, Kirillapone, Colombo 6. Mrs. M. A. Jainudeen, 14 Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 3. Mrs. S. Meegama, 54 Vajira Road, Colombo 5. Mrs. C. L. Motwani, Buddhist Ladies College, Turret Road, Colombo 7. Mrs. R. Navaratnam, 16 Mary's Road, Colombo 4. Mrs. A. S. F. Perera, 16 Alfred Place, Colombo 3. Mrs. Ayisha Rauf, 500 Galle Road, Wellawatte, Colombo 6. Alternates: Mrs. E de Zoya, 474 Galle Road, Colombo 3. Mrs. Chelvathi Muthukrishna, Krishna Villa, 30 Galle Road, Colombo 6. DENMARK Mrs. Inga Dahlsgaard (Leader), Vermehrensvej 8, Klampenborg. Miss Marie Graff, St. Kongensgade Copenhagen. Mrs. Elisabeth Jürgens, Kongensgade 59, Copenhagen. Mrs. Lizzi Moesgaard, Callisensvej 11, Hellerup. Mrs. Klara L Petersen, Jyllingevej 91, Copenhagen. Mrs. K. Grove Rasmussen, Realskolen, Fredericia EGYPT Mrs. Bahega Sdky Rasheed (Leader), 2 Darech Saad, Cairo. Mrs. Ihsan El Kousy, Road 10 Maadi, Cairo. Mrs. Matilda Elhamy Greiss, 215 Nahdet Misr Street, Cairo. FRANCE Mrs. L. Bernard, 10 rue de Brazza, Putcaux (Seine). GERMANY Dr. Else Ulich Beil (Leader), Lietzensee Ufer 3, Berlin-Charlottenburg 5. Mrs. Emmy Engel-Hansen, Frauenlobstr. 31, Frankfurt Main. GREAT BRITAIN Miss Marian Reeves (Leader). Minerva Club, 28 Brunwick Square, London W. C. 1. Mrs. May V Davidson, 67 Warren Road, Wanstead, London E. 11 148 Miss Theresa Garnett, 152 Makepeace Mansions, Highgate, London N. 6. Mrs. H. M. Haigh, 1 Hamlet Court, Queens Road, Cowes Isle of Wight. Mrs. Alice Hemming, 35 Elsworthy Road, London N. W. 3 . Mrs. Anne E. J. King-Hall, 16 Gloucester Place, London W. 1. Mrs. Myra Sadd Stedman, 49 Valley Drive, Withdean, Brighton 5. Miss L Tovey, 6 Gossage Rd., Plumstead, London S.E., 18. Alternates: Mrs. Enid Alexander, 29 St. Paul's Place, Canonbury. Emerin S. Chute, 63 Addison Road, London W. 14 HAITI Mrs. Daniela Celcis, c/o Electric Light Co., Port-au-Prince. ICELAND Mrs. Sigridur Magnusson (Leader), Laugaveg 82, Reykjavik. Mrs. Holmfridur Jonsdottir, Isafjord. IRAN Princess Safiyeh Firouz, 122 Avenue Pasteur, Teheran. IRAQ Mrs. Azza Istrabadi (Leader), Queen Alıya College. Baghdad. Mrs. Suad Al Umari, Baghdad. ISRAEL Mrs. Fay Doron, 8 Hateena St., Neve David, Tel-Aviv. ITALY Dr. Teresita Sandesky Scelba, Via Fontanella di Borghese 48, Rome. JAMAICA Miss Chandra Goonetilleke, 1 Ripsa Road, Colombo (Ceylon). JAPAN Miss Terue Otsuki, 410 Data 1-chome, Setagaya- ku, Tokyo LEBANON Mrs. Wadea Kaddourah Khartabil, Hamka Bld., Bliss Street, Ras Beirut. 149 NETHERLANDS Miss Mary J. Francken, Hobbemakade 95, Amsterdam-Z-1. PAKISTAN Begun Shamsun Nahar Mahmood (Leader), Plot: 71 A, Dhan-mandi, Dacca. Begun Anwar Ahmed, 43N Block PFCHS, Karachi. Begun Tamen Fandi, c/o APWA, Union Jack Club, Victoria Rd., Karachi. Begun Rashid Hamid. Reservoire no. 2, Islamabad Colon.. Karachi Begun Muntazi Muntaz, Green House, Deepchandojha Rd.. Bunder Rand Ext, Karachi. Begun Fatima Salam, Manson Lane, Chittagong. PHILIPPINES Mrs. Constancia D. Dumlao, San Luis, Ermita, Manila. SWEDEN Mrs. Edith Amer, Riddargatan 76, Stockholm. Mrs Ingrid Allnens, Sturegatan 19, Stockholm. SWITZERLAND Miss Mary Kgrasioni (Leader), Drostelstrasse 43, Basel. Mrs. Alice Christian, Le Locle. Miss Marisa Manzoni, Arbedo. Mrs. Dorthea Müller, Thinstrasse 23, Bern. Mrs. Piera Molo Rolandi, 3 Vista Oficina Bellinzona. Mrs. C. Schreyer-Ruchti, Denzlerstrasse 12, Bern. TURKEY Mrs. Hacer Bizden Boray, Akay sokak 16/10, Ankara. INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN Dr. Elise Ulich-Beil, Germany. Mrs. Piera Molo Rolandi, Switzerland. OBSERVERS Miss Lily Beata, Gold Coast. Mrs. Lakshmi N. Menon, M. P., New Delhi, India. Mrs. N. Visalahshi. India. Mrs. Puska Mchta, India. Mrs. Hussain Aly-Khan, India. Dr. Hurutiati Subandrio, Indonesia. Mrs. Mary Lobo, Malaya. Mrs. Carmela Renner, Sierra Leone. 150 SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVES UNITED NATIONS Mr. James B. Orrick. Miss Evelyn Rauch. UNESCO Dr. Spencer Hatch. FRATERNAL DELEGATES FROM INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS. The Asia Foundation: Mrs. Mary Lobo Carrie Chapman Catt Memorial Fund Inc.: Mrs. Elisabeth T. Halsey. Associated Country Women of the World: Lady de Soysa. St. Joan's International and Political Alliance: Mrs. Noel de Fonseka. International Committee of Women's International Organizations: Mrs. M. Corbett Ashby. World Fed. of Ukranian Women's Organization: Mrs. N. M. Hlinianska-Szechowsky. Mrs. Helen Prociuk. World's Women's Christian Temperance Union: Mrs. Dora Godlieb. World's Young Women's Christian Association: Mrs. A. E. Keuneman. OBSERVERS FROM CEYLONESE ORGANIZATIONS Association of Teachers of Domestic Science: Mrs. A. E. Dharmadase. Ceylon Social Service League: Mrs. Ernest Soysa. Church of Ceylon Board of Women's Work: Mrs. E. E. S. de Silva. Colombo Y. W. C. A.: Lady Coomaraswany. Lanka Mahila Samiti: Mrs. Loraine Seneratna. 151 INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Mrs. Kathijah Deen, Ceylon. Mrs. J. A. Fernando, " Miss Lakshmi Gunawarhana, " Miss Muth Lakshmi Sankei Iyar, " Miss Elisabeth Johns, " Mrs. Manu Muthu Krishna, " Miss Alagie Muthu Krishna, " Mirs. R. A. Nelson, " Miss Dhun Nilgiria, " Mrs. Hamida Pallie, " Mrs. Daisy Perera, " Mrs. D. W. Rajapatirana, " Dr. Mary Rutnam, " Miss Lena E. Wickramaratne, " Miss Padmini Casinader, Denmark. Miss Louisa Hemming " Mrs. Dorothy S. Bauman, U. S. A. Mrs. Alonso Petteys, " Mrs. Lorna Warfiel, " 152 Secretariat: VESTER SØGADE 48, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK Price: 5 sh. Printed in Denmark Charles Leisners Bogtrykkeri A/S Copenhagen APPENDIX A REPORT ON ALLIANCE WORK 1939 to 1945 Since our Copenhagen Congress, our whole work has been completely interrupted and disorganized by the outbreak of war. At the meeting of the International Committee held immediately after the conclusion of the Congress, the principal plans discussed were for the work of the various International Committees. Alas, we have to report that none of those plans could be carried out. Although letters were sent asking societies to name their new representations to these Committees, practically no nominations were received as war had already broken out and in most countries women were already having to turn their energies to immediate problems. Until March 1940 when the Board of the Alliance was able to meet in Paris, it was still possible to maintain contacts and make plans. But almost immediately thereafter the war took on it's total character and the result was constantly increasing difficulty and restriction in communications. Even where postal services still operated, mail was slow and uncertain. Most fortunately we have throughout been able to maintain contact between London and our Hon. Secretary, Mlle Gourd in Geneva, though at some periods with difficulty and delay. What has been our work during these years? The larger part of real international work has been done in co-operation wit the Liaison Committee of Women's International Organisations which has met regularly in London. Deputations were taken to every Government represented in London to present resolutions on women's right to work and need for equal status. Efforts were made to ensure that women were eligible for real participation both in the Allied military Government Organisation and in UNRRA. Governments and other official bodies have also been approached don many other matters affecting women and their war and post-war activities and status. In contact with women from many other countries - especially where their Governments were functioning in various questions, such as health and housing, as well as citizenship and nationality. Through these contacts, it was shaped to get a common viewpoint not unfortunately achieved. It may yet permit the Liaison Committee to present certain points of view at future international conferences. The Liaison Committee organised a most successful course of training for social work to fit women to return to their countries ready to give skilled help in relief and rehabilitation. The course was so good that the whole plan was taken over by the British Council which has organised several series on the same lines. Approaches have also been made to the I.L.O. and other international bodies to ensure that women's interests and points of view were not forgotten and that suitable women were included in delegations to the international conferences such as Dumbarton Oaks and San Francisco. The Committee also sent to the San Francisco Conference a Declaration on fundamental equality and human rights. Apart from this this work with the Liaison Committee, the Alliance has sent separately letters and memoranda to the I.L.O on the need for economic equality, to various governments and so on, and to such of its auxiliaries as it could reach to urge the appointment of women to their official delegations to conference etc. We are glad to know that our efforts helped to secure the appointment of Dr. Bertha Lutz as an official delegate from Brazil to the I.L.O Conference last year and to San Francisco. During the years when no international meeting was possible, the small group of Board members in London has met from time to time to consider various questions. That of the continuance of International Women's News During the war is delay with separately. *Mrs. Corbett Ashby, Mrs. Schreiber, Mrs. Spiller and Mrs. Rischbieth. 2 In 1942, it was decided to approach the main women's international organisations to consider the possibility of holding a joint meeting directly it became possible. It seemed firstly that as a travel will for long be difficult and costly and as many women belong to several of the organisations, simultaneous and joint meetings would be a practical proposal. Secondly the future of women's international work, whatever its special nature, will have to be reconsidered in view of the great changes which have taken place and a greater measure of contact on co-operation would be desirable. So these organisations were asked to give us their views on the general proposition which were on the whole favourable. Two further letters were sent with suggestions for preliminary consultations. But the interest originally shown was not maintained and the effort failed. We still think the idea worth pursuing but perhaps any further suggestion would have to come from some other source than the Alliance. It has been a point of honour to continue as far as possible the ordinary routine work. Accounts have been kept and correspondence carried on as usual as far as possibilities permitted. Every society we could reach has continued to keep in touch with us and to pay its fees. Since the end of the war, contacts have been gradually renewed with liberated countries but after such a break we feel that personal contacts are essential for a renewal of co-operation of an active kind. Contacts were made with a number of women from other countries living over here but it so happened that few among those who came to England had been members of our national societies, and the Alliance was careful not to make any formal ties which might later have created difficulties. We organised several series of tea-meetings to give these women and our British members the opportunity of meeting each other and learning something of women's doing and views both in Great Britain and other countries. This is a very brief report and the results must inevitably seem small. Intensive international work was not possible but it seemed to us in England that we were trustees for the continuance of the Alliance in being, so that when the moment came for reunion, we could present our colleagues from other countries with a nucleus of organisation and contacts ready to start work again on a wider programme. While we recognise with thankfulness our good fortune, we know that you will all realise that even for us conditions have not been easy. Though all our colleagues here have escaped serious damage, nearly five years of bombardment from the air in many forms has been our lot and that with other difficulties has made life hard and complicated. If we say so much, it is because we must ask you to realise that we have tried to do our best in the circumstances. We hope that you will feel that the expenditure incurred has been worth while to prevent the Alliance from going completely into abeyance. It seemed to us, and still seems to us that had that happened it would have been practically impossible to revive it. APPENDIX B FINANCIAL REPORT It is six years since our last Congress and for such a long period it is impossible to present detailed accounts which would involve a long document. The accounts have of course been kept and examined by the President and Treasurer at the end of each year and found correct. What seems wanted for consideration now is a general statement of expenditure and income and a survey of the actual financial position at this moment. INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR SIX YEARS JULY 1939 to JUNE 1945 In round figures this has been: Income Donations 71 Members fees 373 Affiliation fees 309 I.W. News 1939-40 74 Miscellaneous 46 873 Expenditure Salary (6 years at £250) 1500 I.W.N 1939 to 1940 100 Printing & Stationery 30 Telephone and Telegrams 50 Postages 60 Mlle Gourd's expenses 1939 & 1940 45 Miscellaneous 85 1870 The salary item looks disproportionate but it has in fact covered office room provided at the Secretary's home with heating, cleaning and lighting and a reduction on telephone charges, etc. The Board as far as it has been possible to consult members has considered that the retention of a secretary was essential if the Alliance was to be kept in being. For a year there was also the work of editing the paper. COPENHAGEN BUDGET After the Copenhagen Congress the Board adopted a budget which showed capital resources estimated at £1,000 and a yearly income of £350 or £1050 for the 3 years covered by the budget, July 1939 to June 1942. That made available for the 3 years a total of £2050. Comparing this figure with the above, it will be seen that although the income figure for 6 years was less than that estimated for only 3, resources intended for three years have been stretched to cover 6, and still show a balance of £3. In fact our balance on what remains of our reserves is £28, as some interest has accrued during these years. We hope that this result will be regarded as satisfactory in the very difficult circumstances. It has been achieved by making immediate and drastic economies directly war broke out. The office was at once given up and the greater part of the records and furniture was stored free by the kindness of Mrs. Ashby, some of the furniture being sold as it was in a bad state. PRESENT POSITION It was foreseen at Copenhagen that at the end of June 1942 the Alliance would have practically exhausted its resources and would have to raise new funds to hold its next Congress and carry on for another three years. That position will be much the same in, say, a year's time when we must try to have our Congress, with one very important exception. Our Founder Mrs. Catt, has given to the Alliance a sum of $5,000 which she had intended to leave as a legacy in her will. To avoid difficulties she has most generously put the money aside for us in charge of our Auxiliary in the U.S.A., and has expressed the hope that it will enable the Alliance to pay for a Congress without the practically impossible task in present international conditions of raising a special fund. Apart therefore from the question of Congress expenses, we must consider how to carry on until that Congress can be held. The actual financial position is this: apart from the balance of £28 referred to above now in the British Post Office Savings Bank, and a small balance on our current bank account which will take us to the end of this year, we have - also in the Post Office - a sum of £363 realised by the sale of some Brazil Bonds invested thus many years ago from a legacy left to the Alliance. The Bonds were for many years practically valueless, but as a result of a settlement by the Government of Brazil, last year they rose in value and when they reached the figure of £72 for each nominal £100 worth of stock, we sold them with this result. This sum represents with the small income which we still receive, the possibility of carrying on our normal work for a year from the end of 1945, i.e. throughout 1946. If during that year we are not able to plan for a Congress, the question of carrying on so as to be able to organise it later will present acute problems of finance. I have made this report as brief as possible so that the essential point may be simple and clear. I would only add that while there has been an inevitable drop in our income owing to the war, all our affiliated societies which could do so have continued to send their fees and the larger part of our individual members also. I do not deal with the question of our paper as that problem is reported upon separately. N. SPILLER Treasurer. APPENDIX C INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS I hope that a good many of the societies will have received at the time the copies of International Women's News and our circular letters in 1940 explaining the measures taken to keep the paper going. I will however state briefly what happened. After the spring of 1940, when country after country became impossible to reach by post from England, the circulation of the News suddenly dropped to almost nothing. That circulation was already small and with this drop, it was obviously impossible to continue to print it. Moreover it was largely dependent on news and women's papers reaching us from other countries, and that source of news was almost closed to us. It was therefore an urgent problem how to keep the paper alive. It survived the first world war and we felt it unthinkable to let it go. It happened that we were in touch with a new group of women in London called the Women's Publicity Planning Association which was trying to give much-needed publicity to the women's movement and to supply information about women for other countries. It wanted to start a periodical but in war-time no new periodicals might be issued. So to put the matter shortly, the Alliance offered to "lend" them International Women's News on conditions which we felt guaranteed the continuance of a feminist policy and some effort at international news. The President was to be Chairman and the Secretary a member of the Editorial Committee and the agreement made provided that we should have the right to take the paper back on suitable notice. On the whole the paper has been kept at a high standard and its policy on feminist questions has been sound. It is true that it has lost its international character very largely but in the circumstances that was inevitable. A fairly wide circulation for such a paper was achieved among women in England and to some extent in the U.S.A. and British overseas countries. The Alliance subscribers in all countries with a postal service from England continued to get their copies, as also the Societies where reachable. The Secretary of the Alliance continued to collect Alliance subscriptions which were of course subsequently paid over to the new direction, as the Alliance had no financial interest whatever in either profits or losses. In fact the paper has been run at a loss throughout and W.P.P.A. now feels that it cannot continue to stand the financial drain. At the end of this year, therefore, it will hand the paper back to us with its subscription list and we have to consider what we can do to carry it on. For this purpose a statement has been prepared of the present position as follows: Present arrangements for printing etc. The paper is printed by the Swindon Press Ltd., at a charge of £21.7s. a month for 1330 copies, which is at the rate of £256.4d. a year. In addition from March 1944 to March 1945 there was a cost of about £8 for wrappers and some small items for reprinting articles etc. The printers despatch only the foreign and complimentary copies amounting to 283 and 717 are sent from I.W.N. office, making a total of 1099. The remainder are spare copies used for propaganda if at all. It is not possible to compare these costs with the Alliance pre-war expenses for the paper as charges have gone up very much for every item. It is probable that the paper could be printed somewhat more cheaply, but the entire despatch would have to be done by the printers as without office help the Secretary could not undertake it. This in present labour conditions would add to the cost. As 137 complimentary copies are issued, there remain 962 which are paid for. The Alliance subscribers continue to pay 6/- a year but the charge made by I.W.M. is 7/- a year. As a rough estimate we might say there are 200 subscribers at 6/- and the rest at 7/-, making a total in subscriptions of £327. At the present rate of expenditure, this means that only printing and postage (amounting at 1d a copy to about £55 a year) are covered by the income. All other costs: Editor, paid articles, rent etc., have to be met otherwise. It is however the case that not all these subscriptions have been paid up and many will in any case probably not be renewed, s o that the income is in fact already less than that shown and liable to decrease. The future possibilities. If the Alliance takes over the paper and cannot afford a special editor nor to pay for articles, it would not be possible to keep the paper at the present standard of general interest. If edited by the Alliance Secretary as an organ for news of the Alliance and its societies, it would not continue to appeal to a large number of its present subscribers. To make it possible to keep the paper going at all a really considerable increase in Alliance subscribers would be necessary. Probably this could only be done on a reliable basis by affiliated societies taking an agreed number of copies and selling them to their members either singly or on a yearly subscription. The general report on Finance will show that there are really no fund from which a subsidy for the paper could be found. It will be seen that the position is difficult and calls for careful consideration and active co-operation from all countries if the Alliance is to keep International Women's News going. Margery I. Corbett Ashby, President. Katherine Bompas, Headquarters Secretary. Addendum In order to take over the paper for the January issue, Mrs. Ashby has formed a small temporary editorial committee, which has undertaken to produce the first three issues of 1946, January, February, March. It is reckoned that the loss on printing will not be largo and the editor will be honorary. The deficits will have to be not from Alliance funds. The idea is that this will permit more time for a permanent plan if it is desired to continue to publish the paper as the organ of the Alliance. Mrs. Street of Australia, who is concerned with the publication of the Australian World's Digest, a feminist paper with certain popular appeal, has made the following proposal: That the Digest and the News be amalgamated and published simultaneously in London and Sydney. The material from each end would be sent by air to the other. She would be prepared to guarantee the East of printing the London addition for a period. The difficulty is that the joint paper would take 56 pages in the present form of the Digest, approximately 7 by 5 inches. Enquiries show that there is no possibility at the present of obtaining anything like the paper required, as the paper control is still strict and at the best the News could hope only for a very small additional amount. The idea is that the more popular form of the Digest would help circulation in Europe, while in Australia, and perhaps in the U.S.A. etc., the informational material would help the circulation of the Australian edition. K.Bompas PÉTITION of the International Alliance of Women to the Peace Conférence.- -:-:-:-:-:-:- The International Alliance of Women meeting in Interlaken in August I946 at the same time as the Peace Conférence is being held in Paris.- Expresses to it its ordent wish that the treaties which are being elaborated there will permit a world order based on justice and the right of peaceful peoples to live in freedom and happiness sheltered from all aggression.- The Alliance regrets that women who have taken part in the war and have suffered equally with the men, have not been call to take an active part in the Peace Conférence.- The Charter of the United Nations invites the différent nations to include women in their delegations and in all their work.- Should not the Paris Peace Conférence be the first to put this principle into practise.- The Alliance which includes at this moment in Interlaken women from 20 différent countries wish deeply.- That the Governements present at the Peace Conférence take cognizance of the present petition and act upon it to the extent of adding women experts to all the study committees and the work of the conférence generally.- IAV INTERNATIONAAL ARCHIEF VOOR DE VROUWENBEWEGING KEIZERSGRACHT 264 - AMSTERDAM-C. - TELEF. 34449 PRESIDENT: ROSA MANUS SECRETARY: W.H. POSTHUMUS - VAN DER GOOT The foundation International Archives for the Women's Movement", heareafter called by its initials in Dutch, I. A. V., has been established by three Dutch Feminists, Miss Johanna W. A. Naber, Miss Rosa Manus and Mrs. Dr. W. H. Posthumus-van der Goot. Through the kind cooperation of the International Institute for Social History the I. A. V. has the use of a spacious suit of rooms at 264 Keizersgracht, Amsterdam C. The aim of the I. A. V. is to provide a national and international centre for the collection of books, pamphlets, photographes, and other documents of importance to the Women's Movement, taken in the broadest sense of the word. The material gathered is sorted out, classified and made accessible to the general public. The institution is being run on scientific lines under the supervision of a fully qualified librarian, miss E. Ferf. In memory of the well-known Aletta Jacobs, doctor and feminist, the Dr. Aletta Jacobs Fund" has been founded, which enables the I. A. V. to issue a yearbook containing communications on the various aspects of women's work and such other publications as may seem useful. A great many of the Dutch women's organisations are cooperating with the I. A. V., and through this leaflet we now make a special appeal to women's societies in other countries and to all who are interested in the women's movement. We beg you: I. to send us regularly your weekly and monthly papers and all publications connected with women's work or with the women's movement, including those in scandinavian, italian, roumanian, tcechoslovaque etc. Even if these publications find no constant readers, it is important to know of a centre, where they can be found when necessary. 2. to make gifts of all surplus books and other records on these subjects, postage being chargeable to the I. A. V., if parcels are announced previously. 3. to subscribe as members or donors to the I. A. V. (Yearly subscription, personal Dutch florins 2.50 or 5.00, societies f. 10.-, donations any amount.) Help the I. A. V. to protect the past to consolidate the present to prepare the future of the Women's Movement. Board of the I. A. V.: Rosa Manus, President Dr. E. Ribbius Peletier, Vice - President Dr. W. H. Posthumus - van der Goot, Secretary Dr. Jane de Iongh, 2nd. Secretary B. Rijkens - Culp, Treasurer Ch. A. Matthes, 2nd. Treasurer Bankers: Vrouwenbank Rotterdamsche Bankvereeniging, Amsterdam Postgiro 84963 Ask us for further information ! INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights Equal Responsibilities ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Droits égaux Repsonsabilités égales REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH CONGRESS INTERLAKEN August 11th—16th, 1946 Headquarters: 45, KINGSWAY, WEMBLEY, MIDDLESEX, ENGLAND INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights. Equal Responsibilities. REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH CONGRESS INTERLAKEN AUGUST 11th––16th, 1946 Headquarters: 45, Kingsway, Wembley, Middlesex, England. INDEX PAGE Auxiliaries: List ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Reports ... ... ... ... ... 50 Board: Members ... ... ... ... ... 3 Report (also incorporating Headquarters Report) ... ... ... ... ... 42 Committees: List and Chairmen ... ... ... 4 Delegates' List ... ... ... ... ... ... 77 Finance: Treasurer's Report ... ... ... ... 29 Foreword ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Frame of the Congress ... ... ... ... ... 7 Greetings ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 In Memoriam ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 International Women's News ... ... ... ... 48 Personal Messages: Mrs. Corbett Ashby ... ... 9 Mrs. Chapman Catt ... ... 10 Resolutions Adopted: English ... ... ... 12 French ... ... ... 20 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN. Hon. President and Founder: MRS. CARRIE CHAPMAN CATT, 120, Paine Avenue, New Rochelle, New York, U.S.A. Hon. President: MRS. MARGERY CORBETT ASHBY, Wickens, Birch Grove, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England. Hon. Vice-President: MRS. ADELE SCHREIBER, 54, Gilling Court, Belsize Grove, London, N.W.3, England. BOARD. President: DR. HANNA RYDH, Johannesgatan 20, Stockholm, Sweden. Vice-Presidents: MME. HODA CHARAOUI PACHA, 2 rue Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo, Egypt. MISS MARIE GINSBERG, 162, West 56th Street, New York, U.S.A. JUDGE DOROTHY KENYON, 50, Broadway, New York City, U.S.A. MME. GERMAINE MALATERRE SELLIER, 57, Avenue Kléber, Paris, 16e, France. MRS. HANSA MEHTA, All India Women's Conference, Gilder Tank Building, Lamington Road, Bombay, India. Corresponding Secretary: MME. ELISABETH VISCHER-ALIOTH, Austrasse 14, Basle, Switzerland. Treasurer: MRS. NINA SPILLER, 32, Argyle Road, Ilford, Essex, England. Members: MRS. ELEANOR ARMITAGE, Royal Empire Society, Northumberland Ave., London, W.C.2., England. MISS FLORENCE BARRY, St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.1, England. MRS. BODIL BEGTRUP, 40, Avergoden, Overvandet, Copenhagen, Denmark. MRS. MARGARETE BONNEVIE, Thomas Heftyesgate 64c, Oslo, Norway. MME. MARGUERITE BOYER, 448, rue Paradis, Marseilles, France. MME. EBOUE, 11-13, rue Michelet, Asnières, Seine, France. MRS. H. D. EVERTS-GODDARD, Esschenlaan 77, Rotterdam, Holland. MME. ALEXANDRA JOANNIDES, Hanion 4b, Athens, Greece. MME. ANDREE LEHMANN, rue Victor Massé 3, Paris, 9e, France. MISS VALBORG LUNDGREN, Grevgatan, 4, Stockholm, Sweden. DR. BERTHA LUTZ, Museu Nacional, Quintada Boa Vista S. Cristovam, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. DR. TERESITA SANDESKY SCELBA, via Fontanella di Borghese 48, Rome, Italy. MISS ANNA LORD STRAUSS, National League of Women Voters, 726, Jackson Place, Washington, D.C., U.S.A. 3 INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEES. Committee for Peace: Chairman: MRS. CORBETT ASHBY. Committee for Equal Civil and Political Rights: Chairman: MME. ANDREE LEHMANN. Committee for Economic Rights: Chairman: MME. MARGUERITE BOYER. Committee for an Equal Moral Standard: Chairman: MISS FLORENCE BARRY. Committee on Finance: Chairman: MRS. SPILLER. SOCIETIES AFFILIATED TO THE ALLIANCE. ARGENTINE.—Asociacion Argentina del Sufragio Feminino. President: Sra. C. Horne de Burmeister, Laprida 1598, Buenos Aires. AUSTRALIA.—Australian Federation of Women Voters. President: Miss Ruby Rich, 6, Etham Avenue, Darling Point, N.S.W. BELGIUM.—Egalité : Groupement féministe. President: Mme. G. Ciselet, 127, Avenue Montjoie, Bruxelles-Uccle. BRAZIL.—Federacao Brasiliera pelo Progresso Feminino. President: Dona Jeronyma Mesquita, rua Evaristo da Veiga 47a, Rio de Janeiro. CZECHOSLAVAKIA.—Société F. F. Plaminkova. Vice-President: Dr. Malinska, Washingtonova 23, Praha II. DENMARK.—Dansk Kvindesamfund. President: Mrs. Ingrid Larsen, Niels Hemmingsensgade 10, Copenhagen. EGYPT.—Union féministe égyptienne. President: Mme. Hoda Charaoui Pacha, 2, Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo. FINLAND.—Federation of Auxiliaries. President: Mrs. Ebba Ostenson, Dagmarg, 11, Helsingfors. FRANCE.—(1) Union francaise pour le Suffrage des Femmes. President : At the moment of going to press we learn with deep regret of the death of Mme. Brunschvieg. A new President is to be elected. (2) Ligue francaise pour le Droit des Femmes. President: Mme. Andreé Lehmann, 3 rue Victor Massé, Paris IXe GREAT BRITAIN.—(1) St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance. Chairman: Miss P. C. Challoner, 55, Berners Street, London, W1 (2) Women's Freedom League. President: Mrs. Corbett Ashby, 144 High Holborn, London, W.C.1. (3) National Women Citizens' Association. (Incorporating National Council for Equal Citizenship). President: Mrs. Karslake, 144 High Holborn, London, W.C.1. Adhering Society: Women for Westminster. 15, Dartmouth Street, London, S.W.1. GREECE.—Ligue Hellénique pour les Droits des Femmes. President: Mme. Theodoropoulos, Dionysos Str. 16, Kifissia, Athens. 4 HOLLAND.—Nederlandsche Vereeniging voor Vrouwenbelangen en gelyk Staatsburgerschap. President: Miss Zeelenberg, Bergsingel, Rotterdam. ICELAND.—Kvenrettinsdafjelag Islands. President: Mrs. Knudsen, 28, Barmahlis, Reykjavik. INDIA.—All-India Women's Conference. President: Mrs. Hansa Mehta, Gilder Tank Building, Lamington Road, Bombay. IRELAND.—Irish Women Citizens' Association. Secretary: Mrs. Kingston, 5 Leinster Street, Dublin, Eire. ITALY.—Alleanza Femminile Italiana per la Liberta, l'Ugualianza e la Pace. President: Dra. Scelba Sandesky, Via Fontanella Borghesa 48, Rome. LEBANON.—Union féministe lebanaise arabe. President: Mme. Roze Chehfa, Boite Postale 291, Beyrouth. NEW ZEALAND.—United Women's Council. Secretary: Mrs. Carmichael, 25 Old Lake Road, Devonport, Auckland, N.1. NORWAY.—Norsk Kvinnesaksforening. President: Mrs. Dakky Kiaer, Havsfjordgate, 26 B, Oslo. PALESTINE.—Jewish Women's Equal Rights Association. President: Dr. A. Brachyahu, P.O. Box 371, Jerusalem. SWEDEN.—(1) Frederika Bremer Forbundet. President: Dr. Hanna Rydh, 48 Klarabergsgatan, Stockholm. (2) Svenska Kvinnors Medborgarforbund. President: Mrs. Hagen, Runebergsgatan 3, Stockholm. SWITZERLAND.—Association suisse pour le Suffrage féminin. President: Mme. Vischer Alioth, Austrasse 14, Basel. SYRIA.—Union des Femmes de Syrie. President: Mme. L'Emir Moiktar Abdelkader, Damascus. UNITED STATES.—National League of Women Voters. President: Miss Anna Lord Strauss, 726 Jackson Place, Washington, D.C. URUGUAY.—Alianza Uruguaya de Mujeres. President: Dr. Paulina Luisi, rue Paragay 1286, Montevideo. 5 FOREWORD Each Congress of the Alliance has had its special atmosphere. In Berlin we fêted our Jubilee with 1,000 delegates present from 46 countries. In Rome Mussolini opened our Congress and having promised the vote to women, rendered it useless to both men and women. In Istanbul we were able to acclaim the first suffrage victory in the Near East with the grant of the vote to Turkish women, for which the Ata Turk received our thanks personally. In Paris it seemed as if the women of France were near to a victory, a victory indeed only snatched from them at the last minute by a financial crisis. Are we too near to Interlaken to realise its full significance? Officially and unofficially women were present from only 21 countries. Yet I believe that, historically, Interlaken begins a new epoch in the women's movement. There was an assurance, a self-confidence, and a sense of real power among the women present. Women were no longer suppliants, but felt they had the exercise and responsibility of power in their hands. The training in the bitter school of resistance movements or of war work, intensive and exhausting in the war factories or on the land, the actual manning of guns and maintenance of aircraft alongside their menfolk, had meant that the younger delegates, especially the M.P.'s of all progressive political parties, had lost all sense of inferiority. They showed a truly womanly concern in the problems of the mother and child, the houseworker and professional woman. Another sign of maturity was the impatience with vague phrases. Since women voters can make and unmake governments we must be concrete and practical. On the other hand, there was evidently, in some delegations, a reluctance to give time and energy to women's status problems because so much of equality had already been achieved that it seemed obvious the rest would follow. This seems to me a profound mistake. For example, men constantly appeal to us women to stop war, but in no country and certainly at no Peace Conference are women admitted to a position in which they can effectively stop war or help to produce a peace of justice and commonsense. There lies the field of our endeavour before the next Congress: the struggle to get women into effective positions of power where peace or war, prosperity or famine are in the balance and policies are not only debated but decided that create the war or the peace of to-morrow. M. I. Corbett Ashby. 6 THE FRAME OF THE CONGRESS The need to keep this Report within modest limits, makes it impossible to print the minutes. It is felt that the Resolutions adopted are the result of the Congress proceedings and are what are mainly needed for future reference. But they can take no account of the formal meetings, nor of social events, nor express the gratitude of the Alliance towards the many who helped to make the Congress a success. Votes of thanks read rather artificially in cold print, but we would like to record thanks to the Swiss Society and especially to its President, Mme. Vischer Alioth, Mme. Leuch, Mlle. Grütter and Mlle. Strub, all actively concerned with the preparations beforehand as with different aspects of the work during the Congress. We add our appreciation of the welcome from the representatives of the Swiss Government, and from the Mayor of Interlaken, given at the Opening Meeting. Nor will we forget a word for the pages, very youthful on this occasion, and pleasant to see moving so earnestly about intent to help, either in the traditional peasant costume or in the uniform of the Girl Guides. The Folklore Society of Interlaken brought a note of colour and harmony to the Opening Meeting, and the Cecilia Choir of Interlaken and a quartet of women instrumentalists from Thun, helped to make our Memorial Session doubly moving. This is the first time, we believe, that an Alliance Congress has been held away from a big centre, and that fact made it quite different. For one thing there could not be so much in the way of official visits or receptions. Free time was really free, and free to enjoy the charm of Interlaken. The tea-party given by the Swiss Society took the form of a very informal and excellent tea in the setting of an Alpine Hotel, way up near the mountains and in the course of an excursion most admirably organised. The Congress meetings themselves were held in the Kursaal through the kindness of the Director and the Committee of Management. And the Kursaal is a holiday place with a holiday atmosphere, so that delegates passed from their debates to the Concert Hall. The peace and friendliness of Switzerland, the quiet and beauty of its setting, all helped to make the Interlaken Congress something of a holiday and a breathing space. That pleasant informality characterised the dinner given by the Maharani of Vizianagram, of the Indian delegation, to the whole Congress, a delightful gesture indicative of the generous hospitality of the East. 7 IN MEMORIAM At each Congress we have had to mourn the passing of old and true friends, but it has been a sadness without bitterness because we felt our friends had passed on to rest after lives of full, rich service to others, lives of the deep happiness that comes from kindly service. At Interlaken we mourned thus for our dear friend, Emilie Gourd, most devoted honorary secretary. Few women can have made so many friends in so many countries. Full of wit and gaiety, she had the puritan self-discipline. She filled to perfection the task of liaison officer with the I.L.O. and the League of Nations secretariat. As each horizon widened she welcomed the new opportunities. Alison Neilans, too, we mourn for, but with uplifted hearts as we remember her gaiety and sweetness as she toiled so gallantly for the weakest and most despised of women-kind. Any injustice set her aflame. But, alas, our sorrow is without consolation when we think of our beloved colleagues martyred during the occupation. Rosa Manus, the embodiment of generosity, who gave her great business ability to the cause of women. Always modest and in the background, she was a magnificent organiser and enjoyed the praise lavished on those she had helped. She and Frantiska Plaminkova went to meet their fate in full consciousness. Both might have escaped to loving shelter in other lands, both remained at their posts to comfort and lead others. They showed the greater love and gave their lives for their friends. But it is hard not to feel bitter at the premature ending of such lives. We can only try to keep faith with them by being ourselves true to their ideals and their example. Frantiska Plaminkova, our Plam, was as big in mind and soul as she was big and lovely in body. How splendidly she combined the virtues of the "old" and the "new" woman. Houseproud, devoted to her sister, she was a great public figure, equally absorbed in persuading the senate on some new law or in the details of the home for mothers and illegitimate children. She had the sweetness of the old, the courage, vision and capacity of the new woman, whose kingdom is the world. Our third colleagues, Halina Simienska, stayed behind to allow her daughter to escape. For her, too, the path of duty cost her her life, but she leaves to us and to her own country the bright example of her heroism. 8 PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM MRS. CORBETT ASHBY Dear Colleagues and Friends, It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to you all as President. For 23 years you have given me such friendship and support that I can only remember the joys of office, and there seem to have been no drawbacks. But if I say goodbye reluctantly, it is with faith in the future of the Alliance and of our work. Looking back over these 23 years, I see an immense advance in women's position all over the world. The theory of equality of status and opportunity is now accepted by men and women. We have to battle not for the principle, but for the application. You must do it day by day in your national societies and the Alliance as a whole must be a watch dog on the United Nations, the International Labour Office and the countless international organisations which are planning the new world, in order to make sure that women have their place there. I remember the pageantry and splendour of our great Congresses in Rome, Paris, Berlin and Istanbul, but the spirit of Interlaken was that of women who as Members of Parliament and voters could turn resolutions into action. What of the future? Women, East and West, have won greater personal freedom at a time when the freedom of all, men and women, is threatened by new doctrines and by a fever of planning. We must stand for spiritual freedom of each individual man and woman of every race and kind. The woman's cause is that of all mankind. Our greatest problem in the field of feminist work seems to be that of the married woman. How can the community make it possible for her to give the small child individual love and care, run the home, and still be free to take up outside work, have leisure for citizenship, companionship, and recreation? We must formulate our demands before the community can give the answer. I cannot really say goodbye as long as I live. Dr. Hanna Rydh has generously taken over the daily work and have given me the joy of being your Honorary President, free to give help in any way I can to our dear Alliance and all it stands for. Margery L. Corbett Ashby. 9 GREETINGS We give in full the message sent to our Congress by its beloved Founder, Mrs. Chapman Catt. Apart from those international organisations which sent fraternal delegates, we had a message of regret and good wishes from Madame Thibert, Head of the Section on Women's Work of the International Labour Office. The International Federation of University Women, the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Sra. A. Castillo Ledon, Vice-President of the Inter-American of Women, sent greetings. Members of the Board and other old friends who were unable to be present sent their best wishes, including Milena Atanatskovitch, Héoise Rocha, Betzy Kjelsberg and Rosika Schwimmer. From Presidents of affiliated societies prevented from sending a delegation, we received messages of regret and good wishes from Mrs. Ostenson of Finland; our well-known pioneer, Paula Luisi, of Uruguay and the Union Féministe Arabe of the Lebanon. The Union Féministe Arabe of Syria also sent its good wishes and its request, most joyfully granted, for affiliation. The Arab Women's Union of Palestine is also applying for membership and sent us a telegram of greeting. From Great Britain there were messages of goodwill from Miss Ellen Wilkinson, M.P., Minister for Education, and Dr. Edith Summerskill, M.P., Under Secretary of the Ministry of Food. The Union des Femmes of Italy, the Alliance Nationale des Société féminines suisses and the Pan-Hellenic Federation of Greece, were among national organisations to send their greetings. Message from Mrs. Chapman Catt It was my privilege in the year 1902 to organise a committee whose function it was to form a permanent organisation for the advancement of woman suffrage throughout the world. I had the honour of serving as President of that organisation for 20 years. Mrs. Ashby succeeded me, and has been the President since 1923, that is, for 23 years. I am now a very old lady, but your organisation is very dear to me. I shall be sad indeed if you decide that the time has come to dissolve it, but I shall know that the action is a 10 wise one because you have taken it. If you decide to continue, let me assure you that the greatest question in the world today is how to get rid of war. It must be put out of existence. At this time we should be too intelligent, too wise, and too moral to continue with the cruelties and atrocities of modern war. Women united and determined can compel the cessation of war if they will. Perhaps it would be well to continue for that purpose if for no other. There is a tendency on the part of some men to put women in the background, to take their work away from them, and belittle their status in the world. On the contrary, women must have a higher and more dignified place than ever before because the largest task they have ever performed lies before them. Perhaps the Alliance should continue for this purpose. I beg of you do not dissolve without serious consideration, because There are causes that need assistance And wrongs that need resistance And therefore, work for you to do. 11 RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED 1. PEACE The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSING its profound sorrow and sympathy with the untold sufferings caused by the war to millions all over the world, and its horror and indignation at the destruction of material and spiritual values in every field of human endeavour, REALISING that international organisation is essential in order to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophe that might engulf mankind; CONVINCED, however, that stable peace can only be ensured if such an organisation is founded upon, and its political, social and economic activities governed by principles of justice, AND that international justice implies recognition, not only in theory but in practice, of the sovereign equality of all nations, large and small, of equal rights for men and women, and of fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion, NOTES WITH SATISFACTION that the Charter of the United Nations is based upon such principles of justice and pledged to the purpose of their realisation, EXPRESSES THE HOPE that inasmuch as the Charter falls short of a complete realisation of its lofty purpose, such defects may be duly and speedily remedied, EMPHASISES that only where women possess equal citizenship can they exercise to the full their influence for international co-operation and peace, RECALLS the unstinted support by the Alliance of the League of Nations which it is now ready to give to the United Nations, URGES that full use be made of Articles 57, 63 and 71 of the Charter on order to secure the best possible co-operation between international organisations, both governmental and otherwise, and the specialised organs of the United Nations, PROTESTS STRONGLY against the use of atomic energy as a weapon of war, URGES that the sources, scientific development, manufacture and use of atomic energy for all purposes be under the control of the United Nations, and CALLS UPON ITS MEMBERS to unite in a common effort so that full support may be given to the new organisation and 12 the principles upon which it is based, and thereby ensure through national and international co-operation that the professed ideals of a community of nations, the unity of mankind and the universal brotherhood of man, may be translated into a living reality. Note.-The Congress adopted a Petition to the Peace Conference, the text of which will be found at the end of the Resolutions in French - 2. DEMOCRACY The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, RECALLS the Declaration of Principles adopted in 1939 at its Congress in Copenhagen, REAFFIRMS, after years of war in defence of democracy and freedom, its conviction that "the sacredness of human personality has always been the keystone of the women's movement- that the woman's battle is that of all mankind, that there can be no freedom for women where freedom is no longer a recognised right of every individual." REAFFIRMS THEREFORE its enthusiastic support of democracy which the experience of many lands shows has given a fuller spiritual and mental life and a higher and more equal standard of living to all members of the community than any other system of government. BY A DEMOCRACY THE ALLIANCE MEANS A SYSTEM in which the supreme control of the government, carried on through Parliament, Executive and Judiciary, rests in the last analysis with the people, and (a) In which no individual or institution is above the law, where impartial justice protects the individual against arbitrary action by any public or private institution and against injustice by any other individual; (b) Which arrives at its conclusions by free discussion, without an artificial unity based on suppression of opinion; (c) Which gives equal rights to all citizens whatever their differences of religious or political opinion or their racial origin, and protects individuals and group in their fundamental human rights; (d) Where there is a free press, freedom of speech and association, universal and free education, free choice of a career and the use of leisure and opportunity for employment and social security. 13 THIS CONGRESS THEREFORE PLACES ON RECORD ITS SUPPORT OF SUCH A SYSTEM OF DEMOCRACY, and its belief that whilst no existing democracy is perfect, it can and will be perfected by the steady growth of civic responsibility which it fosters among men and women. 3. POLITICAL RIGHTS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, NOTES WITH SATISFACTION THAT equal suffrage and eligibility have been granted in nearly every country; CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS which have not yet taken this essential step, and especially those who have ratified the Charter of the United Nations based upon equal rights for men and women, or who intend to apply for membership of the United Nations, to pass without delay the legislation necessary to give equal political rights to their women; AND FURTHER CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS to promote the appointment of women upon equal terms with men to all posts in the governing and administrative organs of their countries, including all posts in the judiciary and diplomatic services, as well as to all posts dealing with the making and maintenance of peace, and in general the pursuit of the purposes of the United Nations, in order that such posts shall be filled by competent women in numbers adequate to ensure that the government truly reflects the viewpoint of the whole body of citizens. 4. ECONOMIC RIGHTS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSES ITS BELIEF that the continued economic dependence of women and the lack of wide opportunity for choosing, training for and obtaining employment in many directions are one of the causes of their restricted influence in national and international affairs, and tend to prevent their full development and sense of social responsibility; PROUDLY CONSCIOUS of the magnificent evidence of women's aptitude and skill in every sphere of activity provided during the war, RE-STATES AS FOLLOWS those demands which it has consistently included in its active programme: 1. That wages be based on the value of the work in terms 14 of skill and technical qualification, in all grades applying equally to men and women whether they work side by side or whether by custom or convenience the work is more generally performed by men or women separately. 2. That opportunities for training and qualifying for every kind of work be equally available to girls and boys, men and women, with equal conditions of entry and promotion; that women shall have equal rights with men of admission on the same conditions to all trade unions and professional organisations, with equal protection against exploitation, industrial accident or disease, and the same provision for welfare and government inspection; that under any scheme of social insurance, including pensions, men and women shall pay equal contributions and receive equal benefits; with due consideration for the factors of health and motherhood. 3. That neither sex nor marriage shall in any way restrict a woman's right to undertake salaried work, but on the contrary, all possible measures be taken to enable the married woman and mother, if she so desires, to make this direct economic contribution to the community in conditions best suited to her circumstances. THE CONGRESS THEREFORE CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS to institute these conditions of equality in all their services and exercise their influence in every possible way where private employment is concerned, recognising that the under-payment of women leads to a lowering of the whole standard of the workers and to an under-valuation of women as persons and citizens with wide and undesirable social consequences. - 5. HOUSEWIFE AND WORKER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, CONSIDERING that the war has accelerated the tendency in industrial development to employ married women outside their homes, and since this has a bearing upon the whole economic status of married women, it is urgent that the problems involved be met so as to permit the married woman who so chooses to combine the functions of home-maker, wage-earner and member of society without laying upon her an intolerable burden, DECLARES that the community which needs the services of the married woman and mother in all these capacities, should adopt the following measures to permit her to render them in reasonable conditions: 15 (a) The provision of dwellings with carefully planned arrangements to lighten domestic work; (b) Adequate grants for the expenses of childbirth and proper provision of maternity services and convalescent homes; (c) Varied and widespread facilities for child care (day nurseries, nursery schools, etc.); (d) The sharing of responsibility for the training and care of children between both parents, so that while the special function of the mother is recognised, she shall be free to take part in the social and civic life of the community and, if she so desires, in employment outside the home. (e) The provision of opportunities for part-time work at the proper standard rate of wages, available for workers of both sexes. - 6. THE REMOVAL OF THE LEGAL INCAPACITY OF THE MARRIED WOMAN AND MOTHER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, CONSIDERING that marriage is an institution to assure the existence and well-being of the family under the best possible conditions; that therefore it is wrong to penalise those who wish to enter the state of marriage; That legislation, which in most countries has established civil rights equal to those of men for all unmarried women, still imposes a measure of civil incapacity upon the wife and married mother; That this system of law is contrary to equity, justice and reason, and is often prejudicial to the interests of the family: DEMANDS THEREFORE that the married woman shall preserve the property and the full exercise of all rights she enjoyed before marriage, especially the right to: Bear her own name; Retain her independent nationality; Share in the choice of the common domicile, or choose her own domicile where circumstances require it; Exercise any activity or profession she may choose; Exercise all rights over the property she possessed before marriage or has acquired in the course of marriage; Have the same rights as her husband over property held in common; 16 Enter into any contract with her husband authorised by the law as between unmarried persons; Exercise equal rights with her husband over the children born of their marriage. - 7. THE ECONOMIC POSITION OF THE HOUSEWIFE The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, DEMANDS that in virtue of her position as housewife, the married woman shall have a share in the family income and the right to her own insurance benefits and pension. - 8. TRAFFIC IN WOMEN AND AN EQUAL MORAL STANDARD The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, REAFFIRMS STRONGLY the necessity for a high moral standard equal between the sexes; CONSIDERING: 1. That prostitution is an anti-social act which concerns the individual conscience and should not be considered as a legal offence; 2. That the commercial exploitation of the prostitution of others constitutes the offence indicated in the Fifth Convention against Traffic in Women drafted by the League of Nations in 1937; 3. That the war and post-war conditions have much increased such exploitation; 4. That it is urgent to take international measures to deal with this problem; DEMANDS: (a) That the United Nations take steps to secure the signatures and ratification of the States Members to the Fifth Convention against the Traffic in Women as prepared by the League of Nations in 1937. (b) That a clause be inserted in the Peace Treaties by which all signatories to these Treaties shall consider themselves bound by the previous Conventions against Traffic in Women of 1904, 1910, 1921 and 1933, and also that the measures proposed in the draft Convention against the exploitation of the prostitution of others of 1937 be inserted in the Treaties. 17 (c) That since prostitution is not a legal offense, all forms of the system of regulation should be abolished; (d) That to prevent the spread of venereal diseases, adequate measures be taken in the form of free and confidential treatment, available for the world population; (e) That laws to safeguard public order shall be applicable equally to both men and women. AND RECOMMENDS to its affiliated societies that they should work in their own countries to ensure the adoption of modern methods of social welfare, education and propaganda. 9. VITAL QUESTIONS OF THE DAY The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, RECOGNISING that women though now largely enfranchised have as yet achieved a small proportion of representation in the Parliaments of the world and in the higher posts of administration and government, and have therefore inadequate means of voicing their opinion officially on many of the major problems of the day: RECOMMENDS to its affiliated societies to take all possible steps to ensure that women who have acquired technical competence shall have the opportunity to be officially associated with research into the problems of: (a) Production and consumption, especially as regards nutrition: (b) Migration, to provide an equilibrium in the supply and demand for labour, and ensure the moral and material well-being of emigrants so that they may take a useful part in the life of their new country: (c) Transport, to ensure an equitable distribution of the necessities of life and the raw materials of manufacture: (d) Housing, AND FURTHER that all women as citizens should take steps to study and understand these world problems so as to contribute to an informed public opinion which is essential to their proper solution. 10. DISPLACED PERSONS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, URGES ALL NATIONS to find a radical and generous solution 18 to the problem of refugees and stateless and displaced persons, of whom millions are to-day without a home, without work and without hope, and whose tragic state shows no improvement. The moral and physical sufferings they are enduring call for the planning of large scale schemes of migration by the Governments. THIS CONGRESS URGENTLY DEMANDS that all Governments undertake the settlement of refugees in suitable regions; provide for their transport thither with their families; help them to take their place in their new country and by degrees give them full citizen rights. THE CONGRESS in the spirit of human solidarity appeals to women to take an active part in the solution of these problems. 11. MIGRATION The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, CONSIDERING that the problem of migration is one which at this moment calls for the sympathy of the whole world, and that it must be dealt with on the basis of solutions applied with great care to ensure that justice is done to all: AND DESIRING to find a solution: 1. DEMANDS that those countries with wide and rich territories not yet fully exploited or populated, should extend a welcome to the largest possible number of refugees, 2. NOTES WITH SATISFACTION that some of the countries of South America (Chile, Venezuela) are opening their doors to emigrants from all countries who wish to settle there and are offering facilities for such settlement. 3. DEMANDS that no country shall attempt to force immigration upon any other country against the will of its inhabitants. 12. JEWISH REFUGEES IN CONCENTRATION CAMPS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSES ITS HORROR at the atrocities perpetrated against the Jewish people by the Hitler regime, resulting in the slaughter of six million of its peaceful members, DRAWS ATTENTION TO THE FACT that hundreds of thousands of innocent Jewish refugees are still detained today, one and a half years after the end of the war, in the 19 concentration camps to which they were sent, for no other crime than that they have survived the atrocities inflicted on them, STATES that this is in contradiction to the elementary human rights laid down in the Charter of the United Nations, and DEMANDS that the United Nations take steps to secure their immediate liberation. ______________________________________ RESOLUTIONS ADOPTEES 1. PAIX L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, EXPRIME sa compassion et sa profonde sympathie pour les souffrances indicibles infligées par la guerre à des millions d'êtres humains, ainsi que son horreur et son indignation à la vue de la destruction des valeurs matérielles et spirituelles dans tous les domaines, SE RENDANT COMPTE du fait qu'une organisation internationale est indispensable pour prévenir le retour d'une catastrophe qui risquerait d'engloutir l'humanité toute entière, CONVAINCUE qu'une paix durable ne pourra toutefois être assurée que si cette organisation est basée sur des prin cipes de justice, politique, sociale et économique, guidant toutes ses activités, ET que la justice internationale implique la reconnaissance non seulement en théorie, mais aussi en pratique, de l'égalité souveraine de toutes les nations, grandes ou petites, de l'égalité des droits entre l'homme et la femme et des libertés fondamentales pour tous, sans discrimination de race, de sexe, de langue ou de religion, CONSTATE AVEC SATISFACTION que la Charte des Nations Unies est basée sur ces principes de justice et dédiée à leur réalisation, EXPRIME L'ESPOIR que pour autant que rte ne réalise pas entièrement cet idéal élevé, il sera possible de combler rapidement les lacunes restantes, INSISTE SUR LE FAIT que seule l'égalité civique permet aux femmes d'exercer complètement leur influence en faveur de la coopération internationale et de la paix. RAPPELLE l'appui enthousiaste de l'Alliance pour la Sociéte des Nations et déclare qu'elle est maintenant prête à transférer cet appui aux Nations Unies, 20 INSISTE que plein usage soit fait des Articles 37, 63 et 71 de la Charte en vue d'assurer la meilleure coopération possible entre les organisations internationales, aussi bien gouvernementales ou autres, et les organes spécialisés des Nations Unies. PROTESTE ENERGIQUEMENT contre tout emploi de l'énergie atomique comme arme de guerre, DEMANDE que les sources, le développement scientifique, la production et l'emploi de l'énergie atomique à toutes fins soient sous le contrôle des Nations Unies. et FAIT APPEL A SES MEMBRES pour s'unir dans un commun effort afin de pouvoir pleinement appuyer la nouvelle organisation et les principes sur lesquels elle repose et développer ainsi par la coopération internationale et nationale l'idéal nécessaire à une communauté des nations, à l'unité de l'humanité et à la fraternité universelle des hommes pour en faire une réalité vivante. _________________ 2. DEMOCRATIE L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, RAPPELLE la déclaration adoptée à Copenhague en 1939. REAFFIRME, après six années de guerre pour défendre la démocratie et la liberté, sa conviction de la valeur et de la dignité da la personne humaine comme la base fondamentale du mouvement féministe: que la bataille des femmes pour l'égalité et la liberté est celle de l'humanité: qu'il ne peut y avoir de liberté réelle pour les femmes lorsque la liberté n'est pas reconnue comme un droit personnel à tout être humain, REAFFIRME DONC sa foi inébranlable dans la démocratie. dont l'expérience faite dans bien des pays prouve qu'elle a donné à la vie un sens intellectuel et spirituel plus profond. et élevé le niveau de vie de tous les membres de la communauté plus que tout autre système de gouvernement. PAR LA DEMOCRATIE L'ALLIANCE ENTEND UN SYSTEME dans lequel le contrôle suprême du gouvernement exercé par le Parlement, l'Exécutif et la Judicature repose en dernier ressort sur le peuple et a) dans lequel aucune institution on personne n'est privilégiée Su placée au-dessus la loi: où l'impartiale justice protège tout individu contre toute action arbitraire des institutions publiques ou privées et contre tout injustice fomentée par d'autres individus, 21 b) qui arrive à des solutions au moyen d'une discussion libre et où l'opinion publique n'est par artificiellement unifiée par la suppression de certaines opinions, c) qui donne des droits égaux à tous les citoyens, quelque soient leurs différences d'opinion religieuse ou politique ou leur origine raciale et protège les individus et les groupes dans leur droits humains fondamentaux, d) qui assure la liberté de la presse, de parole, d'association; l'égalité religieuse, l'éducation libre et universelle, le droit de choisir sa carrière et l'emploi de ses loisirs et la possibilité de travail et de sécurité sociale. LE CONGRES DECLARE DONC sa foi en un tel régime démocratique, reconnaissant que bien qu'aucune démocratie ne soit parfaite à présent, son perfectionnement démocratie par le développement des responsabilités civiques que la démocratie favorise parmi tous les citoyens, hommes et femmes. 3. DROITS POLITIQUES L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, NOTE AVEC SATISFACTION que les droits égaux de suffrage et d'éligibilité ont éte accordés aux femmes dans presque tous les pays, FAIT APPEL aux Gouvernements qui n'ont pas encore achevé ce progrès essentiel, et surtout à ceux qui ont ratifié la Charte des Nations Unies basée sur l'égalité des droits entre hommes et femmes, ou qui ont l'intention de demander à être admis parmi les Nations Unies, de promulguer sans délai les lois nécessaires pour donner des droits politiques égaux aux femmes de leur pays, FAIT EGALEMENT APPEL à tous les Gouvernements pour qu'ils nomment des femmes sur un pied d'égalité avec les hommes aux fonctions administratives et gouvernementales, judiciaries, diplomatiques, ainsi qu'aux services traitant la préparation et le maintien de la paix, et en général visant les buts des Nations Unies, afin que ces fonctions puissent être remplies par des femmes compétentes en nombre suffisant pour assurer que le système gouvernemental reflète réellement l'opinion de tous les citoyens. ------------------- 4. DROITS ECONOMIQUES L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, DECLARE que la dépendance économique des femmes et la 22 limitation de leur champ de travail sont une des causes de l'influence restreinte qu'elles peuvent avoir sur les affaires nationales et mondiales, de même que cette limitation diminue eur plein développement et leur sentiment de responsabilité sociale. CONSTATANT AVEC ORGUEIL l'évidence merveilleuse de l'aptitude et du talent des femmes dans tous les domaines fournie pendant la guerre, REITERE les demandes qu'elle a toujours eu à son programme, soit: 1. Que les salaires soient basés sur la valeur du travail, évaluée en termes de qualifications techniques et d'aptitude. Cette règle doit être appliquée dans tous les cas, que le travail soit fait en commun par des hommes et des femmes, ou par l'un ou l'autre des deux sexes séparément. 2. Qu'une égalité de préparation technique soit offerte aux filles comme aux garçons, aux femmes comme aux hommes; le droit d'entrée et d'avancement dans toues les professions et tous les métiers doit être le même pour les deux sexes, ainsi que les conditions d'admission dans les syndicats et organisations professionelles; de même la protecion contre l'exploitation, les accidents ou maladies industrielles, les mêmes mesures sociales et le même contrôle gouvernemental; pensions et assurances sociales doivent être basées sur des contributions égales et des bénéfices égaux; en prenant en considération les questions de l'hygiène et de la maternité. 3. Que les restrictions basées sur le sexe de la personne ou le fait qu'une femme est mariée, soient abolies; qu'au contraire, toutes les mesures nécessaires doivent être prises pour aider la femme mariée ou la mère à contribuer directement, si elle le désire, à la vie économique de la communauté dans les conditions qui lui conviennent le mieux. LE CONGRES DEMANDE DONC aux Gouvernements d'instituer des conditions d'égalité dans leurs services publics et d'exercer leur influence sur les entreprises privées, reconnaissant que les bas salaires des femmes abaissent le niveau de vie de tous les travailleurs, aboutissant à une sous-évaluation ds femmes en tant que personnes et citoyennes, sans parler des conditions sociales indésirables qui en sont la conséquence. --------------- 5. MENAGERE ET TRAVAILLEUSE L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, CONSIDERANT que la guerre a accéléré la tendance à 23 employer des femmes mariées hors de leurs foyers au cours de développement industriel, et que ce développement a une grande porte le problème du statut économique de la femme mariée, qu'il est done urgent que ce probleme soit conçu afin de permettre à la femme mariée de remplir ses devoirs de ménagère, de salariée et de citoyenne sans pour cela lui infliger un lardreau intolérable; DECLARE que la communauté qui a besoin des services de la femme maride e mire dans tous ces aspects doit adopter les mesures suivantes afin d'assurer qu'elle puisse rendre ces services dans des conditions raisonnables a) la construction de mais modernes, pourvues d'un out lage ménager destiné à rendre le travail domestique wow simple que possible b) Des allocations couvrant les dépenses de maternité. l'organisation d'un service de secours pour la mère et l'enfant, la construction de cliniques pour l'accouchement et de maisons de convalescence. c) Des facilités de toutes sortes pour aider à l'éducation des enfants: crèches, jardins d'enfants, garderies d'enfants, etc. d) Partage des responsabilités entre les deux parents quant ans ains et à l'éducation pour que la mère puisse prendre sa part a la vie sociale de la communauté et accepter, si elle le désire, un emploi hors de la maison. e) Une organisation de travail prévoyant l'offre de travail mi-temps, rétribué par un salaire horaire égal, et qui pourrait être accepté par les travailleurs des deux sexes. _____________________ 6. SUPPRESSION DE L'INCAPACITE CIVILE DE LA FEMME MARIEE ET DE LA MERE L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en ait 19, CONSIDERANT que le mariage est une institution qui assure l'existence et le bienētre de la famille dans les meilleures conditions possibles, qu'il ne faut donc par créer d'obstacles à ceux qui désirent se marier, que la législation qui, dans la plupart des pays, a établi pour toute femme non mariée des droits civils égaux A ceux des hommes, fraPpe d'une incapacité civile plus ou moins étendue la femme et la mère mariée, que ce système juridique est contraire à l'équité. A la justice, à la raison et souvent préjudiciable aux intérêts de la famille, EMET LE VOEU que la femme mariée conserve la propriété 24 et l'exercice de tous les droits dont elle jouissait avant son mariage, qu'elle puisse notamment: Porter son nom: Conserver sa propre nationalité; Participer au choix du domicile commun ou choisir son propre domicile, si les circonstances l'exigent; Exercer toute activité ou profession de son choix; Exercer tous les droits attachés à la propriété sur les biens qu'elle possédait avant son mariage et sur ceux qu'elle a acquis postérieurement au mariage Posséder des droits égaux à ceux de son mari sur les biens acquis en commun; Passer avec son mari tous les contrats autorisés par la loi entre individus non mariés, Exercer des droits égaux à ceux de son mari sur les enfants issus du mariage. _____________________ 7. SITUATION ECONOMIQUE DE LA MENAGERE L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken un août 1946, DEMANDE que dans sa qualité de ménagère, la femme mariée ait droit à une partie des revenus de la famille, aux bénéfices de Non assurance sociale et à une pension. _____________________ 8. TRAITE DES FEMMES ET L'UNITE DE LA MORALE L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946 REAFFIRME avec force la nécessité du principe d'une morale élevée, unique pour les deux sexes, CONSIDERANT: 1. que la prostitution constitue un acte anti-social, qui ne relève que de la conscience individuelle et ne doit pas étre consdérée comme un délit, 2. que l'exploitation commerciale de la prostitution d'autrui constitue le délit prévu par la 5ême Convention contre Traite des Femmes élaborée à la S.D.N. en 1937, 3. que du fait de la guerre et des conditions d'après-guerre, cette exploitation s'est considérablement accrue, 4. qu'il est urgent, en vue de la combattre, de prendre des mesures internationales, 25 DEMANDE a) que l'organisation des Nations Unies s'emploie à obtenir de ses Etats Membres les signatures et les ratifications nécessaires à la sème Convention contre la Traite des Femmes élaborée à la S.D.N. en 1937: b) que dans les Traités de Paix une clause soit insérée par laquelle tous les signataires de ces traités se considèrent comme liés par les quatre conventions internationales contre la Traite des Femmes de 1904, 1910, 1921 et 1933. et qu'en outre les dispositions qui figuraient dans le projet de convention internationale contre l'exploitation de la prostitution d'autrui (1937) soient inscrites dans les traités de paix, c) que la prostitution n'étant pas un délit, tout système de réglementation quelconque soit supprimé; d) qu'en vue de lutter contre la propagation des maladies vénériennes, des mesures sanitaires adequates soient prises sur la base du traitement gratuit et discret et applicable à la totalité de la population; e) que les lois visant l'ordre public soient applicables et appliquées sans distinction à l'égard des hommes comme A celui des femmes, RECOMMANDE à ses sociétés affiliées de travailler dans leurs pays pour que des mesures modernes de prévoyance sociale, d'éducation et de propagande soient instituées. _________________________ 9. QUESTIONS VITALES DU JOUR L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, CONSIDERANT que la femme, qui représente plus de la moitié de l'humanité, dispose de peu de moyens officiels pour se faire entendre, étant donné le petit nombre de femmes siégeant dans les parlements ou s'occupant des postes de direction dans les administrations publiques: RECOMMANDE à ses sociétés affiliées de soutenir les femmes qui possèdent les compétences techniques nécessaires afin qu'elles aient la possibilité d'être officiellement associées aux études concernant: a) La production et la consommation, spécialement en ce qui concerne la nutrition: b) La migration, afin d'équilibrer l'offre et la demande de la main d'oeuvre, et de contribuer au bien-être matériel et moral des émigrés afin de leur permettre de jouer un rôle utile dans la vie de leur nouvelle patrie; 26 c) Les transports, afin d'organiser la circulation et la distribution des objets de première nécessité et des matières premières essentielles pour l'industrie, d) L'habitation; ET DE PLUS que toutes les femmes, en tant que citoyennes, étudient ces problèmes afin d'aider à la formation d'une opinion publique instruite, condition essentielle à ce qu'une solution démocratique soit donnée ces problèmes. ______________________ 10. PERSONNES DEPLACEES L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, rêunie à interlaken en août 1946, DEMANDE INSTAMMENT AUX NATIONS d'apporter une solution radicale et généreuse au problème des apatrides, des réfugiés et des déplacés, dont des millions sont aujourd'hui sans foyer, sans travail et sans espoir. Leur situation ne s'est pas améliorée et demeure tragique. Les souffrances morales et physiques qu'ils endurent imposent aux Gouvernements la nécessité d'élaborer des plans plus vastes de migration. LE CONGRES DEMANDE done aux Gouvernements de se charger d'établir les réfugiés dans des régions appropriées: d'assurer leur transport: de les accepter avec leur famille, les aider à prendre place dans la vie de leur nouvelle patrie et de leur accorder peu à peu tous les droits civiques. LE CONGRES dans un esprit de solidarité humaine fait appel aux femmes pour qu'elles prennent une part active à la solution de ces problèmes. ______________________ 11. MIGRATION L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, CONSIDERANT que le problème de la migration est un de ceux qui à l'heure actuelle sollicite le plus la sympathie du monde, que cette question doit être traitée et sa solution doit être appliquée avec autant de prévoyance que d'équité pour éviter de léser les uns en favorisant les autres, ET DESIRANT trouver la solution de cette question de la manière la plus équitable pour tous: I. DEMANDE aux pays en possession de vastes territoires riches et non exploités et qui en même temps manquent de main d'oeuvre d'accueillir le plus grand nombre pos sible de réfugiés; 27 2. PREND NOTE AVEC SATISFACTION que certains pays de l'Amérique du Sud (Chili, Venezuela) ouvrent leurs portes aux émigrés de tous pays et offrent aux colons qui désirent s'installer chez eux des terrains et les facilités d'exploiter ceux-ci; 3. DEMANDE qu'aucun pays ne tentera d'imposer l'immigration dans un pays quelconque contre la volonté de ses habitants. ______________________ 12. REFUGIES JUIFS INTERNES DANS DES CAMPS DE CONCENTRATION L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, réunie à Interlaken en août 1946, EXPRIME SON HORREUR au sujet du traitement atroce infligé à la population juive par le régime hitlérien, qui a abouti au meurtre de 6 millions de ses ressortissants pacifiques; ATTIRE l'attention sur le fait que des centaines de milliers d'innocents réfugiés juifs sont détenus encore aujourd'hui dans des camps de concentration où ils avaient été placés, et cela un an et demi après la fin de la guerre, pour aucune autre faute que d'avoir survécu à ces atrocités; CONSTATE que ce traitement est en controdiction avec les droits humains les plus élémentaires, confirmés par la Charte de Nations Unies, et demande que les Nations Unies prennent des mesures pour assurer leur libération immédiate. ______________________ TEXTE D'UNE PETITION A LA CONFERENCE DE LA PAIX ADOPTEE PAR LE CONGRESS ET PRESENTEE AVEC LES SIGNATURES DES DELEGUEES A LA CONFERENCE EN PARIS L'Alliance Internationale des femmes réunie à Interlaken en Août 1946, au moment même où se tient à Paris la Conférence de la Paix: adresse à celle-ci ses voeux ardents pour que les traités qui y seront ellaborés, permettent un ordre mondial basé sur la justice et le droit des peuples pacifiques à vivre libres et heureux, à l'abri de toute agression. L'A.I.F. regrette que les femmes qui ont pris part à la guerre et ont souffert avec les hommes, n'aient pas été appelées.à prendre part active à la Conférence de la Paix. La Charte des Nations Unies a invité les différentes 28 nations à comprendre des femmes dans leurs délégations et à tous leurs travaux. La Conférence de Paris ne devait-elle pas être la première à s'inspirer de ce principe? L'A.I.F. qui groupe en ce moment à Interlaken de femmes de 20 pays souhaite vivement : que les gouvernements présents à la Conférence de la Paix prennent acte de la présente pétition et y fassent droit en s'adjoignant encore des concours féminins dans les commissions d'études et les travaux de la Conférence. ______________________ TREASURER'S REPORT I beg to submit the accounts for each of the complete years since the Copenhagen Congress in 1939 as attached. Apart from these figures which speak for themselves, my report must necessarily be brief. I have no expenditure for special work to report, since no outstanding work has been possible. I have no money-raising efforts to note, since such could obviously not be undertaken. All I can report is a successful effort to make the resources on which a three-years budget adopted at Copenhagen was based, last for a full seven years. But before I make that statement, I have the very great pleasure of announcing a wonderful piece of generosity on the part of our beloved Founder and Honorary President, Mrs. Chapman Catt. In 1940, Mrs. Catt told us that she had intended to leave a legacy to the Alliance in her will, but she found that this would involve many legal complications. So she decided to put the money aside there and then: a sum of five thousand dollars. This was put in trust for the Alliance through the National League of Women Voters of the United States, and Mrs. Catt expressed the hope that it might serve to enable the Alliance to call an international Congress at the end of the war, when funds were bound to be low and difficult to replenish. And this is just what has happened: after seven years our Treasury would have been unable to provide funds for a Congress. We are not indeed going to spend the whole of Mrs. Catt's gift on the Interlaken Congress, but we shall spend what is necessary and still have a fair amount in hand for other work which would have been impossible had the Treasury been empty at the end of the Congress. I also have to inform you-but in grief this time-that another old and beloved member of the Alliance remembered 29 the Alliance in her will, Mlle Emilie Gourd. We have just received a legacy of ten thousand Swiss francs, and our gratitude goes out to one who never forgot the Alliance, and never ceased to give time, money and devoted work to our cause. Copenhagen Budget After the Copenhagen Congress the Board adopted a budget based on capital resources estimated at £1,000, and a yearly income of approximately £350. For the three years, July 1939 to June 1942, covered by that budget, that made a total of £2,050, or £680 a year. The expenditure allowed for the employment of the Headquarters Secretary at half-time rates, rent, International Women's News, printing, etc., and a credit balance of about £100 a year. That would have permitted the Alliance to have about £300 in hand at the end of the three years but no other resources whatever. When the war emergency came upon us, we gave up the office and asked our Secretary to work part-time in her own home. We leased International Women's News to a British organisation for five out of the seven years; we cut down printing, telephone and other expenses. So we were able to meet all ordinary expenditure for these seven years out of the £1,000 plus a small income which has fallen far below the estimated £350. By the end of June 1946, it is true that the Alliance will finally have spent the last of these savings. This means that I come to you with empty hands, apart from the special gifts mentioned above, but with the Alliance still functioning, still a "going concern." I hope you will feel that your President, Treasurer and Secretary, with the advice of such members of the Board as they could reach, have done the best they could in circumstances of unparalleled difficulty. They considered that it was better to use the money as sparingly as possible, but still to use it in this task, rather than close down all activity of every kind and hoard the money for the problematic purpose of trying to start afresh when the war should be over. In that way we have kept in touch with many of our societies and members and were ready to plan a Congress. The Future What is to be the future? There will be a balance from Mrs. Catt's gift, and there will be the legacy from Mlle. Gourd. But it would seem tragic to let this be fritted away only on day to day routine expenses. We would wish to keep it for special schemes, and we appeal for support from all our affiliated societies , who have always raised enough funds at each Congress to carry on the normal work for three years 30 at a time. It is necessary to have a background of organisation behind any plans for special work and an active programme. Our income in 1945 was only £178; not enough to provide any staff and barely enough for postage, telegrams, stationery, etc. It is true that that was in war-time and we happily had some reserves, but now though our societies are all meeting their own difficulties, financial and otherwise, we must ask them to help. What other possible means of raising the necessary funds are open to us? Are you able to make suggestions: can you pledge your society to undertake at least some special effort to raise a form of international fund in the course of the coming year, and subsequent years? This is the question I must put to the Congress. Cost of Copenhagen and Interlaken Congresses. The total cost of the Copenhagen Congress was about £365, including the cost of printing the Congress Report. No estimate has been made for the cost of the present Congress as we have no reliable data for present prices of printing, accommodation, etc. Every expense will be kept down to the minimum, and we hope that in spite of the increased cost of everything, we may nevertheless be able to keep the total expenditure as low, or possibly even lower, than that for Copenhagen, which was the most modest for many years. N. SPILLER 31 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FOR SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Accounts for the Year Ending December 31st, 1939 RECEIPTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. Balances, 1st January, 1939: Abbey Rd. Building Society ... 500 0 0 Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds at cost ... ... 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank ... ... 523 3 4 Barclay's Bank Current A/c. ... 263 11 11 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 1 4 9 1/2 1783 13 6 1/2 "International Women's News ... 86 19 8 Donations ... ... ... ... ... 26 12 8 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... 124 12 10 Affiliation Fees... ... ... ... ... ... 127 10 2 Copenhagen Congress Receipts: Congress Fund ... ... ... ... 287 11 6 Delegates Fees and Orders for Report ... ... ... ... ... 72 3 0 Tickets for Reception ... ... 25 0 0 Donations for future ... ... ... 285 3 10 ___________ 669 18 4 Sales Literature, etc. ... ... ... 4 1 6 Interests: Abbey Rd. Building Society ... 15 2 0 Barclay's Bank Deposit ... ... 10 0 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... 13 1 6 ___________ 28 13 6 Istanbul Congress Pledge ... ... 12 13 3 Miscellaneous ... ... ... ... ... 4 17 0 Donations paid direct to Deposit 6 5 0 _______________ £2875 17 5 1/2 PAYMENTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. "International Women's News" ... 116 14 0 Salaries and National Insurance ... 547 7 9 Light, Heat, Cleaning ... ... ... 29 8 4 Rent ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 82 10 0 Printing and Stationary ... ... 30 3 1 Telephone and Telegrams ... ... 19 12 8 1/2 Postages ... ... ... ... ... 29 3 0 Insurance (Fire, etc.) ... ... ... 1 14 9 Mlle. Gourd's Expenses ... ... 77 13 10 Congress Expenditure: Printing. ... ... ... ... ... 72 15 10 Journey, Hotel ... ... ... ... 51 0 8 Transport Papers ... ... ... 3 16 0 Interpreter ... ... ... ... 41 14 0 Salaries ... ... ... ... ... 19 0 0 Duplicating ... ... ... ... 26 13 6 Reception ... ... ... ... ... 77 7 0 Telephone, Postage ... ... ... 16 12 2 Fares, Tips, etc. ... ... ... 29 7 1 ___________ 338 6 3 Miscellaneous: Income Tax ... ... ... ... 8 6 0 Corporation Duty ... ... ... 13 6 Subscriptions ... ... ... ... 2 7 0 Travel Expenses ... ... ... 7 4 3 Office Removal ... ... ... ... 6 10 0 Photographs ... ... ... ... 4 16 0 Audit Fee ... ... ... ... ... 2 2 0 Press Cutting .. ... ... ... 3 0 0 Cheque Books ... ... ... ... 1 5 0 Suffrage Table ... ... ... ... 4 10 0 Sundries ... ... ... ... ... 15 8 10 ___________ 56 2 7 Balances, 31st Dec., 1939: Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds ... ... ... 495 13 6 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... 536 4 10 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 287 18 7 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 225 2 6 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 2 1 9 _________ 1547 1 2 ________________ £2875 17 5 1/2 ________________ I have checked the above Statement of Receipts and Payments with the Books and Vouchers of the International Alliance of Women for Suffrage and Equal Citizenship and find them to be correct and in accord with the Statements and Deposit Books from the Bank and the Post Office Savings Bank. 29th January, 1940 (Signed) HERMIA MERCER. 34 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FOR SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1940 RECEIPTS. ₤ s. d. ₤ s. d. Balances, 1st, January, 1940: Brazil 6½% Bonds at cost ... ... 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank ... ... 536 4 10 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 287 18 7 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 225 2 6 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 2 1 9 _________ 1547 1 2 "International Women's News ... 43 0 1 Donations ... ... ... ... ... 5 1 5 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... ... 65 5 2 Affiliation Fees ... ... ... ... ... 49 11 6 XIII Congress Fund ... ... ... 16 0 0 Interests: Brazil Bonds ... ... ... ... 4 13 7 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... 13 8 0 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 1 8 4 _______ 19 9 11 Peace Committee Fund ... ... ... 40 17 2 Sale Paper ... ... ... ... ... 2 6 _______________ ₤1786 8 11 _______________ PAYMENTS. ₤ s. d. ₤ s. d. "International Women's News" ... 67 10 11 Salaries ... ... ... ... ... ... 252 0 0 Rent ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 15 0 Printing and Stationery ... ... 11 13 8½ Telephone and Telegrams ... ... 16 1 9 Postages ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 14 11½ Mlle. Gourd's Expenses ... ... 15 8 4 Miscellaneous: Subscription Liaison Committee 1 10 0 Traveling Expenses ... ... ... 14 17 5 Corporation Duty ... ... ... 13 6 Cheque Book ... ... ... ... 8 4 Sundries ... ... ... ... ... 7 4 8 ___________ 24 13 11 Balances, Dec. 31st, 1940: Brazil 6½% Bonds ... ... ... 495 13 6 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... ... 549 12 10 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 187 18 7 " (Peace) ... ... 40 17 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 93 16 0 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 12 3 ____________ 1368 10 4 _______________ ₤1786 8 11 _______________ We have seen the Post Office Savings Book, Bank Statement and two Bank Deposit Books, which agree with the above Statement. (Signed) M. I. CORBETT ASHBY, President. January 30th, 1941. N. SPILLER, Treasurer. 35 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FOR SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1941 RECEIPTS. ₤ s. d. ₤ s. d. Balances, 1st, January, 1941: Brazil 6½% Bonds at cost ... ... 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank ... ... 549 12 10 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 187 18 7 " (Peace) ... ... 40 17 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 93 16 0 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 12 3 _________ 1368 10 4 "International Women's News" ... 52 8 0 Donations ... ... ... ... ... 2 14 4 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... ... 60 4 2 Affiliation Fees ... ... ... ... ... 60 4 8 Copenhagen Congress Pledges ... 4 10 0 Interests: Brazil 6½% Bonds... ... ... ... 4 1 2 Bank Deposit .. ... ... ... ... 16 5 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... 13 14 6 _______ 18 12 1 _______________ ₤1567 3 7 _______________ PAYMENTS. ₤ s. d. ₤ s. d. Salary and NATIONAL INSURANCE ... 254 11 9 "International Women's News" Payment to W.P.P.A. ... ... ... ... 53 1 0 Stationery ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 6½ Telephone and Telegrams ... ... ... 5 18 11½ Postages ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 7 0½ Income Tax ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 14 9 Corporation Duty ... ... ... ... ... 14 9 Subscription to Liaison Committee ... 1 0 0 Mlle. Gourd's Expenses ... ... ... 14 1 4 Sundries ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 4 10½ Balances, 31st December, 1941: Brazil 6½% Bonds ... ... ... 495 13 6 P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... ... 563 7 4 Barclay's Bank: Deposit (Peace) ... ... ... ... 40 17 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 115 6 10 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 9 ____________ 1215 5 7 _______________ ₤1567 3 7 _______________ Examined and found correct on examination of relevant documents. (Signed) M. I. CORBETT ASHBY, President. N. SPILLER, Treasurer. 23rd February, 1942. INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FOR SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1942 RECEIPTS. ￡ s. d ￡ s. d. Balances, 1st January, 1942: Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds at cost … … 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank … … 563 7 4 Barclay's Bank: Deposit ... ... ... ... ... 40 17 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 115 6 10 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 9 ____________ 1215 5 7 Donations ... ... ... ... ... 4 13 0 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... 58 6 6 Affiliation Fees ... ... ... ... 33 4 5 "International Women's News" ... 49 4 8 Copenhagen Congress Pledge ... 2 0 0 Interests: P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... ... 12 14 9 Brazil Bonds ... ... ... ... 4 1 2 Bank Deposit ... ... ... ... 4 0 __________ 16 19 11 ￡ 1379 14 1 PAYMENTS. ￡ s. d. ￡ s. d. Salary and National Insurance . . . 254 0 9 1/2 Payment to W.P.P.A for "International Women's News" . . . 43 0 2 1/2 Stationary . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 15 5 Telegrams and Telephone . . . . . . 6 1 0 1/2 Postages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 13 1 Miscellaneous : Liaison Committee . . . . . . . . . 1 10 0 Hire Room . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 7 6 Corporation Duty . . . . . . . . . 14 6 Cheque Book 8 4 Sundries 1 6 10 1/2 ________________ 7 7 2 1/2 Balances, 31st December, 1942 : Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds 495 13 6 P.O.S.B 412 14 9 Barclay's Bank : Deposit 40 17 2 Current A/c. 108 2 8 Petty Cash 1 8 3 ______________ 1058 16 4 _________________ ￡ 1379 14 1 We have examined the above Accounts and the relevant documents and consider them correct (signed) M.I. CORBETT ASHBY, President. N. SPILLER, Treasurer. 23rd February, 1943. [*36*] INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FOR SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Recipients and Payment Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1943 RECEIPTS. ￡ s. d. ￡ s. d. Balances, January 1st, 1943 : Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds at cost 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank 412 14 9 Barclay's Bank : Deposit 40 17 2 Current A/c. 108 2 8 Petty Cash 1 8 3 1058 16 4 Donations 6 5 0 Members' Fees 52 11 14 "International Women's News" 42 4 5 Affiliation Fees 54 6 4 Congress Pledges 6 5 0 Interests : Brazil Bonds 4 1 2 Bank Deposit 4 0 P.O.S.B 9 1 0 13 6 2 ￡ 1233 14 7 PAYMENTS. ￡ s. d. ￡ s. d. Salary and National Insurance 254 1 7 1/2 Payment to W.P.P.A. for "International Women's News" 48 4 7 Printing and Stationery 4 3 6 1/2 Telephone and Telegrams 4 1 7 1/2 Postage 8 10 7 Miscellaneous : Corporation Duty 12 11 Income Tax 13 15 0 Liaison Committee 2 3 1 Receptions 2 19 0 Sundries 1 3 2 20 13 2 Balances, Dec 31st 1943 : Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds 495 13 6 Barclay's Bank : Deposit 40 17 2 Current A/c. 34 12 10 P.O.S.B. 321 15 9 Petty Cash 1 0 2 1/2 893 19 5 1/2 £1233 14 7 We have examined the Books and relevant Documents and approve the above Statement. (Signed) M. I. CORBETT ASHBY, President. N. SPILLER, Treasurer. January 25th, 1944. [*37*] INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1944 RECEIPTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. Balance, January 1st, 1944 : Brazil 6 1/2% Bonds ... ... ... 495 13 6 Post Office Savings Bank ... ... 321 15 9 Barclay's Bank : Deposit ... ... ... ... 40 17 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 34 12 10 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 2 1/2 893 19 5 1/2 Donations ... ... ... ... 34 6 3 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... 50 0 0 "International Women's News ... 42 13 3 Affiliation Fees ... ... ... ... 50 6 0 XIII Congress Fund ... ... ... 2 10 0 Compensation for lost typewrite: ... 10 0 0 Interests : P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... 6 19 4 Bank Dep. ... ... ... ... 4 0 7 3 4 Sale, Filing Cabinet ... ... ... 6 0 0 £ 1096 18 3 1/2 PAYMENTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. Salary and National Insurance ... 254 0 7 Payment to W.P.P.A for "International 27 10 5 Women's News" ... Stationery ... ... ... ... 2 19 5 1/2 Telephone and Telegrams ... ... 7 7 6 Postages ... ... ... ... 8 1 4 Loss on sale Brazil Bonds ... ... 131 19 6 Miscellaneous : Liaison Committee 2 2 0 Hospitality 2 2 0 Sundries 1 7 8 1/2 5 11 8 1/2 Balances, Dec. 31st, 1944: Post Office 492 9 1 Barclay's Bank : Deposit 41 1 2 Current A/c. 124 12 5 Petty Cash 1 5 1 1/2 659 7 9 1/2 £1096 18 3 1/2 We have seen the Accounts with the relevant Documents and find them correct. (Signed) M. I. Corbett Ashby, President N. Spiller, Treasurer February 23rd, 1945. [*38*] INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN SUFFRAGE AND EQUAL CITIZENSHIP Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ending December 31st, 1945 RECEIPTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. Balance, January 1st, 1945 : Post Office Savings Bank ... ... 492 9 1 Barclay's Bank : Deposit ... ... ... ... 41 1 2 Current A/c. ... ... ... ... 124 12 5 Petty Cash ... ... ... ... ... 1 5 1 1/2 659 7 9 1/2 Donations ... ... ... ... 17 14 0 "International Women's News" ... 37 0 4 Affiliation Fees ... ... ... ... 48 7 0 Members' Fees ... ... ... ... 51 3 0 Sale Cupboard ... 14 0 0 Interests : P.O.S.B. ... ... ... ... 10 6 1 Bank Deposit ... ... ... ... 4 0 10 10 1 £838 2 2 1/2 PAYMENTS. £ s. d. £ s. d. Salary and National Insurance ... 253 19 0 Payment to W.P.P.A for "International Women's News" ... 49 9 0 Printing and Stationery ... ... ... ... 17 13 11 1/2 Telephone and Telegrams ... ... 42 0 8 1/2 Postages ... ... ... ... 12 16 6 Miscellaneous : Income Tax 4 10 0 Duplicating 1 11 6 Hire Hall 2 10 0 Liaison Committee 1 10 0 Geneva Expenses 38 6 6 Sundries 5 14 11 1/2 54 4 11 1/2 Balances, Dec. 31st, 1945: Post Office Savings Bank 273 6 2 Barclay's Bank : Deposit 41 5 2 Current A/c. 92 16 1 Petty Cash 10 8 407 18 1 £838 2 2 1/2 I have seen the above Accounts, with the Bank and P.O.S.B. Books. March 26th, 1946. (Signed) N. Spiller, Treasurer. [*39*] INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE OF THE 14th CONGRESS In Swiss francs in account with Lloyds and National Provincial Bank, Geneva RECEIPTS frs. Gifts from Mlle. Gourd 10000.00 Delegates' Fees, etc. 968.40 Total ... ... ... 10968.40 EXPENDITURE frs. Stationary, printing, petty cash ... ... 546.35 Kursaal: entrance, reception ... ... ... 966.20 Salaries. ... ... .. 862.80 Hotel expenses, etc. ... 1064.35 Quartet and Choir ... 153.40 Interpreting ... ... 180.00 *Advances to delegates 1226.90 Bank expenses ... ... 5.00 Balance ... ... ... 5963.40 Total ... ... ... 10968.40 *This item has been repaid, but necessarily in sterling: see a/c below. In Sterling account with Barclay's Bank, Victoria Street, London RECEIPTS £ s. d. Delegates' Fees ... 26 2 0 Repayment of advances in Swiss Currency or sterling ... 78 17 8 Total ... ... £104 19 8 EXPENDITURE £ s. d. Printing: call, reports, cards, programmes ... ... 45 5 6 Mlle. Strub's expenses 7 0 0 Staff expenses (journey, etc.) ... ... 27 14 9 Press ... ... ... 9 0 Advances to delegates 7 10 0 Balance ... ... ... 17 0 5 Total ... ... £104 19 8 The donations made at the Congress, being intended for future work have not been included in the Congress receipts, but are shown on the next page. Note. — It is necessary to show two separate accounts, as there are two banking accounts. For the convenience of members it may be stated that the cost of the Congress, excluding the printing of the present Report, was roughly £300, against which actual receipts from fees should be set, amounting roughly to £83. 40 DONATIONS AND PLEDGES MADE AT THE 14th CONGRESS, INTERLAKEN, AUGUST, 1946 ENGLISH MONEY £ s. d. *Baroness Pol Boël ... ... ... ... ... 5 0 0 Mme. Sacconi ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 Mme. Mazziotti ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 Mme. Joannides ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 Mlle. Ginsberg ... ... ... ... ... 2 0 0 Dr. Brachyahu ... ... ... ... ... 5 0 0 Mme. de Silvestri ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 Mme. Theodoropoulos ... ... ... ... 10 0 0 * Mrs. Clement Davies ... ... ... ... 5 0 0 Mme. Sandesky Scelba ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 *The Maharani of Vizianagram ... 71 0 0 Great Britain ... ... ... ... ... 10 0 0 Miss Mary Hoc (annual donation of £5 for 3 years) ... ... ... ... 15 0 0 Mrs. Corbett Ashby (annual donation of £100 for 3 years) ... ... ... ... ... 300 0 0 *Mrs. Dakky Kiaer ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 *Mrs. Bush ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 *Mrs. M. Bonnevie ... ... ... ... 2 0 0 *Mlle. Assem ... ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 £433 0 0 SWISS MONEY frs. *Dutch Society ... ... ... ... ... ... 20.0 *Mme Zanas ... ... ... ... ... ... 35.0 *Thun Meeting ... ... ... ... ... ... 170.0 *Mme. E. Rothen ... ... ... ... ... 10.0 235.0 FRENCH MONEY frs. Mme. Vavasseur ... ... ... ... ... 500 *Mme. Boyer ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 *Mme. Brunschvicg ... ... ... ... ... 500 *Mme. Sabor ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 Ligue française pour le Droit des Femmes ... ... 6000 8000 EGYPTIAN MONEY £E *Mme. Charaoui ... ... ... ... ... 10 Mme. Charaoui ... ... ... .... ... 50 Mrs. Zelwianski ... ... ... ... ... 1 Dr. Brachyahu ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 62 41 AMERICAN MONEY $ Judge Kenyon ... ... ... ... ... ... 25 Miss Lord Strauss (annual donation $25 for 3 years) 75 100 *Gifts so marked have already been received. In addition 23 new Associate Members joined the Alliance, paying £1 a year. ----------------- REPORT OF THE WORK OF THE BOARD AND HEADQUARTERS since the Copenhaguen Congress, 1939. The Board elected at the Copenhagen Congress has only been able to hold three meetings: in Paris, March 1940; at the President's home in Sussex in April 1945, and in London in March 1946. In addition the International Committee (Board and Presidents of affiliated societies) met in Geneva in October 1945. During the war years such work as was possible had to be carried on by the President and Headquarters in London, with the advice of such members of the Board as were there or who could be reached by letter. It was very fortunate that, for the most part, it was possible to correspond with the Hon. Secretary, Mlle Gourd, in Geneva, though not without difficulty and delay. In Memoriam These years of tragedy have brought heavy losses to the Alliance. Our beloved Vice-President, Frantiska Plaminkova, went back from Copenhagen to almost certain persecution and imprisonment. She was, we believe, imprisoned and tortured in 1939, then released but again arrested and shot after the murder of the notorious Heydrich. She was a great woman and a true and valiant feminist. Rosa Manus, who had been a well-known figure in the Alliance almost from its beginnings, to whom affection and esteem went out from all who worked with her, trod the tragic path of prison, successive concentration camps, until we have but too much reason to fear she ended her unselfish life in the gas chambers of Auschwitz. No more innocent person ever died for her principles. Halina Siemienska was only elected to the Board at Copenhagen though she had worked the Alliance Equal Moral Standard Committee for some years. The Board had warmly welcomed this new colleague with whom it was 42 destined never to work, for after passing through terrible tragedy and grief through the murder of her husband and family, she was herself done to death in Warsaw. Alison Neilans, known throughout the world for her devoted work for an Equal Moral Standard, was struck down by a terrible form of paralysis which deprived her of the power of speech. No one who heard her will forget the eloquence and sincerity of her speeches at many Alliance meetings, or can fail to gauge the depth of the tragedy. She was saved by death from further suffering and disability. Lastly, but a few months ago, only last January, the Alliance lost its devoted Hon. Secretary, Emilie Gourd. What that loss means to our work can only be fully appreciated by her immediate colleagues, but countless member have known her both at Congresses and by correspondence, and all will have recognised her true international spirit and her limitless devotion to the cause of women. Outbreak of War Directly after war was declared, it was decided to effect every possible economy, by closing the London office and arranging for the Secretary to work from her home in the country. The records were stored free through the generosity of the President, and for the first months the ordinary work was carried on without interruption. The Congress Report was published and distributed; the Congress Resolutions were set for action to the Societies, Governments, etc. The societies were asked to nominate members to the international standing committees; and the International Women's News was published as usual. The Board met in Paris in March 1940 when it still seemed possible to plan a programme of work, including a Conference in Switzerland. Those plans and all the programme adopted at the Copenhagen Congress had to be put aside as country after country was overrun and occupied by the Germans, and the possibility of communication between headquarters and Europe practically ceased. In view of the possibility of invasion of Britain, involving the entire isolation of the President and Headquarters, provisional plans were made to ensure that the direction of the Alliance was uninterrupted. Copies of lists of societies and members, reports, etc., were sent to Mrs. Catt in the U.S.A., to Mlle. Gourd in Geneva, and to Dr. Bertha Lutz in Brazil, who were all fully instructed as to co-operation and taking over responsibility whenever they might learn from the Press that Britain had been invaded. Fortunately these emergency measures never had to be put into effect. 43 But from that time the work of the Alliance was much restricted. A brief account as follows gives a survey of what was still possible. Work during the war years Until March 1940 when the Board of the Alliance was able to meet in Paris, it was still possible to maintain contacts and make plans. But almost immediately thereafter the war took on its total character and the result was constantly increasing difficulty and restriction in communications. Even where postal services still operated, mail was slow and uncertain. What has been our work during these years? The larger part of real international work has been done in co-operation with the Liaison Committee of Women's International Organisations which has met regularly in London. Deputations were taken to every Government represented in London to present resolutions on women's right to work and need for equal status. Efforts were made to ensure that women were eligible for real participation both in the Allied Military Government Organisation and in UNRRA. Governments and other official bodies have also been approached on many other matters affecting women and their war and post-war activities and status. In contact with women from many other countries-especially where their Governments were functioning in London-consultations and conferences were held on women's point of view on various questions, such as health and housing, as well as citizenship and nationality. Through these contacts it was hoped to get a common viewpoint as a basis for recommendations in regard to reconstruction, though that aim was not unfortunately achieved. It may yet permit the Liaison Committee to present certain points of view at future international conferences. The Liaison Committee organised a most successful course of training for social work to fit women to return to their countries ready to give skilled help in relief and rehabilitation. The course was so good that the whole plan was taken over by the British Council which has organised several series on the same lines. Approaches have also been made to the I.L.O. and other international bodies to ensure that women's interests and point of view were not forgotten and that suitable women wee included in delegations to international conferences such as Dumbarton Oaks and San Francisco. The Committee also sent to the San Francisco Conference a declaration on fundamental equality and human rights. Apart from this work wit the Liaison Committee, the Alliance has sent separately letters and memoranda to the 44 I.L.O. on the need for economic equality, to various governments and so on, and to such of its auxiliaries as it could reach to urge the appointment of women to their official delegations to conference etc. We are glad to know that our efforts helped to secure the appointment of Dr. Bertha Lutz as an official delegate from Brazil to the I.L.O. Conference last year and to San Francisco. During the years when no international meeting was possible, the small group of Board members in London* has met from time to time to consider various questions. That of the continuance of International Women's News during the war is dealt with separately. It has been a point of honour to continue as far as possible the ordinary routine work. Accounts have been kept and correspondence carried on as usual as far as possibilities permitted. Every society we could reach has continued to keep in touch with us and to pay its fees. Since the end of the war, contacts have been gradually renewed with liberated countries, but after such a break we feel that personal contacts are essential for a renewal of co-operation of an active kind. Contacts were made with a number of women from other countries living over here, but it so happened that few among those who came to England had been members of our national societies, and the Alliance was careful not to make any formal ties which might later have created difficulties. We organised several series of tea-meetings to give these women and our British members the opportunity of meeting each other and learning something of women's doing and views both Great Britain and other countries. This is a very brief report and the results must inevitably seem small. Intensive international work was not possible, but it seemed to us in England that we were trustees for the continuance of the Alliance in being, so that when the moment came for reunion, we could present our colleagues from other countries with a nucleus of organisation and contacts ready to work again on a wider programme. While we recognise with thankfulness our good fortune, we know that you will all realise that even for us conditions have not been easy. Though all our colleagues here have escaped serious damage, nearly five years of bombardment from the air in many forms has been our lot and that with other difficulties has made life hard and complicated. If we say so much, it is because we must ask you to realise that * Mrs. Corbett Ashby, Mrs. Schreiber, Mrs. Spiller and Mrs. Rischbieth 45 we have tried to do our best in the circumstances. We hope that you will feel that the expenditure incurred has been worth while to prevent the Alliance from going completely into abeyance. It seemed to us, and still seems to us that had that happened it would have been practically impossible to revive it. 1945-1946 Even before peace was actually declared, it was possible to hold a meeting of the Board in England, at the home of the President, in April 1945. That meeting was very largely a matter of making contact again and surveying existing conditions. It was decided to call the International Committee to consider the immediate programme and some suggestions were made as to the lines to follow. The International Committee met in October 1945 in Geneva. Unfortunately the President was prevented from attending at the last moment, owing to a sudden and serious operation on her husband. Mlle. Gourd was too ill to come to more than one sitting. Those who were able to see and talk to her at her home will all feel grateful that at least they had the joy of seeing her once more. The number of societies represented was small as travel was at that time still extremely difficult. Those present and others, by letter, gave short reports on their national work and changes in the status of women and discussed the future of the Alliance. The proposal made but not fully considered to the Board Meeting previously by Dr. Rydh that the Alliance should send teams of women to different countries to make a study of the conditions of the women's movement in each and possibly help in its reorganization and co-ordination, was brought up again, and proposals were considered for financing if. The main question was when and where to hold the next Congress of the Alliance, and how to present a programme on feminist principles bu with a modern form. When the Board met in March 1946, this question was the predominant one together with the proposal for Travelling Commissions. The Board considered various invitations for holding the Congress, and finally that of Switzerland was gratefully accepted. In regard to the travelling commissions, Mrs. Ashby reported that she had just returned from a visit to Norway to ask the Nobel Committee to give a grant towards the expenses. The Committee would not meet till May but she had seen the Chairman who had been sympathetic though he could not engage his Committee. A tentative scheme for such travel- 46 ling teams was made, and the hope was expressed that some more definite plan might be submitted to the Congress if financial prospects were favourable. Co-operation with the work of the United Nations The President and Treasurer attended the sessions of the first Assembly of the U.N. in London in January, and two special points for action were dealt with by the Board. As the Charter of the United Nations has clearly stated its adherence to the principle of the equality of men and women, it is important that women's organizations should be ready to do all in their power to ensure that this principle is put into practice, both nationally by the signatory nations and internationally in the work of the United Nations. The setting up of a sub-commission, under the Commission on Human Rights, with Mrs. Roosevelt as Chairman, to consider the Status of Women is we hope evidence of a desire to study how to take action or make recommendations in regard to raising this status to that of equal citizenship with men. In conjunction with the Liaison Committee of Women's International Organizations, nominations of suitable women to this commission have been made and its work must be closely followed. In regard to the whole field of work of the U.N., as the Charter proposes that private organizations may be officially associated with this work, an application has been made to the Social and Economic Council for the Alliance to be recognized as such a co-operating organization. Membership of the Board. Since the loss of several members had brought the number of members well below the total of 21, it was considered that it would be valuable to exercise the power of co-option to include members from countries not represented. Approach was therefore made to the United States, and the nomination of Mrs. Louis Slade, a well-known former suffragist and long-standing member of the Alliance, and of Miss Dorothy Kenyon, a member of the League of Nations Committee on the Status of Women, were warmly welcomed. Also through contacts established with the Soviet Women's Anti-Fascist Committee in Moscow (perhaps the only purely women's organization in the U.S.S.R.) Mme Tatiana Feodorova was also co-opted. These three appointments still leave the Board under strength, but it was considered that further co-options so near the date of a Congress when elections will he held, were not desirable. We have to announce with regret that Mme Feodorova has tendered her resignation as she is now a member of the Executive of the new International Democratic Federation of 47 Women, founded as a result of the International Conference of Women held in Paris in November 1945. M.I. CORBETT ASHBY, President. KATHERINE BOMPAS, Secretary. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS After the spring of 1940, when almost all Europe became impossible to reach by post from England, the circulation of the paper, already small, dropped to almost nothing. It was obviously impossible to continue to print it, while the international news from other countries, on which it largely depended, was equally cut off. How to keep the paper, which had survived the first world war, alive was a difficult problem which was only solved by handling it over for the duration of the war to an English group called the Women's Publicity Planning Association. International Women's News was therefore "lent" to this group under an agreement which guaranteed its continued feminist policy and such effort at giving international news as was possible. The President of the Alliance was Chairman, and the Headquarters Secretary a member of the Editorial Committee. The paper was kept at a high standard, and its policy on feminist questions has been sound. Its circulation in Great Britain and some overseas countries was increased, but nevertheless it was run at a considerable loss to W.P.P.A. At the end of 1945, therefore, and in accordance with the agreement made, W.P.P.A. handed back the paper to the Alliance with its good will in subscribers. The Alliance owes a debt of gratitude to W.P.P.A. and its Chairman, Mrs. Sieff, for keeping its paper alive throughout the war, and for the great efforts made to increase its circulation, which were halted by the Government refusal to allot more paper for a larger issue. Since January of this year, therefore, the paper has been published by the Alliance and edited by Miss Hamilton Smith in an honorary capacity, whose generous kindness in undertaking this work calls for warm thanks. The position is however extremely precarious. At the end of May the paid-up subscribers only numbered about 450, though probably another 50 from overseas should be counted as owing to long posts they are only technically in arrears with their payment. In addition the paper goes to each affiliated society, and to a considerable number of press representatives, libraries, etc., free. A certain number are also distributed "on sale or return" terms through women's groups in England. 48 In the six months January-June, 1946 during which the Alliance has been responsible for the paper, the cost has been approximately L166 (printing L127, salaries and sundries L36, article L3), while the receipts from subscriptions were only about L95. The deficit has been nearly meet by the sum handed over by W.P.P.A. for unexpired subscriptions, but it appear that on the present circulation the annual deficit would amount to about L140 to L150 a year. The international subscription list is still very small, as the continued difficulty of sending small sums internationally and the general loss of contacts and still unsettled conditions has made it seem difficult to approach former subscribers in many countries. Moreover, the whole question of increasing the circulation, especially in non-English speaking countries, requires a special policy. At headquarters there is not the staff, nor have we or can we have the means to take effective steps in this direction. The circulation of any international paper of our type must depend for the most part on the co-operation of is member groups. The Board decided at its last meeting that it was necessary to ask each affiliated society to take out a block of at least 20 annual subscriptions, collecting the amount from those members who would be willing to take the paper, and sending it in a lump sum to headquarters. If at the same time the list of members taking the paper in this way were given, the copies would be dispatched direct. UNLESS THE AFFILIATED SOCIETIES ARE WILLING TO SUBSIDIZE THE PAPER in this way, it seems probable that it may shortly have to come to an end. And yet the Alliance needs this link between its members and between country and country. If it could be pt on a better financial basis, it might become an even more valuable international messenger of understanding and comradeship. The difficulties of language must be admitted, and can never be wholly eliminated, but with a wider circulation and more funds, it would be possible to use at least French and English. There is another essential need which only the members can supply and that is news. Only the societies can really supply us - and regularly - with the news we specially want: news about women. No ordinary general papers give exactly that news, even women's papers give it partially or in an overamplified form which needs laborious perusal and compression. We would indeed welcome the sending of papers, both feminist and other, but we do ask also for SPECIAL CORRESPONDENTS named by each society to send news at once and briefly. Without that help the paper cannot be as international as it should. We also want special articles, 49 not too long, but sufficiently descriptive and explanatory to give the background of reforms or new social experiments. The International Women's News is the organ of the Alliance, and the Alliance is the sum of the affiliated societies. For forty years this modest but valiant little paper has braved the storms of wars and economic crises. Does the Alliance feel no pride and no affection for it? Will it not take some thought for its future and make some effort to use and improve it? KATHERINE BOMPAS REPORTS FROM AFFILIATED SOCIETIES NOTE. - It is regretted that not every delegation handed in a Report, so that the list is incomplete. The need to print the Congress Report as quickly as possible made it impossible to wait to obtain those missing. CZECHOSLOVAKIA NOTE. - A very long and interesting report in French was submitted, which limitations of space makes it impossible to publish here. A brief summary has therefore been made in English. The work of women is united in the National Front of Czechoslovak Women, composed of representatives of the four political parties (Communist, Social Democrat, Socialist and Popular) and representatives of the Czechoslovak Council of Women. The Women's Front unites women for action in favour of women's claims, the reconstruction of the country, the destruction of fascism, and the attainment of world peace. It works through local committees for women's civic education, equal rights, establishment of creches, etc. It publishes a journal, and approaches the government on behalf of women's needs and collaboration. It also works for the appointment of women as delegates (for instance to the United Nations), in various important posts, etc. The Council of Women is a non-party organisation, working for equal rights for women, their full participation in the democratic state, and it has branches in different towns and is in contact with the principal women's organisations in Slovakia. It has also affiliated to it many specialised women's organisations, and has representatives from the four political parties, the trade unions, co-operatives and youth movements. It is working for the reform of the Civil Code, nationality 50 rights for women on marriage, women police, equal pay, etc. It also has a Committee for Health and Social questions, for Education, Physical Training, Economic questions, Social Insurance, Technical Improvements in the Home and the Work of the Housewife, Agriculture, Industry and Culture. On all these questions it pursues its aim of sex equality and the participation of women in the life of their democratic state. The Council issues its own paper, and works in active co-operation with the Czechoslovak Radio Service to ensure the diffusion of news about women. Lastly, the Council has set up a Committee for National Defence, holding that men and women citizens must be equally responsible for providing the basis of an adequate defence for their country should it be attacked. It is pointed out that during the war and the occupation women gave such evidence of courage and devotion and wide capabilities, that they now feel that a share in the defence of their country is for them not only a duty but a right. EGYPTE L'Union Femiste Egyptienne En Egypte comme partout ailleurs, la guerre a généralisé l'évolution féminine. L'activité des femmes s'est surtout reportée dans les domaines nationaux, sociaux et humanitaires: la défense passive, le Croissant Rouge; les sociétés philanthropiques combattant la maladie et l'ignorance, la tuberculose, la malaria, ce fléau qui a fait des milliers de victimes en Hte Egypte. Si bien que les pouvoirs publics à l'heure actuelle font appel à ces mêmes sociétés pour l'exécution du programme gouvernemental tendant à combattre l'ignorance, la maladie et la misère. Dans cet appel se trouve une reconnaissance tacite de l'étendue et de l'efficacité de l'action féminine. Dans les classes laborieuses les difficultés toujours plus dures de l'existence (rationnement de vivres, cherté de la vie) ont fait disparaître totalment le préjugé discréditant le travail féminin. Le nombre des travailleuses n'a pas cessé d'augmenter dans les usines, les ateliers, les fabriques, les maisons de commerce, les bureaux, etc. La lutte contre l'analphabétisme décidée dernièrement par le Parlement ne fera qu'accroître le nombre de ces travailleuses. D'autre part la diffusion de l'instruction à tous ses degrés, aussi bien parmi les filles que les garçons, et le nombre sans cesse croissant des jeunes filles universitaires a considérablement étendue le champ d'activité de la femme. A l'Université 51 Egyptienne le nombre des étudiantes qui était en 1939 de 373 a atteint cette année celui de 637. A la faculté des lettres on compte presque le même nombre d'étudiants des deux sexes. Les dernières facultés fermées aux jeunes filles, celle de l'Agriculture et de Polytechnique viennent cette année de leur être accessibles. Cette élite intellectuelle féminine est pour notre mouvement d'un très heureux augure. En effet on compte aujourd'hui un grand nombre de femmes exerçant les carrières libérales: avocates devant les tribunaux civils et religieux, médecins, pharmaciennes, chimistes, pilotes, journalistes, etc. Dans les services de l'État, les femmes commencent à accéder aux postes supérieurs. Tandisqu'autrefois les femmes fonctionnaires appartenaient seulement à la catégorie des institutrices, des sages-femmes ou infirmières, aujourd'hui il y en a beaucoup dans les Administrations, à la Censure des Films, à la Radio, à l'Inspection du Travail et au Conseil de Tutelle appelé le Meglis-el-Hasbi. Sous le Ministère précédent une jeune fille, Mlle. Lakkani, a été nommée pour la première fois secrétaire privée du Ministre des Finances et faisait fonction de Chef de Cabinet (ce fut une grande innovation). Mme. Mansour Fahmy a été nommé Directrice de l'Enseignement Technique Féminin ce qui lui donnait droit à une place jamais occupée par les femmes et Dr. Doria Fahmy a été nommée professeur- adjoint à la Faculté de Lettres. Au Ministère des Affaires Sociales, dans beaucoup d'institutions (refuges, asiles, maisons de reforme), dans des commissions gouvernementales, des femmes spécialisées ont été nommées. Un arrêté ministeriel a permis maintenant aux institutrices infirmières, employées de téléphone, de se marier et de garder leurs postes (elles étaient autrefois licenciées après le mariage). Malgré les revendications de l'U.F.E., de certains parlementaires féministes, le droit de suffrage ne nous a pas encore été accordé. Mais plusieurs projets de lois tendant à faire disparaître certaines inégalités ont été présentés dernièrement aux Chambres par la Commission de la Justice. Ils sont tous inspirés par les désideratas du dernier Congrès féministe arabe tenu au Caire en décembre 1944. Ce sont notamment des lois protégeant l'enfant mineur de la dilapidation de ses biens par un père trop prodigue, ou le retrait de la tutelle paternelle du père indigne, l'exécution des recommandations de la Commission de l'Hygiene Publique préconisant l'abolition de la prostitution et la création d'institutions de refuges et d'écoles professionnelles pour les prostituées de métier. Dans beaucoup de provinces égyptiennes c'est la population elle-même qui réclame du gouvernement 52 la fermeture des maisons de tolérance. Aussi croyons-nous que bientôt graduellement ce système d'exploitation inique aura bientôt disparu d'Egypte. Mais la plus grande victoire obtenue par l'U.F.E. durant les 7 années de guerre a été de grouper en un bloc uni et solidaire les femmes de tous les pays arabes du Proche-Orient (Irak, Syrie, Liban, Palestine, Transjourdanie, Egypte), en vue d'une collaboration fraternelle pour un idéal commun de justice, de liberté, d'égalité et de paix. Le statut politique et législatif presque identique des nations orientales comme leurs aspirations semblables ont permis aux représentants de ces pays d'obtenir l'unanimité quant aux reformes à réaliser. Tout a contribué à faire de ce congrès dont les résolutions ont eu de vives repercussions et constituent le programme d'avenir des pays arabes — un évennement historique dans les annales de l'émancipation de la femme orientale. FRANCE L'Union Française pour le Suffrage des Femmes Pendant la guerre, notre Association est restée forcément inactive. Neanmoins quelques unes de ses dirigeantes ont pu exercer une action personnelle, aussi bien dans les mouvements de résistance que sur les événements qui se sont déroulés à Alger et à Paris dans les premières assemblées de la France libérée, où se décida notre sort. Nous avons eu nos martyres: déportées, fusillées, femmes exécutées à la hâche. L'une d'elle, qui demeura de longues années secrétaire générale de notre groupe de Lille, fut ainsi assassinée: elle est parmi les vingt héros qui reposent près de Paris, au Mont Valérien, héros qui pour les français symbolisent la résistance à la domination étrangère et à l'esclavage. Dés le début de nos épreuves, le Général de Gaull avait fait également appel aux femmes et aux hommes: il n'y a pas eu à le regretter. Tout ce que la France avait de meilleur s'est offert à lui, et ceux qui furent à la peine, devaient forcément se retrouver ensuite à l'honneur. La résistance au travail forcé sous le contrôle ennemi, ou dans les forces civiles du maquis, a créé entre hommes et femmes une fraternité profonde et un climat favorable à l'égalité de nos droits. Ensemble ils avaient souffert, ensemble ils avaient le droit et le devoir de participer à la reconstruction du pays. C'est ainsi que dans les syndicats, les hommes ont été aussi ardents que les femmes à exiger pour elles leurs droits de citoyen. C'est la Confédération Générale du Travail et la Con- 53 fédération des Syndicats Chrétiens qui ont obtenu il y a quelques jours la suppression de l'inégalité de 10% qui subsistait encore entre les salaires de base masculine et féminine. C'est là un succès symptomatique de l'opinion ouvrière en faveur de l'égalité de nos droits. Ce qui nous reste à obtenir en France, c'est l'adaptation de nos lois, notamment pour le Code Civil, au principe d'égalité que proclame très certainement notre prochaine Constitution. Nous aurons également à veiller à ce que les femmes s occupent effectivement les hauts emplois administratifs et les postes de choix: c'est là une action vigilante que nos associations auront encore à exercer pendant des longues années. GREAT BRITAIN St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance The Women's Freedom League The National Women's Citizens Association Position of Women 1940-46 During the war a revolution took place in the lives of women of all ages. For the first time in history they were conscripted for war service. In February 1941 came the Registration of Employment Order which obliged women of 18 to 41 to register for "direction" into National Service, By December the National Service No. 2 Act conscripted unmarried women and childless widows between 20 and 30 into the Women Auxiliary Services "or certain specified vacancies in industry. " 1942: Fire watching for women was made compulsory. 1943: Registration of Employment Order extended to include women up to 51. Managements were made for part: time work 1944. The Government reported that of 16 million women between 14 and 59 years of age, nearly half were in the Auxiliary Services, the WRNS (of which the former Chairman of St. Joan's, Dame Vera Laughton Mathews, bas been Director for eight years), the A.T.S., W.A.A F.s, whole time Civil Defence, or Industry. Others were in the Women's Voluntary Services or Fire Guard, and the Women's Land Army The remainder were girls at school and married women with young children doing more than a full-time job in the home. There were also a large number of women who took in and cared for billetes, not to speak of the super human work of those women who managed to keep homes in despite the bombing and in many cases with the double burden of a job as well 54 Equal Pay: The question of equal pay was a sore spot throughout the war, for the principle of equal pay for equal work was only applied to women doing processes of work previously performed by men, e.g., bus conductors, and the tendency was to evade the issue. Women in the Forces and in Civil Defence received two-thirds of the rates of pay and messing allowances given to men, when often doing the same work and facing the same risks. One small exception was the granting of equal pay to the women Air Ferry Pilots after a stiff fight. Thus an important precedent was created. One glaring inequality was that of compensation for civilian war injuries. After nearly four years battling by the women's organisations this was remedied, thanks to the skilful manner in which Mrs. Tate piloted the matter through Parliament; all civilians sustaining war injuries received a flat rate of compensation irrespective of sex or occupation. The principle of equal pay was pressed whenever possible. In 1944, on the Education Act, one victory was the abolition of the marriage bar for teachers (granted for expediency, not principle). On the same Bill on a motion of Mrs. Cazalet Keir, an amendment for equal salary scales for men and women defeated the Government by one vote. Mr. Churchill turned the matter into a vote of confidence in the Government, and the vote was reversed. Instead a Royal Commission which nobody wanted was set up to examine the question of equal pay. We still await their report. Labour Party is pledged to equal pay, so is the T.U.C., but still we have not achieved equal pay. The Equal Moral Standard: St. Joan's Alliance on several occasions made representations to the Government protesting against the provision of, and instruction in the use of prophylactic packets for men in the Services under the pretext of hygiene and insisting that the distribution of these packets is a direct encouragement to immorality. They also asked that broels should be placed out of bounds to members of H.M. Forces A vigorous protest was made by the women's organisations led by the Association for Moral and Social Hygiene against the introduction of Regulation 33B, a form of neo regulation (This regulation obliges any man or woman accused by two independent patients suffering from V.D. of being their suspected source of infection, to submit to medical examination and to undergo, if found diseased, the treatment prescribed by the M.O.H. on pain of three months' imprisonment or a fine of £100 or both). St. Joan's Alliance called for its annulment on the grounds that it would act as an incentive to vice, is repugnant to British sense of justice, and 55 would tend to increase rather than diminish disease. Constructive measures for dealing with the matter were suggested. Nationality of Married Women: The matter has become increasingly urgent owing to the number of marriages of British-born women with members of the Allied forces. In 1943 amendments were introduced in Parliament to the Government's Nationality Bill, but without success. A special ad hoc Committee of representatives of women's organisations has worked uncreasingly for a change in the law which would give equal and independent nationality rights to men and women. Uniformity throughout the British Commonwealth has always been the excuse for delay. Thanks to the intensive work of the women's organisations here and in the Dominions this agreement has now been reached with the Dominions. The Home Secretary announced this fact on August 1st and foreshadowed the desired legislation. National Insurance: The Joint Standing Parliamentary Committee of Women's Organisations, of which the three British Auxiliaries are constituent societies, has worked actively since October 1944 for equality under the proposed National Insurance Schemes. They asked for equal contributions and benefits, equal retiring age and the inclusion of married women on the same basis, as other persons. Unfortunately the Government Bill has retained all these inequalities. and married women are left to the arbitrary powers of the Minister. One amendment was secured by the work of the feminist organisations, viz., that the employed married woman is automatically insured unless she asks to be exempt. The Foreign Service has at last this year been opened to women, but the numbers of women to be recruited are for the moment to be limited to 10 per cent. of the total and there is a marriage bar. House of Lords: Still barred to women. Women in Parliament: In the "Long Parliament" we had 24 women M.P's. and they were ever on the alert and often worked as a team, e.g., on equal compensation for war injuries. Lady Astor, the first woman to take her seat, celebrated her silver jubilee as M.P. in December 1944 and all women's organisations combined to do her honour. Four women held office in the "Long Parliament" as Parliamentary Secretaries to the Ministries of Health, Food, Pensions and Home Security respectively. In the Caretaker Government, there was a Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education. At the General Election in 1945 24 women were elected, 56 21 of the Labour Party, one Conservative, one Liberal, and Miss Rathbone (Independent), whose recent death was greatly mourned by women's organisations and the refugees of all countries, whose cause she had made her own. Her name will ever be associated with Family Allowances, for which she had laboured unceasingly for very many years. She lived to see the first instalment of this on the Statute Book. The new Government brought us our second Cabinet Minister, who is Minister of Education. There is also a Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food. The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Pensions has resigned owing to another post outside Parliament, so there are now only 22 women M.P's. Though women have been appointed to many important posts hitherto not open to women, e.g., Prison Governor; Stipendiary Magistrate: Deputy Recorder; Deputy Coroner; Woman Inspector of Constabulary. etc., there are still numbers of Government's committees on which no women serve. The low economic status of the Housewife has come before the public, arising out of several law cases. The number of Police Women is steadily growing. The salaries of Nurses have been considerably increased. The status and pay of Domestic Servants was the subject of a Government survey. Royal Commission on Population: St. Joan's Alliance submitted a memorandum. Colonial Affairs: The women of Bermuda, Jamaica and Trinidad have won the vote. The question of the forced marriages of African girls was again brought to the notice of the Colonial Office on a deputation of Women's Organisations convened by the N.C.W. which pressed for the appointment of more women in the Colonial Service. It is gratifying to note that many posts in this Service are being filled increasingly by women, especially in the education and welfare departments. On the numerous Advisory Commissions of the Colonial Office there are a fair proportion of women. United Nations: Representations were made to the U.N. re equality of the sexes being written into the Charter through the U.K. Government; also to the I.L.O. regarding equal pay in dependent territories. In all these matters and in many others the three affiliated Societies have taken an active part either singly or in cooperation with other women's organisations, chiefly with the Joint Standing Committee of Women's Organisations; the 57 Nationality of Married Women Committee; the Equal Pay Campaign Committee; the Status of Women Committee. St Joan's Alliance has published its paper, "The Catholic Citizen," monthly throughout, and the Women's Freedom League publishes a fortnightly bulletin. GREECE Ligue Hellénique pour les Droits des Femmes When the dictatorship was established in August 1936, the Government ordered the closure of our League's office and the seizure of our furniture, archives, printed matter, etc. Our fight for women's rights was incompatible with a regime which intended to remove the word "liberty" from the Greek language. The police made house-to-house searches, and any document which could be open to suspicion brought the danger of imprisonment or exile, not only to the possessor but to the inmates of the whole building. Many members of our League were persecuted and those of us who possessed any documents were forced to destroy them. Nevertheless our Executive Committee met secretly and tried to help the victims of the dictatorship. Money was raised by concerts, etc. in friends' houses, and we turned to social work and later to the resistance movement. Under cover of charitable work, we managed to form a committee to help the victims of the enemy occupation: hostages, deportees and internees in concentration camps. In spite of growing suspicion, we managed to continue this work until the hour of liberation. We have now gradually reconstituted the work of the League. The declaration of equality without distinction of sex in the Charter of the United Nations gave us hope that the demands of our feminist movement would be quickly and easily met. Unfortunately this was not the case. Alone of the countries signing the Charter, ours has failed to give women their rights in spite of the inestimable service women gave to their country during the years of war and occupation: service which has been officially recognised in the most flattering terms. But the bitter experience of women has awakened a consciousness of their rights. Throughout Greece new organisations have been established to demand the complete equality of the sexes: political, economic and social. A Pan-Hellenic Federation has been founded to which many women's societies belong, and last May it held a Congress to discuss women's problems. A resolution for full franchise rights was submitted to the Chamber of Deputies, but it has not yet found any place on the orders of the day. 58 The work of our League is concentrated on this main aim. We took part in the fight for the liberation of our country and we have the right to an active share in the work of reconstruction as free citizens. 1. Political Status: Greek women have not the political vote for the National Parliament. Suffrage for local councils (municipal vote) but not eligibility. Age limit 30 years and only for women who can read and write. There are no women in the Parliament. 2. Civil Status: In accordance with the new Civil Code (1946) husband and wife must take part in the sustenance of the home according to their ability, either by pecuniary means, by activity in the home, or other ways. Marriage does not limit the parties' power to enter into agreements, but there is no community of acquisition. Every article in the home is considered as belonging to the husband. The New Civil Code contains many other clauses which are unfavourable for women, against which the Greek League for Women's rights has protested. 3. Economic Status: The war has completely ruined our country. Education has suffered more than anything else. Many schools that were closed since the beginning of the war (1940) are not yet opened, as the buildings are still occupied by the army (both Greek and British) or by the police forces. The standard of the education of women is exceedingly low. Analphabetism of women is 58%. For this reason the majority of women are agricultural or factory workers Owing to the war, many women had to occupy men's places, entering thus into new fields of action. The organisation of Social Welfare Centres by the International Red Cross, Swiss Red Cross and UNRRA offered the opportunity to many women of the middle and higher classes to work professionally in social services for which they worked voluntarily before the war. In general, women in civil and private services meet with a great many obstacles for their promotion, not always on account of the laws and regulations, but from the narrow-mindedness of the staffs and committees. Women's salaries continue to be lower than men's. Women do not serve in the armed forces. In 1925 a 59 corps of women's auxiliary service was founded. Peasant women in Epirus helped the Greek Army to win the war against Italy in 1940. During the occupation women served in resistance movements as soldiers, officers and in auxiliary services in towns and in the mountains. There were many casualties and heroic deaths of women. Many women were executed by the Germans in concentration camps. HOLLAND Nederlandsche Vereeniging voor Vrouwenbelangen en Gelyk Staatsburgerschap After the German invasion in May 1940, our Society could not do very much during the years of the occupation. Very soon after the arrival of the Germans a regulation was made ordering all societies to be registered. One of the members of our headquarters then resigned because he was a Jew and, if he hadn't, the Society would have been considered as a Jewish Society and would have been put under German control. We tried to keep up contact with our branches but we did not succeed very well. Our President fell ill and remained so during the whole period of the occupation. Another member of our headquarters was taken as a political prisoner and shot. Nevertheless, the women's movement went on during these years and we reaped dividends on two sides. On one hand, the women had to take over their husband's work when their husbands were taken prisoner or sent to Germany to work in the factories for war material (which was the case with half a million men) or had gone underground to do illegal work. The women, therefore, had to look after their households, to provide the food, which became more and more difficult, and to take over their husbands' work in order to provide for the living of their families. Thus, they gained more self-confidence, more sense of responsibility and more interest in the common welfare. One the other hand, the men began to appreciate their wives and daughters more and more. They realised the value of carrying on the household and they found that they could not carry on with illegal resistance if the women and girls did not help them. Therefore, when Parliament had to be re-appointed in November 1945, it was considered quite obvious that the places held by women before the war should again be occupied by women. The men even agreed to give two more places to women, so now we have seven women out of one hundred members in the House of Deputées and two out of fifty in the Senate. Without much difficulty the professions 60 of burgomaster and of notary-public, until now closed to women, have been opened to them. We feel that there is more real comradeship after the war than before and that men are quite willing to listen to us and to consider our wishes. Nevertheless, we feel that we have too few capable women to fill the higher positions and that now a period of training and study is necessary. Every woman has to take some part in public and social life; she has to go on with the work for which she has been educated and has to try to do it well so as to keep her contacts with the outer world. ITALY Italian Alliance of Women for Liberty, Equality and Peace When Fascism imposed its point of view on all Italian associations, none excepted, the Italian Women's Alliance was dissolved and her re-birth was made possible only in 1944, when liberty of association was re-established and when the Women's Alliance was ready to put their hands to construction. A Votes for Women campaign was started by the Alliance and once the vote was obtained the Alliance started teaching women to use this great conquest and through a series of lessons on political education enabled women to get clear ideas of the ideals and aims of the various Italian parties. The President of the Italian Alliance is a physician, Teresita Sandesky Scelba, an untiring and energetic woman, endowed with a young and enthusiastic nature, always ready to understand and to help. The work of the Alliance is mostly done by Work Commissions which report to the Board of Directors first and to the General Assembly later. Commissions already formed are: 1. School Problems Commission regarding reforms in teaching methods and study of all education problems. 2. Peace Commission, the President of which is Baronness Mazziotti. 3. Prisons Reform Commission, to which belong several women, considering the problem from its medical, moral and technical point of view. 4. Labour Commission, which is concerned with the protection of women's work and their position as state employees, with professional women and with women's rights as head of family and as housewives. The Italian women claim to work on equality with men in all circumstances, individual merit and capacity to be the sole considerations. 61 The Women's Alliance has urged the restoration to their former use of school premises occupied by civilians, left homeless by war, and by soldiers of all countries and armies, thus depriving thousands of children of the opportunity of school education. The problems of reconstruction are vast and can only be solved slowly. Mrs. Sangiorgi, representing the Alliance, is trying to improve the life of children and to rescue them from the corrupt and lawless lives so many of them are leading as a result of the miseries of the war. During the electoral campaign the Women's Alliance instituted a rational propaganda campaign to prevent women from renouncing their rights and duties of citizenship and to encourage them to give their votes to capable women so as to obtain a considerable feminine influence at the Assemblea Constituente. Four members of the Italian Women's Alliance stood as candidates to three different parties, which demonstrates the non-political basis of the Alliance. One of them, Mrs. A. Cingolani, was elected Deputy to the Assemblea Constituente. Though it proved very difficult to interest the Italian Press in their activity, they have been able to publish some articles, selecting the subjects they consider most important. They have sometimes used the radio for propaganda and they never miss an occasion to attend a congress or a meeting. They share every national and international event of human concern. There are two sections of the Alliance in Milan and Crema and associated women in several towns directly connected with the Central Board. It is hoped that these may prove the nucleus for other sections to be formed. The Alliance increases slowly but surely her membership with new associates, women who for twenty years have had to renounce all posts of responsibility and who, for the first time, are now taking an active part in their country's politics. All of them, from the youngest to the pioneers of the Italian feminist movement, heartily wish to contribute with women all over the world to the elevation of women and to the elevation of humanity in general. LEBANON The Lebanese Arab Women Federation The Lebanese Arab Women Federation regrets that the World War severed all communication between us for the last seven years, and we heartily welcome the Interlaken Congress as a means of rejoining our efforts and renewing our conjoined campaign for international co-operation and a more lasting peace. 62 We believe that women's efforts for better understanding and better co-operation, should not be now less than the efforts made by women during the general strife. The World War, hateful as it might be, had, however one good point, namely the establishing of the ever questioned capability of women to work side by side with men, with equal skill and efficiency. Moreover, we believe that in no time in history should the voice of woman be more heard, the council of woman be more sought, and the rights of woman more championed than in this present post-war era, when the scheme of a new world and a scale for new valuations are being planned. All the Arab Women's Federations of the various Arab countries, namely, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Palestine, Transjordan and Lebanon, met in a Congress in Cairo in December 1944 and decided to unite in one big Federation, namely, the "Pan-Arab Women Federation" with Headquarters in Cairo and Mrs. Sharaoui as President and the Presidents of the different Federations in the various Arab countries as Vice-Presidents. Our aim in taking this step was to unify our efforts in the social and political fields and to work hand in hand with the Arab League in safeguarding the political rights and interests of the Arab world in general. The important side of our work, however, shall not make us less zealous in carrying on our efforts for gaining equal rights and citizenship, and for propagating more international feeling and sympathy among womankind and mankind. The Haidar-Abad Congress which we joined in December 1945, is another instance of the grouping together of Eastern women who stand now in one row fighting for women's suffrage as well as for the four freedoms of the Atlantic Charter. We shall presume now to put before you a brief sketch of our efforts. Our Arab Lebanese Federation is composed of 30 affiliated societies from the different parts of the Lebanese Republic. The various committees on our board take an interest in the social and political problems of the country namely, child welfare, prison welfare and the founding of reformatories, health welfare, compulsory education and the founding of more schools for girls, the abolition of prostitution, etc. We have achieved great progress in gaining the sympathy of public opinion and a number of or M.P.'s backed up fervently our constant demands for equal political rights; and we are hoping that in a not very far future our suffrage will be given to us. The percentage of illiteracy in the country is becoming very small, infant mortality is diminishing year after year 63 and the number of health centres and day nurseries for poor children is also on the rise. Many women doctors are being graduated, with a number of lawyers, pharmacists and dentists. Our Government Bureaus are full of efficient, well educated women secretaries, and so our big business firms; and we are full of hopes for the future. NEW ZEALAND United Council of Women When war broke out the Mayor and Mayoress of Auckland called together all recognised organisations which were registered and combined to work for the war effort. We worked in canteens, for the Red Cross (two members of our Council being elected for the Red Cross Central Committee), and in a Residential Nursery set up in a large house given by a man who had lost his only son. Mothers were able to leave their children there is they themselves were ill, or were having another baby. The money was raised by collections, big fairs, etc. We also collected clothes and food for England and for UNRAA. Two of our Vice-Presidents were very active workers, visiting hospitals, entertaining troops, etc. One, who was formerly an M.P., established valuable connections with the Government through which we were able to study social institutions, such as mental hospitals, and work for their improvement. Our Council studied these matters, and also arranged meetings on international questions, with discussions. Our most important achievement was to secure recognition from the Government for our international work. The importance of women's delegations is now understood and it is possible to get permission to travel. We have also won recognition from the Press. The principal papers not only publish our news, but ask us for it. We have also spoken on the radio on international work and the Report of our International Congress at Interlaken is urgently wanted. Now that the war is over we hope to extend our organisation to cover the whole country and increase our international work. NORWAY The Norwegian Society for Women's Rights In the short period between the 13th Congress in July 1939 and the 9th of April, 1940, when we were occupied by the Germans, we had several meetings. At one of these, Aaslaug Aasland (the actual Secretary for Social Affairs) 64 dealt with the draft bill on domestic work, being herself Chairman of the Committee for this law. But because of the war the bill has not yet been dealt with in the Storting. Among the many appeals we made to the authorities we mention: To the National Committee for House Planning and to the Municipal Authorities concerning extension of kindergarten and day-nurseries. Revision of the unequal age-limits for men and women and extension of the rights of the mothers according to the Social Insurance Bill. To the Government concerning the admission of women to all governmental posts. Here we made the following statement: "At present, when the democratic government is endangered in many countries, or has been put out of action, it is especially important that the smaller nations firmly stick to the principle of equality for all citizens." And in February 1940 we appealed, this time at the request of the International Alliance and the Danish Women's Association, for the revision of married women's nationality. On August 16th, 1940, our Association got its first direct reminder of the occupation. The Gestapo laid hand on our office and took with them all our files. The National Council of Women, to which we were affiliated, was in July 1941 taken over by the Nazis - as a result of a protest on the part of many big associations against the government Quisling. When the Nazis then asked us for co-operation, we withdrew from the Council. Afterwards we were prevented from doing any work, being in every respect under the German heel. Immediately after the liberation we turned to the Storting with an appeal to take women into the government. And we did succeed to the extent that Mrs. Kirsten Hansteen, whose husband had been shot as the leader of the labour organisation, was made a consultative Secretary of State, and that later on, Asslaug Aasland, Inspector of Industrial Work, took her place. At the same time we made an appeal to the Government to name a committee to inquire into the problems of women's professions and to put forward suggestions of laws, reforms and actions. In the autumn of 1945 we were one of the 16 women's organisations - among whom were represented all the political parties - who formed a new Women's Committee, "The Women's Co-operation Committee," which aims at bringing forward to the government and the Storting important questions upon which all women agree. This Committee is to be seen as the result of the resistance movement. Mrs. Bonnevie, as a representative of this new organization, took 65 part in the Congress of the International Democratic Federation in Paris in November 1945. Through the Liaison-Committee branch in Oslo, we have tried to get women into the Norwegian delegation to UNO. Mrs. Frieda Dalen was appointed an advising member to the first meeting. And in August this year Mrs. Aase Liones was appointed one of the alternative representatives of the Norwegian Government. Among post-war meetings we mention a Danish-Swedish evening with Dr. Hanna Rydh and Mrs. Lis Groes who, together with Mrs. Bonnevie, continued their discussion over the radio. Before the elections we arranged meetings with speakers from the political parties and later Mrs. Bonnevie made over the radio an appeal to women to take an active part in the elections. Thanks to cumulative votes we got comparatively many women in the municipal councils. As regards the election to the Storting, we got seven women representatives out of 150 and many women were elected vice-representatives. In February 1946 we attended the Congress of the Nordic Feminists' Organisation in Copenhagen and also took part in the 75th anniversary of the Danish Women's Association. Among the decisions taken at this meeting the most interesting ones for Norway were the one on separate taxation for married people and the one on pension for single mothers (non-married, separated and divorced, and widows) with under-aged children and a small income. We have this pension already in some towns, but we want to get it all over the country. After the Congress in Copenhagen Mrs. Corbett Ashby went to Oslo where, in the Nobel Hall, she gave an outstanding lecture on "Women's Citizenship and Peace." Lately the Nobel Committee has alloted a sum to the International Alliance for its work for peace. Thanks to the ten years' leadership of Mrs. Bonnevie our old Society has been brought back to full activity, and in the spring this year it was changed from an organisation with only individual members into an organisation with affiliated local societies. Our first efforts will tend to strengthen and to extend the Society and to concentrate on educational work. PALESTINE Palestine Jewish Women's Equal Rights Association The P.J.W.E.R.A. has kept up its regular work during all the years of the war. It has started three new branches, 66 thus bringing up the total to 7; it has also considerably increased the membership of the existing branches. Our Association has continued through all these years its systematic work of enlightenment on feminist questions. Lectures have been given on various subjects relating to urgent problems of the day and to the status of women in our country and abroad. The "International Women's News" and the "Women's Freedom League Bulletin," though arriving many months late, served as important sources of information on problems of women in England and supplied us with subjects for discussion in our clubs. Especial interest was roused among our members by the question of equal compensation for war injuries. The Atlantic Charter, the Beveridge Social Insurance Plan, were also the subjects of lively discussions. Members of our Central Committee took an active part in propaganda in favour of volunteering for the Allied Fighting Forces, especially to the A.T.S. As a result of our propaganda over 3,000 girls joined up. Naturally our Association took part in all activities to help our refugees in Europe. Our paper, the "News of the P.J.W.E.R.A.," continued to appear, though at irregular intervals. Our Legal Advice Centres in all our branches continued their regular work in spite of all difficulties. Thousands of cases of family disputes have passed through these Advice Centres. The vast material accumulated illustrates the very unsatisfactory legal status of the Jewish married woman. On the basis of this evidence, our Association demanded that the institutions concerned (the Supreme Rabbinical Court) should introduce certain definite improvements in the family status of the Jewish married women. The activities of the Association have resulted in the following achievements for the benefit of women and children (Supreme Rabbinical Court Regulations of 1942): 1. The Childless Widow (Halizah) According to an ancient Jewish law, a childless widow may not remarry without the permission of hr deceased husband's brother (if such exists). In the event that the brother-in-law refuses to grant such permission (effected through a prescribed ceremony) he is now (since the regulation of 1942) obliged to pay her alimony until such time as he agrees. 2. Maintenance of Children. In cases of separation of the parents, the father must now 67 support his children up to the age of 15, instead of the previously much lower age. 3. The Marriage Contract L50 has been added to the L10 formerly fixed as minimum in the marriage contract - payable in case of death or divorce - thus bringing the total minimum amount up to L60. 4. Permission to Marry a Second Wife without Divorcing the First According to a regulation of the Supreme Rabbinical Court (1942), permission for this purpose must in each and every case be confirmed by the Supreme Council of the Rabbis of Palestine. Elections: Our Association took part in elections in 1943 (elections to the Jewish Community Counsel in Jerusalem) and in 1944, in the general elections to the Jewish Chamber of Representatives. As is our custom, we participated in these elections with our own women's ticket. We find that even if the number of women elected on our ticket be small, the appearance of a separate women's ticket induces the political parties to give women better places on their party tickets, for fear of losing women's votes. In 1945 our Association celebrated the 25th anniversary of its foundation. Large public meetings were held in all our branches, with speeches by representatives of the Jewish National Council, the Jewish Community Councils, etc., and a letter of appreciation was sent by the Rabbinical Court. SWEDEN Frederika-Breer Forbundet Since the Frederika-Bremer Association sent its last report to the International Alliance of Women in 1939 the war has placed insurmountable barriers between our various countries and has rendered all international contact impossible. This report will therefore deal with our work over a period of more than six years, and in view of the limited space to our disposal it must be rather a brief outline. During the last few years the war has naturally put its stamp on our work, causing us to be active in fields not mentioned in our rules. Thus the Fredrika-Bremer Association has taken part in the periodic collections of clothes, pots and pans, and above all, of food, which have been organized in Sweden for the benefit of the occupied countries, more especially our neighbouring countries. The Association has also joined in the different meetings at which Swedish women 68 have during the war expressed their opinion on the problems of the day. Our Association, together with 22 other women's organizations, organized a large meeting in the Stockholm Concert Hall on the 12th of February, 1940. The platform of the meeting was "Against Total War and for Peace and Reconciliation." The President of our Association, Dr. Hanna Rydh, delivered a speech at the meeting. After the meeting the "Committee of Swedish Women's Organizations for International Questions" was constituted, with Miss Kerstin Hesselgren as President. Our representative is Dr. Rydh. the Committee has organized two other women's meetings at the Concert Hall, the first on the 30th of January 1941, dealing with "The responsibility of women for democracy and the future of the nation." Finally there was a meeting in April,1945 which lasted for three days. At this meeting delegates were present from 43 different women's organizations representing 300,000 members. Leading Swedish women amongst others our President, delivered speeches on the problems of the world on the eve of peace and Elsa Brandstrom, who was then on a short visit to her native country, talked about "Reconstruction." We also wish to mention that when Norway had in 1942 to go through unspeakable hardships the first authoritative expression of sympathy was an open letter from the women of Sweden to the women of Norway. This letter emanated from the above mentioned committee, but had been inspired by Dr. Rydh. Our annual meetings have also to some extent been influenced by the problems occupying the centre of public interest. In 1940 we discussed "Problems connected with evacuation," in 1942 lectures were given on women's military service and women's community work, and on how to work for peace. In 1943 we listened to a lecture on the military position on the various fronts, but also - a little more optimistically - on "International problems of reconstruction, with special reference to Scandinavia." Finally, in 1946 we heard Mrs. Bodil Begtrup talk about "Work in the United Nations;" and there was also a lecture on "East and West in International affairs." The war and international questions have, however, not been allowed to shadow our real field of work, the struggle to unite Swedish women in work for the community,to further their qualifications and workers in different fields, and to improve the standing of women in their homes, in the community and in the State. This work is, as before, carried on in different ways. The Fredrika-Bremer Association has been asked to give its opinion on many of the important and extensive bills put forward during the last few years on 69 vital questions in the social field. As examples may be mentioned bills concerning domestic training, family allowances, maternity aid, servants' working conditions, state insurance against illness and the revision of the sex disqualification removal act. It will perhaps be of some interest to the Alliance that Dr. Rydh has been a member of the Committees which have presented the above mentioned bills on the domestic training and on the revision of the sex disqualification removal act. The Association has also taken the initiative for or taken part in petitions to the authorities in other questions of importance to women. We have, for example, on several occasions stated the importance of taking the necessary steps to bring into being a special institution, a "Home Department," in order to secure a purposeful unanimous and effective handling within the state machine of questions concerning problems of the family and home. The Association has supported motions in the Riksdag for introducing new bills on the right of a married woman to bear her own names after marriage and to retain her nationality even if she goes to live abroad. In several petitions the Association has impressed on the authorities the necessity of appointing women as members of the various Committees and war-time Commissions. The question of the domestic training of young girls, which is of great public interest, has often been discussed at our meetings, and the results of the discussions have been brought to the knowledge of the authorities. A new means of awakening interest among women in social and political problems has been found in a series of pamphlets published by the Fredrika-Bremer Association together with the publishers Naturoch Kultur. Among the topics dealt with may be mentioned "Part-time Work," "Women as Salaried Workers," "The Choice of a Profession and the Contribution of Women in the Labour Market" and "Our Parliament—Does it Concern Us?" Social courses have been arranged immediately after our annual meetings. One such course was held in 1939 and dealt with the subject "Towns and the Younger Generation." Other subjects have been "Questions Concerning our Parliament" and "Youth and Family Problems." In 1944 and 1945 we have also arranged special social courses lasting a week or longer for women in the provinces. The subject has been "Women in their Homes and in Society." In 1939 Dr. Rydh started special meetings for women in local government. Since then these meetings have developed into an institution and more than 70 have been held in different parts of the country. Their programmes have been filled with lectures on social problems and with group discussions on the special subjects in which those present were interested 70 as a result of their work on the various boards and committees to which they belonged. Finally, it may be mentioned that our Association tries to make its local branches intensify their work through lectures and studies. The Headquarters in Stockholm help them by procuring lecturers and giving advice on suitable literature. The work of making women partake in politics has been carried on in different ways. At our annual meetings we have, for instance, discussed topics such as "Women in the Community and in Politics" and the "The Work for Increased Representation of Women through the Coming Elections." The principal organ for this part of our activities has, however, been the "Committee for Increased Representation of Women," which was constituted in 1937 at the suggestion of our President. Dr. Rydh was the Chairman of the Committee until 1945, when she was succeeded by our Vice-President, Mrs. Anna Britta Heckscher. The Committee has functioned before every public election. It has arranged meetings dealing with the elections and has distributed suitable material for study, standard lectures, newspaper articles and propaganda bills. It has also provided lectures for local meetings. The Fredrika-Bremer Association has provided a room for the Committee and has lent its employees for most of the necessary work. We should like to mention that our monthly periodical "Hertha" still appears 10 times a year. Every member receives the periodical free. Our various schools and our Committee for scholarships naturally also continue their work. Through the indefatigable energy of our President the Association had the joy increasing both its membership and its number of local branches. The local branches, which in 1938 amounted to 44, are now 82. The membership of the Association was about 7,000 in 1938 and is now 11,700. The Association, however, continues its work to reach an ever-increasing number of women in order to make them aware that Swedish women must use their rights and know their duties as citizens of their country and be willing to take their share of civil responsibility. Association of Swedish Women Citizens Since our last meeting in Copenhagen in the year 1939, when the horizon darkened and warned us of the coming world storm, the Association of Swedish Women Citizens has confined its international work to its neighbouring countries, Norway, Denmark and Finland, and on a much smaller scale. Our members were mostly engaged in aiding children and refugees from the occupied countries. The President of 71 the Union, Mrs. Ellen Hagen, was the representative of the Swedish "Norway Aid" Executive Committee, the only woman member of the Committee. We have also sent money and as many gift parcels as we possibly could to the Women's Unions in the neighbouring countries, especially to Norway and Finland. Our work of enlightening the voters and for the greater participation of women in elections and for increased women representation in Parliament and Municipal Councils has been successful. In some country councils there are 25% women members! We are very thankful that our country was saved from war. We believe, and have told our members, that if women had had greater influence, mankind would have escaped the world tragedy. SWITZERLAND Association suisse pour le Suffrage féminin I. Introduction Comme vous le savez, la Suisse fait malheureusement toujours partie des Etats où les femmes ne possèdent pas le droit de vote; dans certains cantons seulement des droits restreints sont accordés aux femmes: l'éligibilité en matière scolaire, pour la tutelle, l'assistance, l'église et les tribuneaux de prud'hommes (dans ce dernier domaine, less femmes ont un droit de vote actif). La grosse difficulté, pour laquelle notre pays eat un des derniers à accorder l'égalité des droits politiques aux femmes, réside dans le fait que tous les hommes ayant le droit de vote doivent se prononcer sur une modification de la constitution tant sur le terrain cantonal que fédéral, modification, indispensable pour introduire le suffrage féminin. Cette double consultation populaire n'est nécessaire dans aucun autre pays. Actuallement, deux votations, dans deux demi-cantons, ont été négatives. II. Nos efforts sur le terrain fédéral Bien que la guerre ait éclaté, nous demandions en automne 1939 aux Chambres fédérales de traiter enfin les motions relatives à l'introduction du droit de vote des femmes en matière fédérale, motions en suspens depuis 1919. Contre toute attente, un postulat Oprech réclamant les droits politiques complets pour les femmes fut déposé au Conseil national en juin 1944, émanant pour la plupart des milieux de gauche. Nous nous sommes immédiatement approchés des représentants d'autres partis, en leur demandant de soutenir eux aussi ce postulat. Dans notre pays, le droit de vote des femmes a la plus grande partie des adversaires dans les partis de droite; il trouve des partisans moderes dans les partis du centre; tandis qu'il est au programme des partis de gauche: social-democrates et communistes. Il est cependant interesssant de constater que la masse des hommes qui devait se prononcer sur l'introduction du suffrate feminin. n'on absolument pas suivi le mot d'ordre de leur parti. Les femmes des partis de gauche, qui sont organisses, ont travaille activement en faveur du droit de vote, mail leur influence sur les hommes de leur parti n'est apparamment pas tres grande. On a de plus tendance a ancourager les femmes a exercer une activite dans les partis. Si les femmes sont members des partis, elles peuvent plus facilement convaincre des femmes , et elles ont ainsi le seul moyen de faire nommer des femmes dans les commissions officielles, formmes par les representants des partis politiques, telles que commissions scolaires et d'aassistance, etc. Le postulat Oprecht (du nom de son autrer) susmentionne a ete discute par le Conseil national de decembre 1945 et renvoye au Conceil federal pour qu'il presente un rapport. Nous avons lance une petition avec 37 autres associations feminines pour appuyer le postulat, et nous avons fonde un comite d'action dond Mlle. Quinche, Dr. Jur, est presidente. Nous attendons maintenent le rapport di Cpmceo; federa;/ III. Nos efforts les Cantons. Malgre de grosses difficultes resultant des consultations populaires, quelques ont tente de provoquer des votations: a Berne, a Geneve, a Neuchatel. Ces derniers projets ont cependant ete repousses par des votations populaires en 1940 ey 1941, alors qu'a Berne, on lutte tourjjours pour obtenir le droit de vote communal. Despuis, dans plusieurs cantons, des motions ont ete desposees par des divers partis revendicant soit des droits limites en matiere ecclesiastique, scolaire et sociale, soit le droit de vote sur terrain communal, soit encore le droit de vote complet dans le domaine contonal. Partout, nous avons cree des comites d'action qui deploient une grande activite. Aujourd'hu, des actions de propagande sont menes dans 17 cantons sur 25. Sont compris dans ce chiffre les demi-cantons de Bale- Ville (ou 37% des votants se sont prononces pour 63% contre le droit de suffrage cantonal des femmes, en juin, avec une participation au scrutin de moins de 60%) et Bale- Campagne (ou au debut de juillet 27.1% des hommes ont vote oui et 72.9% non, avec une participation de 48% seulement!). D'Autres votations populaires suivront, dont quelques unes cette annee encore. 73 IV. Collaboration avec les autorités fédérales et les commissions extra-parlementaires Il y aura deux ans bientôt qu'un postulat Dietschi a été adopté par le Conseil national, postulat pour ouvrir la porte des commissions extra-parlementaires aux femmes. Notre association luttait depuis des dizaines d'années pour la participation de femmes compétentes à ces commissions: elle peut considérer l'acceptation de ce postulat comme un succès. Nous avons pu ainsi obtenir que soient élues: 2 femmes à la commission fédérale pour la lutte contre l'alcoolisme; 8 femmes à la commission d'étude pour l'assurance-maternité: 1 femme à la commission d'experts pour la revision de I l'assurance maladie;1 femme dans la commission consultative pour l'étude de la Charte des Nations unies. Au début de la guerre, les autorités se sont vues obligées d'avoir recours à la collaboration des femmes pour la solution de problèmes économiques. Une commission consultative féminine a été créée, qui a été convoquée à de nombreuses séances en commun avec l'Office de guerre pour l'alimentation, et I' expérience de cette commission a certainement contribué a l'application sans heurt du système de rationnement. Nous faisons également des efforts pour que des femmes soient engagées dans les services diplomatiques. La requête que nous avions faite pour que des femmes fassent partie de la commission d'experts pour l'assurance vieillesse et survivants n'a obtenu aucun succès, comme toutes nos démarches pour que la femme suisse mariée à un étranger puisse conserver la nationalité suisse. V. Prise de position à l'égard de la législation Nous profitons de votations fédérales ou cantonales pour adresser des pétitions aux autorités, pour leur demander des entrevues, pour faire distribuer des feuilles volantes, pour écrire des articles, et pour faire apposer des affiches, toujours nous protestons contre l'exclusion des femmes des élections et votations. VI. L'éducation civique de la femme Etant donné que dans notre pays, toute personne qui dispose des droits politiques n'est non seulement appelée à élire les autorités fédérales, cantonales et communales, mais doit se prononcer sur toutes sortes de matières, c'est, en définitive, le peuple qui joue le rôle législateur; aussi nos efforts pour l'obtention du droit de vote doivent également tendre à préparer la femme à son activité de citoyenne. Notre secrétariat central féminin suisse apporte sa contribution aux tâches d'éducation et de propagande. Ce secrétariat a été créé voici bientôt trois ans, avec l'aide d'autres organisations féminines. 74 Nous nous efforçons, en outre, depuis des années, de faire introduire l'instruction civique dans les écoles de jeunes filles de tous les cantons. Les parlements de jeunesse, créés indépendamment de notre nouvement, depuis quelques années, dans plusieurs cantons, ont toute notre sympathie. Dans ces parlements, jeunes gens et jeunes filles discutent en commun toutes les questions d'actualité politiques; ils sont organisés comme un véritable Parlement, avec groupements politiques qui déposent des motions; ils constituent une excellente école politique pour les jeunes; ils contribuent à convaincre la jeunesse, par la pratique, de la nécessité de la collaboration de la femme. VII. Comité et membres de l'Association Notre association compte maintenant 30 sections avec environ 3,300 membres. Nous avons salué récemment la fondation de 4 nouvelles sections dans le canton du Tessin, c'est-à-dire en Suisse italienne. Notre Comité réunit 9 membres des différentes parties de la Suisse et de différentes langues. Dans nos actions, nous constatons que tous les groupements politiques du canton sont représentés; il y a donc une grande indépendance cantonale dans nos sections, et cependant le travail d'ensemble de notre association a bien un caractère nettement suisse. VIII. Conclusion. Dans tous les cantons, nos membres se sont mis au service de la patrie pendant la guerre et ont collaboré avec les services complémentaires féminines, les oeuvres sociales de l'armée, l'aide aux émigrants, aux enfants des réfugiés, et l'aide suisse pour l'étranger. La contribution immense des femmes pendant les années de guerre a été reconnue par de nombreux hommes, et beaucoup d'entre eux en ont conclu que les femmes méritent d'avoir maintenant des droits plus étendus. UNITED STATES The National League of Women Voters The position of women in the U.S.A. is sufficiently good to enable the League of Women Voters to give their more sustained interest to general education in citizenship. The field of work, both of education and reform is enormous and very varied, since the 48 States of the Union are at different stages of social development and differ widely as between industry and agriculture. The platform of the League is as follows: 75 1. Government by the People requires: (a) The protection of the citizen in his constitutional rights, especially those of freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and press. (b) Removal of legal and administrative discriminations against women. Protection of minority groups against discrimination. (c) A system of free public education with equal opportunity for all and adequate protection for academic freedom. d) Legal protection of all citizens in their right to vote. To this end the League has supported or may support: Registration systems designed to facilitate voting and protect against fraud. Specific legislation designed to insure for women equal guardianship, jury service, independent citizenship. Opposition to the equal rights amendment. Federal aid to public education administered by state departments of education. II. Government of the People requires: (a) A system of government in which responsibility is clearly fixed. (b) A system of government which is responsive to the will of the people and which enables the voter to carry out his obligation as a citizen. (c) A system of government which constantly seeks to operate more efficiently. To this end the League has supported or may support: Improved methods of selecting and retaining qualified personnel. Adequate appropriations to support public services. Adoption of an equitable and co-ordinated system of federal, state and local taxation. Development of state and local tax and administrative units, large enough for efficiency and economy. Co-ordination between federal, state and local governments for public health and welfare. III. Government of the People requires: (a) The assumption of responsibility by government for social problems which affect the general welfare. (b) Mutual responsibility of government, business, agriculture and labour for solving economic problems in the public interest. (c) Conservation and development of natural resources in the public interest. 76 To this end the League has supported or may support: Control of child labour, social security measures for children, protection of dependent, delinquent and neglected children. Old age and unemployment insurance, provisions for relief and old age assistance. Extension of coverage for the social insurance programme. Slum clearance and public subsidised housing for low income groups. A housing programme based on sound community planning. The right to bargain collectively, maximum hour and minimum wage standards, a federal-state system of public employment offices. Opposition to inter-state trade barriers. Equal employment opportunities for members of minority groups. Equal pay for equal work. IV. That such Government shall not perish from the earth requires: (a) Recognition of the interdependence of the world. (b) The co-operative method of solving international problems. (c) Adoption of domestic policies which will facilitate the solution of international problems. To this end the League has supported or may support: Membership in a general international organisation to include all peoples regardless of race, religion or political persuasion for peaceful settlement of disputes, with power to prevent or stop aggression. Participation in international agencies to solve common political, economic and social problems. International agreements for the limitation of armaments. The reduction of trade restrictions. A tariff policy as exemplified by the reciprocal trade agreements programme. Opposition to racial discrimination in immigration laws. LIST OF DELEGATES BOARD MEMBERS Mrs. Corbett Ashby (President), "Wickens," Birch Grove, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England. Mrs. Adele Schreiber, 54 Gilling Court, Belsize Grove, London, N.W.3, England. Mme. Marguerite Boyer, 448 rue Paradis, Marseilles, France. 77 Judge Dorothy Kenyon, 50 Broadway, New York, U.S.A. Miss Marie Ginsberg, 162 West 56th Street, New York, U.S.A. Mme. Hoda Charaoui Pacha, 2 rue Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo, Egypt. Dr. Hanna Rydh, Johannesgaten 20, Stockholm, Sweden. Mrs. Nina Spiller, 32 Argyle Road, Ilford, Essex, England. Mrs. Margarete Bonnevie, Thomas Heyftes Gate 64c., Oslo, Norway. Mme. Andrée Lehmann, 3 rue Victor Massé, Paris 9, France. Mlle. Rocha as proxy for Mme. Heloise Rocha, Oficina Comercial del Gobierno del Brasil, Plaza Cataluna 21, Barcelona, Spain. ARGENTINE Miss Giselle Shaw, c/o Morgan's Bank, Place Vendome, Paris, France. AUSTRALIA Mrs. Guy Innes, c/o British Commonwealth League, 7, Helenslea Avenue, Golders Green, London, N.W. 11, England. Miss Chave Collisson, 10, Thurlow Road, London, N.W.3, England. Miss Marjorie Skill, c/o Australian Federation of Women Voters, The Astor, 6, Etham Avenue, Darling Point, New South Wales, Australia. DENMARK Senator Ingeborg Hansen, Nikolaj Plads 26, Copenhagen, Denmark. Mrs. Astrid Anderson, "Karnappen," Niels Hemmingsensgade 10, Copenhagen, Denmark. EGYPT Mme. Hoda Charaoui Pacha, 2 rue Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo Egypt. Mme. Nabarouy, 12, rue Rolo-Méadi, Cairo, Egypt. Mlle. Assem, 13 Ibrahim Neguib St., Garden City, Cairo, Egypt. Mme. Maher, c/o Union Feministe Egyptienne, 2 Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo, Egypt. Mme. Harb, c/o Union Féministe Egyptienne, 2 Kasr-el-Nil, Cairo, Egypt. FRANCE Union Francaise pour le Suffrage des Femmes Mme. Brunschvicg, I, Boulevard Richard Wallace, Neuilly- sur-Siene, France. Mme. Germain, II, Rue Marcoz, Chambéry, Savoie, France. 78 Mme. Marguerite Schwab, 5 rue Mesnil, Paris, France. Mme. Clara Simon, 30 rue Washington, Paris, France. Mme. Vavasseur, 6 rue Faraday, Paris, France. Mme. Pionso-Chapuis, M.P., Palais-Bourbon, Paris, France. Alternates Mme. Charrière, Chambéry, Savoie, France. Mlle. Collin, II, Avenue Pasteur, Chelles, Seine et Marne, France. Dr. Nöel 36 rue Charles Flognet, Paris, France. Mme. Regnault, 3 rue Ménabrea, Chambéry, Savoie, France. Mme. Odette Simon Bideaux, 30 rue Washington, Paris, France. Ligue Francaise pour le Droit des Femmes Mme. Andrée Lehmann, 3 rue Victor Massé, Paris 9, France. Mlle. C. Gillot, 29 rue du Lubeck, Paris, France. Mme. Elisabeth Cassou-Vernet, 31 rue du Sommerard, Paris 5, France. Mme. Legrand-Falco, 144, Avenue des Champs Elysees, Paris, France. Mme. Dr. Marc Schrader, 18 rue Deufert-Rochereau, Paris 5, France. Mme. Alice Poirier, 13 Chemin de la Cassine, Chambéry, Savoie, France. Alternate Mlle. Steiner, 6, Square du Croisie, Paris 15, France. GREAT BRITAIN St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance Miss Florence A. Barry, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London. W.I., England. Miss Pauline Brandt, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I., England. Miss B. Gadsby, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I, England. Mrs. Barbara Halpern, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I., England. Miss Christine Spender, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I., England. Alternates Mrs. Beer, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I, England. Miss Gabrielle Daye, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I, England. Miss Carmel Horne, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I, England. Miss Patricia Horne, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55, Berners Street, London, W.I, England. 79 Miss K. Moclair, c/o St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55. Berners Street, London, W.1, England, Miss M. Moclair, co St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance, 55. Berners Street, London, W.1, England. Women's Freedom League Miss Marian Reeves, Minerva Club, 28a, Brunswick Square, London, W.C., England. Mrs. A. E. Bush, 45. Magdalen Road, London, S.W.18, England. Mrs. Spiller, 32 Argyle Road, Ilford, Essex, England. Miss L. M. Thomas, 20, Brook Green, London, W.6, England Alternates Mrs. Munro-Hogs, Midway, Chichelle Road, Oxted, Surrey, England Miss Vicat Cole, l'Abri, Princes Road, St. Leonards-on-Sea, Sussex, England. Miss Garnett, 28a, Brunswick Square, London, W.C.1, England, National Women Citizens' Association Lady Pares, 5ia, Parkside, Wimbledon Common, London, S.W.19. England. Mrs. Clement Davies, Plas Dyffryn, Meifod, Montgomery, Wales. Miss Mary Hoc, 75, Hereford Road, London, W.2, England. Women for Westminster (Adhering Society) Mrs. E. M. Williams, 13. Dunsford Place, Bath, Somerset, England GREECE Mme. Avra Theodoropoulos, Dionysos Str. 16, Kifissia, Athens, Greece Mme. Virginie Zannas, Odos Dioharous 10, Athens, Greece. Mme. Joannides, Hanion 4b, Athens. Greece. HOLLAND Dr. C Bakker van Bosse, Nassaulaan 4, The Hague, Holland. Mrs. H. D. Everts-Goddard, Esschenlaan 77, Rotterdam, Holland. Dr. N. S. C. Tendeloo, Senator, Keizersgracht, 434. Amsterdam, Holland. Dr. J. Zeelenberg. Bergsingel 115. Rotterdam, Holland. INDIA Miss K. Parvathidevi, Guntur, Andhra Proving South India. The Maharani Vidyvati of Vizianagram, The Fort, Vizianagaram, South India. 80 INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN Baroness Pol Boel, 36 Boulevard du Régent, Brussels, Belgium. Dr. Renée Girod, 10, rue Charles Bonnet, Geneva, Switzerland Mme. Pichon-Landry, 102, rue de Grenelle, Paris 7, France. Alternate Miss van Veen, Secretary International Council Women, 36. Boulevard du Regent, Brussels, Belgium. ITALY Dr. A. T. Sandesky Scelba, via Fontanella di Borghese 48, Rome, Italy Mme. A. Cajumi de Silvestri, via Ramazzini 7, Milan, Italy. Mme. A. M Guidi Cingolani, M.P., piazza Campitelli 2, Rome, Italy Baronessa Anna Mazziotti, via Guglielmo Saliceto 5, Rome, Italy. Dott. Angiola Maria Sacconi, via Sebius 29, Rome, Italy. NEW ZEALAND Mrs. Armitage, c/o Royal Empire Society. Northumberland Avenue, London, W.C.2., England. NORWAY Mrs. Margarete Bonnevie, Thomas Heftyes gt. 64c, Oslo, Norway. Mrs. Dakky Kiaer, Havsfjord gt. 26b, Oslo, Norway. PALESTINE Dr. Anna Brachyahu, Beth Hakerem, Jerusalem, Palestine. Mrs. Ester Oren, 11, Montefiori Str., Tel-Aviv, Palestine. Dr. G. Zelvianska-Mangel, 2 Nachlat Benjamin Str., Tel Aviv, Palestine. SWEDEN Frederika Bremer Forbundet Dr. Hanna Rydh, Johannesgaten 20, Stockholm, Sweden. Mrs. Vera Bjorlingsson, F.B.F., Klarabergsgatan 48, Stockholm, Sweden. Mrs. E. M. Carlsson, F.B.F., Klarabergsgatan 48, Stockholm, Sweden Miss Britta Eriksson, Pontonjärgatan 4, Stockholm, Sweden. Mrs. Anna B. Heckscher, F.B.F., Klarabergsgatan 48, Stockholm, Sweden, Mrs. Elsa Malmroth, Hedingsgatan 15, Stockholm, Sweden. Dr. Sigrid Nygren, Nygatan 37. Skellefteå, Sweden. Miss Ingrid Svenson, c/o Mme. Amann-Krafft, Chalet "Los Dahlias," Champéry (Valais), Switzerland. 81 Svenska Kvinnors Medborgarforbund Mrs. Ellen Hagen, Runebergsgatan 3, Stockholm, Sweden. Miss Gudrun Langenheim, Skelderviken, Sweden. SWITZERLAND Mme. E Vischer Alioth, Austrasse 14, Basle, Switzerland. Mme. A. Leuch, 1, Chemin du Val d'Or, Pully-Lausanne, Switzerland. Dr. A. L. Grütter, Schwarztorstr. 20, Berne, Switzerland. Mlle. A. Quinche, rue Etraz 12, Lausanne, Switzerland. Mlle. Elisa Strub, Neugasse 17, Interlaken, Switzerland. Mlle. Thérése Grütter, Waisenhausstrasse 6, Thun, Switzerland. Mlle. Ida Weber, Turmgasse 1, St. Gallen, Switzerland. Mme. Adrienne Gonzonbach, Falkenhöheweg 19, Berne, Switzerland. Mlle. E. Kammacher, Place du Port 1, Geneva, Switzerland. Frl. M. L. Wild, Buchenweg 20, Liebefeld, Berne, Switzerland. Frau. E. Rothen-Liechti, Gurnigelweg 14, Berne, Switzerland. Frl. H. Stucki, a.b.s. Mme. Vischer Alioth, Austrasse 14, Basle, Switzerland. Alternates Frl. Frieda Engler, Tigerbergstrasse 2, St. Gallen, Switzerland. Mme. Decarli Orelli, Locarno, Switzerland. Mme M.A . Wyss-Russi, Colombier, Switzerland. Mme. Beerli, rue Beauregard 3, Geneva, Switzerland. Mme. M. Haberstich, Dahlhölzliweg 16, Berne, Switzerland. Dr. Marie Lehner, Kronbühl, St. Gallen, Switzerland. Frau. R. Gygi, Lessenbergstrasse 75, Biel, Berne, Switzerland. Mlle, Denise Lecoultre, Secretariat féminin suisse, Zurich, Switzerland. Dr. A. Vollenweider, Minervastrasse 59, Zurich, Switzerland. Dr. A. Debrit-Vogel, Bonstettenstrasse 16, Berne, Switzerland. Mlle. Sennwald, avenue du Mont d'Or 34, Lausanne, Switzerland. Mlle. Suzanne Bonard, Lausanne, Switzerland. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Judge Dorothy Kenyon, 50. Broadway, New York, U.S.A. Miss Anna Lord Strauss, 726, Jackson place, Washington 6, D.C., U.S.A. FRATERNAL DELEGATES INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS British Commonwealth League.-Lady Pares, 51a, Parkside, Wimbledon Common, London, S.W.19. England; Mrs. Guy Innes, c/o B.C.L, 7, Helenslea Avenue, Golders Green, London, N.W.11, England. 82 International Abolitionist Federation.-M. T. de Félice, 37, Quai Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland. International Co-operative Women's Guild-Mme. E Egli- Güttinger, Wibichstrasse 30, Zurich, Switzerland. International Democratic Federation of Women-Mme. Muret, rue Jouvenet 37, Paris 16, France. International Federation of Business and Professional Women. - Mme. Vavasseur, 6 rue Faraday, Paris, France. Women's International Zionist Organisation.-Frau. Bollag, Sulgenanweg, Berne, Switzerland. World Union of Women for International Concord-Mlle. M. Nobs, 37, Quai Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland. World's Young Women's Christian Association-Miss Marion V. Royce, 37, Quai Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland. NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES Austria: Austrian Democratic Women.-Mme. Reinprecht, 8 rue Michel Chauvet. Geneva, Switzerland. Czechoslovakia: Société de Mme. F. F. Plaminkova.-Mme. J. Hrdinova, Ul. Elisky Krasnohorske 14, Praha Czechoslovakia: Mme. Marie Wolfova, Mala Vinarska 4, Praha 7, Czechoslovakia; Dr. Elmira Roosova, Praha-Sporilov-1175, Czechoslovakia. France: Femmes Unies-Mme. Adrien Tixier, 38 rue de Courcelles, Paris 8, France. Italy: Federazione Italiana Done Decorati.-Dott. A. Pertici ved. Bacci: Sra. A. Arcaugati ved. Errari. Palestine: Palestine Federation of W.I.Z.O.-Mrs. Pessia Taiber, 8 Beth Hashoova Lane, Tel-Aviv, Palestine. Poland: Mme. Szelagowska, ul Kosciuszki 29, Wroctaw, Poland. Switzerland: Lyceum Clubs.-Mme. l'Orsa-Zschokke, Kilchberg, Zurich, Switzerland. Swiss Women Teachers Union. Mlle. H. Stucki and Mme. Schulthess-Haegele, Berne. Swiss Association of University Women-Mlle. M. Boehlen, Berne. Social Democratic Women's Group of Switzerland. - Mme. Kissel-Brutschy, Rheinfelden. National Alliance of Swiss Women's Societies. -Mme. Dr. Debrit-Vogel, Berne. Berne Women's Union.- Mlle. R. Neuenschwander, Berne. Ukrainian Alliance of Women-Mme. Milena Rudnycka, Foyer de la Femme, rue de la Vallée 1, Geneva, Switzerland. 83 Telephone: WEMBLEY 4261 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Equal Rights - Equal Responsibilities (International Alliance of Women for Suffrage and Equal Citizenship) Hon. President and Founder: CARRIE CHAPMAN CATT Hon. Vice-President: ADELE SCHREIBER BOARD: President: MARGERY I. CORBETT ASHBY, Wickens, Birch Grove, Haywards Heath, Sussex First Vice-President: GERMAINE MALATERRE SELLIER (France) Second Vice-President: GUNWATI MAHARAJ SINGH (India) Third Vice-President: HANNA RYDH (Sweden) Treasurer: NINA SPILLER (Great Britain) Corresponding Secretary: MARGOT PETERSEN (Denmark) Members: MILENA ATANATSKOVITCH (Yugoslavia), MARGARETE BONNEVIE (Norway), MARGUERITE BOYER (France), HODA CHARAOUI (Egypt), TATIANA FEODOROVA (U.S.S.R.), MARIE GINSBERG (Poland), DIMITRANA IVANOVA (Bulgaria), DOROTHY KENYON (U.S.A.), ANDREE LEHMANN (France), BESSIE RISCHBIETH (Australia), HELOISE ROCHA (Brazil), EDEL SAUNTE (Denmark), CAROLINE SLADE (U.S.A.) Read INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS. Monthly: Price 7s. p.a. Headquarters: 45, KINGSWAY, WEMBLEY, MIDDLESEX, ENGLAND Headquarters Secretary: KATHERINE BOMPAS CALL TO THE FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN, INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND, AUGUST 10th to 17th, 1946 The International Alliance of Women after seven years of separation, years of anguish, horror and destruction, invites its member societies and its individual members and friends to its Fourteenth International Congress, to be held at Interlaken from August 10th to 17th, 1946. At its Copenhagen Congress in 1939 on the eve of the war, the Alliance recognised the immediate danger of the totalitarian regimes and felt it impossible, at a moment when human rights were being trampled under foot, to consider solely the rights of women. A Declaration was adopted culminating in the recognition that "The woman's battle is that of all mankind." Three of the delegates paid with their lives for their devotion to that idea: Rosa Manus of Holland; Frantiska Plaminkova of Czechoslovakia; Halina Siemienska of Poland. They and the many unknown others who shared their fate are a shining example. Their martyrdom lays upon all who were spared an obligation to take up the torch and keep it aflame. Since the victory of the democracies, many women and women's organisations are now free to express this idea, and co-operation among all democratic and liberty-loving women urgently needs to be co-ordinated. Do not let us lose the solidarity created by resistance movements and common perils. Let us use this wealth of shared experience to serve constructive and not destructive ends. Since the foundation of the Alliance in 1904, much has been won in regard to those equal political and civil rights for men and women, the achievement of which is its main object. Every Congress has reported fresh victories and now we shall rejoice in the suffrage given to women in France, Italy, Japan, and Jugoslavia, or enlarged as in Bulgaria. To-day there are more women in the Parliaments of the world than ever before. Above all, we welcome the declaration in the Charter of the United Nations of faith in the equal rights of men and women and repeated expressions of the view that there should be no discriminations based on sex any more than on race or creed. But the real influence of women on world affairs is yet imperfectly exercised. Economic equality and freedom must be won; women must have a real share in government, both in policy-making and in administration; they must have full opportunity to play their part in the gigantic task of moral and material reconstruction, and in laying the foundations of effective world co-operation and lasting peace. Women must be at the side of men in fighting for those human rights of liberty of speech, freedom of the Press and of conscience and religion, without barriers of race, class or sex, as the fundamental basis of a sane and happy world. Women need, too, to take up that old cry, "Woman's place is the Home," and see that the lip service paid to the value of the work of the housewife is translated into practical recognition of her need for economic independence and security; that her burden is lightened by intelligent housing and social services, and that not all the sacrifice of health, freedom and leisure falls upon the mother, who bears the children, but is shared with the father. We must also ensure that the home does not represent enforced seclusion for women, but that the married woman and mother shall have every facility for earning her living and making her direct contribution to economic production by undertaking paid work in conditions which will not lay a double burden upon her. Never has it been more vital for women to discuss with their fellow women the burning questions of our time, on the solution of which the fate of all humanity depends. Difficulties of travel must prevent our Congress from being a Mass Demonstration, but we ask you to do your utmost to send delegates so that as many as possible of our affiliated societies shall be represented. We appeal also to our individual members to offer themselves as delegates of their national organisations; or where these may not yet be fully organised, to come in a personal capacity to take back a new inspiration to their national movement. CONGRESS INFORMATION The Congress fee for delegates, individual members or visitors has been fixed at 10/-, payable at the Congress Secretariat in Interlaken. Every affiliated society is entitled to 12 Delegates and 12 Alternates where it is the only society affiliated in a country; where more than one society is affiliated, this number should be divided between them by arrangement. Nominations of Delegates or personal applications from individual members or visitors should be sent in on the attached form as soon as possible (preferably by air mail) to the Secretary of the Alliance, 45, Kingsway, Wembley, Middlesex, England. A DUPLICATE COPY SHOULD BE TAKEN and handed to the Delegates nominated, or retained by the individual, to serve as a CREDENTIAL, which must be presented at the Congress Secretariat when applying for the Congress Card. ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES Droits égaux - Responsabilités égales (Alliance Internationale des Femmes pour le Suffrage et I'Action civique et politique des Femmes) Présidente d'Honneur et Fondatrice: CARRIE CHAPMAN CATT Vice-Présidente d'Honneur: ADELE SCHREIBER Comité Exécutif: Présidente: MARGERY I. CORBETT ASHBY 1ére Vice-Présidente: GERMAINE MALATERRE SELLIER (France) 2iéme Vice-Présidente: GUNWATI MAHARAJ SINGH (Indes) 3iéme Vice Présidente: HANNA RYDH (Suéde) Trésoriére: NINA SPILLER (Gde. Bretagne) Secrétaire honoraire: MARGOT PETERSEN (Danemark) Membres: MILENA ATANATSKOVITCH (Yougoslavie), MARGARETE BONNEVIE (Norvége), MARGUERITE BOYER (France), HODA CHARAOUI (Egypte), TATIANA FEODOROVA (U.R.S.S), MARIE GINSBERG (Pologne), DIMITRANA IVANOVA (Bulgarie), DOROTHY KENYON (Etats-Unis), ANDREE LEHMANN (France), BESSIE RISCHBIETH (Australie), HELOISE ROCHA (Brésil), EDEL SAUNTE (Danemark), CAROLINE SLADE (Etats-Unis) Organe mensuel: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS 45, KINGSWAY, WEMBLEY, MIDDLESEX, ANGLETERRE Secrétaire générale: KATHERINE BOMPAS INVITATION AU QUARTORZIEME CONGRES DE L'ALLIANCE INTERNATIONALE DES FEMMES, INTERLAKEN, SUISSE, du 10 au 17 AOUT, 1946 L'Alliance Internationale des Femmes, aprés sept ans d'isolement, sept ans remplis d'angoisse, d'horreur et de destruction, invite ses sociétés affiliées et ses membres individuels, ainsi que ses amies à venir au quartorziéme Congrés International qui se teindra à Interlaken du 10 au 17 Août 1946. Au Congrés de Copenhague en 1939, à la veille de la guerre, l'Alliance comprenant pleinment le danger des régimes totalitaires, sentit, l'impossibilité de s'occuper exclusivement des droits des femmes, alors que les droits humains étaient profanés de toute part. Une déclaration fut adoptée, reconnaissant le principe fondamental suivant: "En combattant pour les droits des femmes, nous luttons pour l'humanité entiére." Trois déléguées à ce Congrés ont payé de leur vie leur dévotion à cette idée: Rosa Manus de Hollande, Frantiska Plaminkova de Tchécoslovaquie, Halina Siemienska de Pologne. Elles sont, avec beaucoup d'autres femmes héroiques qui ont partagé leur sort, un exemple resplendissant qui nous impose l'obligation de garder brûlante la flamme qui les inspirait. Depuis la victoire des démocraties, les organisations féministes ont recouvré la possibilité d'exprimer librement leurs pensées et il est grand besoin de coordonner ces idées parmi les femmes d'évouées à la démocratie et à la liberté. Ne perdons pas le sens de solidarité créé par les mouvements de résistance et de péril commun. Servons nous de cette richesse d’expérience pour des fins constructives. Depuis la fondation de l'Alliance en 1904 les femmes ont acquis bien des droits civils et politiques. A chaque Congrès il a été rapporté des victoires nouvelles, et nous nous rejouissons de l’affranchissement des femmes en France, Italie, Japon et Yougoslavie, ou de l'extension du suffrage comme en Bulgarie. Les parlements du monde voient élire un nombre de femmes toujours grandissant. Le plus grand point acquis nous semble être la déclaration introduite dans la Charte des Nations Unies de ‘‘foi dans l'égalité des droits des hommes et des femmes,” et l'expression reproduite dans plusieurs articles de la Charte ‘‘qu’il n’y doit y avoir aucune distinction de race, de sexe ou de religion.” Et pourtant l'influence des femmes dans les affaires mondiales s'exerce encore bien imparfaitement. L'égalité et la liberté économique sont encore loin d'être achevées; les femmes doivent prendre une part plus grande à la conduite des gouvernements, jouer leur rôle dans la tâche gigantesque de reconstruction matérielle et morale qui nous fait face, et aider à poser les fondations d'une coopération mondiale effective en faveur d'une paix durable. Les femmes doivent, à côté des hommes combattre pour ces droits humains de liberté de pensée et de parole, de conscience et de religion, et pour la liberté de la presse, ainsi que l'abolition des distinctions de race, classe ou sexe, formant ainsi une base solide à un nouveau monde plus sain et plus heureux. Les femmes ont aussi besoin de reprendre sous une autre forme le vieux cri ‘‘la place des femmes est au foyer,” et faire traduire en réalité les compliments payés si facilement en paroles au services rendus par la ménagère, en reconnaissant ses droits à une indépendance économique et à une sécurité financière: en soulageant son fardeau par des réformes et des services sociaux éclairés afin que tous les sacrifices de santé, de liberté, de loisirs ne tombent pas seulement sur la mère, qui met au monde les enfants, mais soient aussi partagés par le père. Il est nécessaire d’insister pour que le foyer ne représente pas une séclusion pour les femmes mariées, qu'elles aient toutes facilités pour entreprendre du travail professionnel ou industriel rémunéré, et contribuer ainsi à la vie économique de leur pays, sans souffrir pour cela du fardeau souvent imposé à la femme qui désire un foyer et une carrière. Il n'a jamais été aussi important que maintenant de discuter avec des femmes de tous pays les questions brûlantes de notre époque, questions dont la solution aura un effet décisif sur le sort de l'humanité. Les difficultés de voyage forceront notre Congrès sans doute à être plus restreint que nous ne l’aurions souhaité, mais nous vous prions d'envoyer au moins quelques déléguées, pour que toutes nos sociétés affiliées soient représentées. Nous faisons appel aux membres individuelles pour qu’elles s'offrent de venir comme déléguées nationales, ou à titre individuel afin de rapporter dans leurs pays une inspirations renouvelée. INFORMATIONS La cotisation au Congrès pour déléguées, membres individuels ou visiteurs a été fixée à dix shillings, à payer au Secrétariat du Congrès à Interlaken. Chaque société affiliée a le droit de nommer 12 déléguées et 12 suppléantes s’il n’y a qu’une seule société affiliée dans un pays; s'il y a plusieurs sociétés affiliées, le nombre des déléguées doit être réparti également entre elles par arrangement amical. Nominations des déléguées, ou applications des membres individuels ou des visiteurs, doivent être faites sur la formule ci-joint qui doit être envoyée aussitôt que possible (préférablement par avion) à la Secrétaire de l'Alliance, 45 Kingsway, Wembley, Middlesex, Angleterre. PRIERE DE PRENDRE UNE COPIE de chaque formule remplie à passer à la déléguée y nommée pour SERVIR COMME POUVOIR, à présenter au Secrétariat au moment de prendre la carte du Congrès. I. A. of W. 1946 19[?]5 FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN, INTERLAKEN, AUGUST, 1946. TEXT OF THE RESOLUTIONS AS ADOPTED. (1) PEACE The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, EXPRESSING its profound sorrow and sympathy with the untold sufferings caused by the war to millions all over the world, and its horror and indignation at the destruction of material and spiritual values in every field of human endeavor, REALISING that international organisation is essential in order to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophe which might engulf mankind; CONVINCED, however, that stable peace can only be ensured if such an organisation is founded upon, and its political, social and economic activities governed by principles of justice. AND that international justice implies recognition, not only in theory but in practice, of the sovereign equality of all nations, large and small, of equal rights for men and women, and of fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion, NOTES with SATISFACTION that the Charter of the United Nations is based upon such principles of justice and pledged to the purpose of their realisation, EXPRESSES THE HOPE that inasmuch as the Charter falls short of a complete realisation of its lofty purpose, such defects may be duly and speedily remedied, EMPHASISES that only where women posses equal citizenship can they exercise to the full their influence for international cooperation and peace, RECALLS the unstinted support by the Alliance of the League of Nations which it is now ready to give to the United Nations, URGES that full use be made of Articles 57, 63 and 71 of the Charter in order to secure the best possible cooperation between international organisations, both government and otherwise, and the specialised organs of the United Nations, PROTESTS STRONGLY against the use of atomic energy as a weapon of war, URGES that the sources, scientific development, manufacture and use of atomic energy for all purposes be under the control of the United Nations, and CALLS UPON ITS MEMBERS to unite in a common effort so that full support may be given to the new organisation and the principles upon which it is based, and thereby ensure through national and international cooperation that the professed ideals of a community of nations, the unity of mankind and the universal brotherhood of man, may be translated into a living reality. ___________________________________ (2) DEMOCRACY The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, RECALLS the Declaration of Principles adopted in 1939 at its Congress in Copenhagen, REAFFIRMS, after years of war in defence of democracy and freedom, its conviction that "the sacredness of human personality has always been the keystone of the women's movement - that the woman's battle is that of all mankind, that there can be no freedom for women where freedom is no longer a recognised right of every individual." -2- REAFFIRMS THEREFORE its enthusiastic support of democracy which the experience of many lands shows has given a fuller spiritual and mental life and a higher and more equal standard of living to all members of the community than any other system of government. BY A DEMOCRACY THE ALLIANCE MEANS A SYSTEM in which the supreme control of government, carried on through Parliament, Executive and Judiciary, rests in the last analysis with the people, and (a) In which no individual or institution is above the law, where impartial justice protects the individual against arbitrary action by any public or private institution and against injustice by any other individual ; (b) Which arrives at its conclusions by free discussion, without an artificial unity based on suppression of opinion ; (c) which gives equal rights to all citizens whatever their differences of religious or political opinion or their racial origin, and protects individuals and groups in their fundamental human rights; (d) Where there is a free press, freedom of speech and association, universal andfree education, free choice of a career and the use of leisure and opportunity for employment and social security. THIS CONGRESS THEREFORE PLACES ON RECORD ITS SUPPORT OF SUCH A SYSTEM OF DEMOCRACY, and its belief that whilst no existing democracy is perfect, it can and will be perfected by the steady growth of civil responsibility which it fosters among men and women. _______________ (3) POLITICAL RIGHTS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, NOTES WITH SATISFACTION THAT equal suffrage and eligibility have been granted in nearly every country ; CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS which have not yet taken this essential step, and especially those who have ratified the Charter of the United Nations based upon equal rights for men and women, or who intend to apply for membership of the United Nations, to pass without delay the legislation necessary to give equal political rights to their women; AND FURTHER CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS "To promote the appointment of women upon equal terms with men to all posts in the governing and administrative organs of their countries, including all posts in the judiciary and diplomatic services, as well as to all posts dealing with the making and maintenance of peace, and in general the pursuit of the purposes of the United Nations, in order that such posts shall be filled by competent women in numbers adequate to ensure that the government truly reflects the viewpoint of the whole body of citizens. ________________________ (4) ECONOMIC RIGHTS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSES ITS BELIEF that the continued economic dependence of women and the lack of wide opportunity for choosing, training for and obtaining employment in many directions are one of the causes of their restricted influence in national and international affairs, and tend to prevent their full development and sense of social responsibility; FORTIFIED in its opinion by the magnificent evidence of women's aptitude and skill in every sphere of activity during the war, RE-STATES AS FOLLOWS those demands which it has consistently included in its active programme: 1. That wages be based on the value of the work in terms of skill and technical qualification, in all grades applying equally to men and women whether they work side by side or whether by custom or convenience the work is more generally performed by men or women separately. -3- 2. That opportunities for training and qualifying for every kind of work be equally available to girls and boys, men and women, with equal conditions of entry and promotion; that women shall have equal rights with men of admission on the same conditions to all trade unions and professional organisations, with equal protection against exploitation, industrial accident or disease, and the same provisions for welfare and government inspection; that under any scheme of social insurance, including pensions, men and women shall pay equal contributions and receive equal benefits, with due consideration for the factors of health and motherhood. 3. That neither sex or marriage shall in any way restrict a woman's right to undertake salaried work, but on the contrary, all possible measures be taken to enable the married woman and mother, if she so desires, to make this direct economic contribution to the community in conditions best suited to her circumstances. 4. In order to ensure that salaries and conditions of work may be equal between the sexes, that portion of salaries or wages considered as covering the children, shall through an insurance fund be subtracted from the salaries of those without children and distributed to those, men or women, who have children under a certain age. THE CONGRESS THEREFORE CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS to institute these conditions of equality in all their services and exercise their influence in every possible way where private employment is concerned, recognising that the under-payment of women lends to a lowering of the whole standard of the workers and to an under-valuation of women as persons and citizens with wide and undesirable social consequences. (5) HOUSEWIFE AND WORKER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, CONSIDERING that the war has accelerated the tendency in industrial development to employ married women outside their houses, and since this has a bearing upon the whole economic status of married women, it is urgent that the problems involved be set so as to permit the married woman who chooses to combine the functions of house-maker, wage-earner and member of society without laying upon her an intolerable burden, DECLARES that the community which needs the services of the married woman and mother in all these capacities, should adopt the following measures to permit her to render them in reasonable conditions: (a) The provision of dwellings with carefully planned arrangements to lighten domestic work; (b) Adequate grants for the expenses of childbirth and proper provision of maternity services and convalescent houses; (c) Varied and widespread facilities for child care (day nurseries, nursery schools, etc.); (d) The sharing of responsibility for the training and care of the children between both parents, so that while the special function of the mother is recognised, she shall be free to take part in the social and civic life of the community and, if she so desires, in employment outside the home. (e) The provision of opportunities for part-time work at the proper standard rate of wages, available for workers of both sexes. - 4 - (6) THE REMOVAL OF THE LEGAL INCAPACITY OF THE MARRIED WOMAN AND MOTHER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, CONSIDERING that marriage is an institution to assure the existence and wellbeing of the family under the best possible conditions: that therefore it is wrong to penalise those who wish to enter the state of marriage and that legislation, which in most countries has established civil rights equal to those of men for all unmarried women, still imposes a measure of civil incapacity upon the wife and married mother; That this system of law is contrary to equity, justice and reason, and is often prejudicial to the interests of the family: DEMANDS THEREFORE that the married woman shall preserve the property and the full exercise of all rights she enjoyed before marriage, especially the right to: Bear her own name Retain her independent nationality Share in the choice of the common domicile, or choose her own Domicile where circumstances require it; Exercise an activity or profession she may choose; Exercise all rights over the property she possessed before marriage or has acquired in the course of marriage; Have the same rights as her husband over property held in common; Enter into any contract with her husband authorised by the law as between unmarried persons; Exercise equal rights with her husband over the children born of their marriage. (7) THE ECONOMIC POSITION OF THE HOUSEWIFE The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, DEMANDS that in virtue of her position as housewife, the married woman shall have a share in the family income andthe right to her own insurance benefits and pension. (8) TRAFFIC IN WOMEN AND AN EQUAL MORAL STANDARD. The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, REAFFIRMS STRONGLY the necessity for a high moral standard equal between the sexes. CONSIDERING: 1. That prostitution is an anti-social act which concerns the individual conscience and should not be considered as a legal offense. 2. That the commercial exploitation of the prostitution of other constitutes the offence indicated in the Fifth Convention against Traffic Women drafted by the League of Nations in 1937. 3. That the war and post-war conditions have much increased such exploitation. 4. That it is urgent to take international measures to deal with this problem: DEMANDS: a. That the United Nations take steps to secure the signatures and the ratification of the States Members to the Fifth Convention against Traffic in Women as prepared by the League of Nations in 1937. -5- b. That a clause be inserted in the Peace Treaties by which all signatories to these Treaties shall consider themselves bound by the previous Conventions against Traffic in Women on 1904, 1910, 1924 and 1933, and also that the measures proposed in the draft Convention against the exploitation of the prostitution of others of 1937 be inserted in the Treaties. c. That since prostitution is not considered as a legal offence, all forms of the system of regulation should be abolished. d. That to prevent the spread of venereal diseases, adequate measures be taken in the form of free and secret treatment, available for the whole population. e. That laws to safeguard public order shall be applicable equally to both men and women. AND RECOMMENDS to its affiliated societies that they should work in their own countries to ensure the adoption of modern methods of social welfare, education and propaganda. (9) VITAL QUESTIONS OF THE DAY a) The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946 RECOGNISING that women though now largely enfranchised have as yet achieved a small proportion of representation in the Parliaments of the world and in the higher posts of administration and government, and have therefore inadequate means of voicing their opinion officially on many of the major problems of the day. (a) Production and consumption, especially as regards nutrition: [*Displaced Persons*] (b) Migration, to provide an equilibrium in the supply and demand for labour, and ensure the moral material wellbeing of emigrants so that they may take a useful part in the life of their new country. (c) Transport, to ensure an equitable distribution of the necessities of life and the raw materials of manufacture: (d) Housing AND FURTHER that all women as citizens should take through joining appropriate organisations to study and understand these world problems so as to contribute to an informed public opinion which is essential to their proper solution. The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946 URGES ALL NATIONS to find a radical and generous solution to the problem of refugees and stateless and displaced persons, of whom millions are to-day without a home, without work and without hope, and whose tragic state shows no improvement. The moral and physical sufferings they are enduring call for the planning of large scale schemes of emigration by the Governments. THIS CONGRESS URGENTLY DEMANDS all Governments to undertake the settlement of refugees in suitable regions; to provide for their transport thither with their families; to help them to take their place in their new country and by degrees to give them full citizen rights. THE CONGRESS in the spirit of human solidarity appeals to women to take an active part in the solution of these problems. -6- (10) EMIGRATION The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, CONSIDERING that the problem of emigration is one which at this moment calls for the sympathy of the whole world, and that it must be dealt with on the basis of a solution which must be applied with great care to ensure that justice is done to all: AND DESIRING to find a solution: 1) DEMANDS that those countries with wide and rich territories not yet fully exploited or populated, should extend a welcome to the largest possible number of refugees, 2) NOTES WITH SATISFACTION that some of the countries of South America (Chile, Venezuela) are opening their doors to emigrants from all countries who wish to settle there and are offering facilities for such settlement. 3) HOPES that no country will attempt to force immigration upon any other country against the will of its inhabitants. (11) JEWISH REFUGEES IN CONCENTRATION CAMPS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSES ITS HORROR at the atrocities perpetrated against the Jewish people by the Hitler regime, resulting in the slaughter of six million of its peaceful members, DRAWS ATTENTION TO THE FACT that hundreds of thousands of innocent Jewish refugees are still detained today in the concentration camps to which they were sent, one and a half years after the end of the war, for no other crime than that they have survived the atrocities inflicted on them, STATES that this is in contradiction to the elementary human rights laid down in the Charter of the United Nations, and DEMANDS that the United Nations take steps to secure their immediate liberation. INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN MINUTES of the Meeting of the International Committee held in Interlaken August 10th, 1946 Present: Mrs. Corbett Ashby, in the Chair Members of the Board: Mrs. Bonnovic, Mme. Boyor, Mme. Charaoui, Miss. Ginsberg, Miss Konyon, Mrs. Lohmann, Dr. Rydh, Mrs. Spiller and Mrs. Schreiber Presidents of Proxies: Australia .. Mrs. Mrs. Innes Denmark .. Dr. Hanson Egypt .. Mme. Nabaraoui France .. Mme. Brunschvieg, Mme. Logrand Falso Gt. Britain .. Miss Barry, Miss Reeves, Lady Pares Holland .. Dr. Zeelonborg India .. Miss Parvathydevi Italy .. Mme. Scolb New Zealand .. Mrs. [Armitage Norway.. Mrs. Dakky Kiaor Palestine .. Dr. Brachyahu Sweden.. Mrs. Björlingson, Mrs. Hagon Switzerland .. Mrs. Louch U.S.A.. Miss Lord Strauss MINUTES. The Minutes of the Meeting held in Geneva, October 1945 were confirmed and signed. BUSINESS ARISING. Joint International Women' Conference and Delegation the Peace Conference. Reported that those proposals were made to the Liaison Committee of Women's International Organisations but had not been taken up. In regard to the Peace Conference, it was reported that there were no women delegates, and only one or two women in other capacities. Mrs. Spiller said that we should send a delegation to the Conference to protest and demand the inclusion of women. A sub-committee was named to consider this and eventually a telegram of protest was sent to the Peace Conference and a position was drawn up and signed by a large number of delegates to be presented to the President of the Peace Conference with the request that he receive a delegation. All delegations were asked to press their own Governments to appoint women delegates. Co-operation with the United Nations. Reported action taken with the women delegates to the First Assembly in cooperation with the Liaison Committee, and also request that the Alliance be recognizes as a co-operating organization. A formal reply has been received giving the conditions laid down for such recognition by the Economic and Social Council. This was welcomed and one or two members were asked to study the document to see what further action should be take. (Miss Kenyon, Miss Ginsberg and Miss Barry.) With regard to the Status of Women sub-commissions which it is now proposed to raise to the position of a full Commission, recalled the action taken by the last meeting of the International Committee at Geneva to inform the Economic and Social Council that the Alliance felt that this question should be dealt with by the Committee on Human Rights. Also reported a letter from the Open Door International pointing out the danger that any separate commission for women might load to the reinforcement of the idea that women's rights are different from human rights. This would be emphasized if the present sub-commission of the Human Rights Committee were formed into a [separate???] full Commission. After considerable discussion it was agreed to not press for a separate commission but to approach the Economic and Social Council to name more women members of the Human Rights Committee, pointing out that since the United Nations is based on a policy of equal rights for men and women, there cannot be any difference between human rights and women's rights. -2- Agreed further to ask all societies to get their Governments to appoint more women delegates to the Assembly, and to demand their support for carrying out as soon as possible recommendations for securing equality under the law. Congress. a) Speakers. Speakers were named for different points of the program. b) Appointment of Committees: 1) Credentials: Mrs. Lohmann, Mrs. Innes 2. Resolutions: Judge Kenyon, Mrs. Spiller; 3) Elections: Mrs. Joannides, Mrs. Kinaer Miss Langholm, Lady Paros, Mrs. Vavasour. 4) Translations: Mrs. Leuch, Miss Spender. In regard to Resolutions and amendments, agreed that those must be handed in at least 24 hours before they are to be moved. Resignation of President. Mrs. Corbett Ashby announced that she was resigning the presidency and suggested that Dr. Hanna Rydh of Sweden might be nominated as her successor. Universal regret was expressed at Mrs. Ashby's decision and tributes were paid by all to her long and immensely valuable service to the Alliance for twenty-three years. Suggestions were discussed as to recommendations to be made to the now Board for the appointment of honorary officers, and it was decided to collect only 19 instead of the full 21 members for the Board so as to permit the co-option of members from countries not at present represented. *See note below Enlarged Meeting Held on August 11th. Present as above, with additional representatives from each country, with Mrs. Corbett Ashby in the Chair. After making nomination of speakers for the three Swiss Public Meetings in Interlaken, Thun, and Berne, each delegation presented a brief report on its national work followed by general and informal discussion. For Australia: Mrs. Innes ; Egypt, Mme. Nabaraouy; France: Mme. Brunschvicg, and Mme. Lohmann; Great Britain: Miss Barry; Greece; Mme. Zannas; India: Miss Parvathydovi; Italy: Mrs. Sacconi; Netherlands; Dr. Tendeloo; New Zealand; Mrs. Armitage; Norway: Mrs. Dakky Kiaer; Palestine: Dr. A. Brachyahu; Sweden: Mrs. Björlingson, Mrs. Langonheim; Switzerland: Mme. Vischor Alioth; U.S.A.: Miss Strauss. * Mrs. Ashby reported a telegram from the Union Feministe de Syrie applying for affiliation, supported by Mrs. Charaoui. She expressed the hope that this application be accepted, together with the re-affiliation of the Union Feministe Arabe de Palestine, affiliated at the Istanbul Congress though its membership had lapsed. Those application were unanimously accepted. Palestine [Boo?] INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN MINUTES of the Meeting of the Board hold on August 17th, 1946, at Interlaken. Present: Dr. Hanna Rydh, in the Chair Mrs. Corbott Ashby; Miss Barry, Mrs. Armitage, Mrs Bonnovio, Mme Boyor, Mme Charaoui, Mrs. Everts-Gorrdard; Miss Ginsborg; Mme Loannides; Miss Dorothy Kenyon; Mme Lohmann; Miss Paravthydevi as proxy for Mrs. Mohta; Mme Scelba; Mrs. Spiller; Miss Lord Strauss, Mme Vischer Alioth, and Mrs. Bompas, Secretary and Mrs. Schreiber, Hon. Vice-President Dr. Rydh welcomed the members and expressed her hope for the happiest co-operation. Nomination of Officers Vice Presidents: Agreed that these be not be appointed as First, Second, etc. Vice Presidents, but listed simply in alphabetical order. Mme Malaterre-Sellier, proposed by Mme Charaoui; Judhe Kenyen, proposed by Mme Joannides; Mlle Ginsberg, proposed by Mme Lohmann; Mme Charaoui, proposed by Miss Barry, and Mrs. Hehta prosed by Miss Parathydovi were appointed. Treasurer. It was suggested it would help the President to have one of the Officers to consult in her own country, and it was proposed to invite Mrs. Lundgren to serve as Treasurer and agreed. Mrs. Spiller expressed her willingness to continue to act pro tem. Corresponding Secretary. Mme Vischer Alioth was proposed by several members and was appointed. Mme Vischer said that she was willing to do all she could but she could not undertake any work of liaison with the international Labour Office of the United Nations. If Miss Ginburg is in Europe and the I.L.O. settled at Geneva, she promised to undertake the work of liaison. As regards U.N., it must be arranged for a liaison officer to work in the U.S.A., and this matter will be discussed with the affiliated society. International Women's News. It was agreed that this must be edited and printed in the country whose language was mainly employed. Miss Hamilton Smith reported that the sub-committee appointed by the Congress had met for informal discussion. There was a difference of opinion as to whether the paper should be more technical, in the sense of trying to give mostly information rather than articles or comments. It had been suggested that some articles in French should be published, or a résumé of a few lines in French at the end of each article in English, or a general French summary of the contents. Both Mme Boyer and Mme Lohmann emphasised the need for the use of French as without it was not possible to appeal for French subscriptions. Dr. Rydh said that above all real news of the woman's movement was wanted. She suggested that the paper should be sent to the Press Service of every Government, and Mrs. Ashby thought that each society should undertake this from its block subscription. Mrs. Bonnevie supported the proposal for block subscriptions from the societies and said that in Norway they were going to take out a subscription for each of their local branches. Finance Mrs. Spiller reported that promises amounted to approximately £274 for the first year, and about £120 for the two succeeding years. The public meeting at Thun had given a donation of £10 to the Alliance from its collection. The approximate regular income has shrunken to only about £150 a year but this should begin to rise again now that it is more possible to send money from other countries. Mme Charaoui proposed to raise the minimum affiliation fee from £2 to £5. This fee being fixed by the constitution the amount cannot be changed until the next Congress, but it was agreed that an appeal for the higher scale be made as a voluntary gesture by the societies. -2- Mrs. Ashby suggested that each member of each national society should be asked to pay a small international supplement to the ordinary fee, which would have the double purpose of raising funds for the Alliance and making the members more conscious of their membership of an international organization. Miss Ginsburg said that the President of the International Federation of Business & professional Women had put the suggested forward that members be asked to subscribe just the price of a single visit a year to the cinema. It was agreed to make an appeal with these suggestions to the Presidents. Dr. Rydh pointed out that if we take the ordinary income as £150 and the average of the pledges at £170 a year that makes only £320 a year. In addition the Treasurer reported that the Alliance has still some £600 of Mrs. Catt's gift in the U.S.A., and the legacy from Mlle Gourd of about £500. Miss Barry proposed that the latter item be used to help the Alliance to carry on, and Mme Vischor said that she felt that this would be in accordance with Mllo Gourd's wishes. She added that at this moment when there was a new President, a new Hon. Secretary and many changes, it would be difficult to dispense with the present Secretary who formed the connecting link. Mrs. Bompas pointed out that it might be difficult for her to continue to provide office room in her room as her family plans were uncertain but she was most willing to continue as at present till the spring, and/it being in/case essential for her to complete the after-Congress work. The would give time to see how matters would be best planned, what Dr. Rydh found she would need in the way of office work in Stockholm, whole the existing balance and possibly the use of part of the pledges should allow this to be dome financially. This was agreed. Action on Congress Resolutions Agreed to send a copy of all the Resolutions to the Liaison Committee. 1. Peace. To be sent to the Secretary of the United Nations, to the Chairman of its Committee on Atomic Energy, and the xxx Committee of Atomic Scientists in Washington. 2. Democracy. Ask each society to send this to its delegation to the Peace Conference. 3. Political Rights. To be sent to all Governments, calling attention to par.1, where women are disenfranchised, congratulating those which have recently enfranchised women, and emphasising the last paragraph for all. 4. Economic Rights. To be sent to Governments emphasising the last paragraph; also to the I.L.O. and the United Nations Status of Women Committee. 5. Housewife and Worker. To be sent to the I.L.O. and U.N.Status of Women Committee. 6. Legal Incapacity. To be sent to UN.Status Committee and a suitable international law association. 7. Housewife. For action by the societies. 8. Traffic in Women. To be sent to the U.N., the Peace Conference and the International Abolitionist Federation which is hoping to send a deputation to the Peace Conference, the French members being asked to arrange for suitable representatives of the Alliance to join this. 9. Vital Questions: for action by the societies. 10. Displaced Persons. and 11. Migration. to be sent to Governments and to Inter-Governmental Committee of Refugees. 12. Jewish Refugees in Camps. To be sent to Government of France, Great Britain, U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. Date of next meeting. After discussion as to naming a small working committee, agreed to have a Board meeting not later than April next. Meantime any Board members visiting Sweden or adjacent countries are asked to notify the President. After the President has recalled that the Board should be considering amendments required to the constitution, the meeting adjourned. INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN MINUTES of the Meeting of the Board held at Interlaken, August 10th 1946 Present: Mrs. Corbett Ashby, in the Chair Mrs. Bonnevie, Mme Boyer, Mme Charaoui, Miss Ginsberg, Miss Kenyon, Mme Lehmann, Dr. Rydh, Mrs. Spiller, Mrs. Schreiber, Mrs. Bompas, Headquarters Secretary APOLOGIES were reported from Mme Malaterre, Miss Petersen, Mrs. Rischbieth, Mme Rocha and Mrs. Slade. Agreed to send a message of good wishes to Mme Malaterre. The President reported the resignation of Mme Fyodorova of the U.S.S.R. MINUTES. The Minutes of the meeting held in London in March 1946 with one slight correction were confirmed and signed. CONGRESS a) Speakers. The programme was gone through and suggestions made for speakers to be completed by the International Committee. In regard to the sessions on Aug. 12 on the future of the Alliance, it was suggested that the work of the United Nations Status of Women Committee should form the main basis for international feminist work. Judge Kenyon explained how the Committee had come into being. Its first programme was excellent but perhaps rather too wide. Now a new Committee will be appointed perhaps in March, enlarged by 15 members if the Assembly so decides. The new programme may be somewhat different. Speakers were also named for the discussion on Travelling Commissions and Regional Conference. In regard to Standing Committees, Mme Boyer felt that economic questions form a focal point and need expert consideration. Dr. Rydh suggested that small committees to study one point at a time and able to meet would be useful. After discussion it was agreed that each country should be represented on each committee if it desires. Small Committees might be formed to carry out the actual work, which should be widely based on the programme of the United Nations Status Committee. APPLICATIONS FOR AFFILIATION. a) Great Britain. The former National Council for Equal Citizenship had amalgamted with the National Women Citizens Association under that name with a feminist programme. It wished to continue its affiliation and this was unnanimously accepted. Reported that the Women for Westminster Movement had joined as an Adhering Society under Art. III. 1. (d) of the Alliance Constitution. Palestine. The Palestine Branch of the Women's International Zionist Organisation had applied for affiliation to which the existing Palestine Society raised no objection. After considering its objects, it was unanimously agreed that this society does not meet the terms of the Alliancnce Constitution which lays down that any member society must have as its main object woman suffrage and/or the other objects of the Alliance. By its title and objects it was clear that the main object of this society is Zionism. Poland. Mrs. Ashby reported that the former affiliated society had completely disappeared. She had been in touch with the Social and Civil League of Women which had agreed to apply for membership and send a delegation. Unfortunately the new International Democratic Federation of Women had decided to recommend that no society affiliated to it should also affiliate to the Alliance or send delegates to its Congress, and this probably had prevented the society from taking any further action. The President of the former Ukrainian Society in Poland, Mme Rudnycka, desired to continue the affiliation although her society was only able to work among its members now in Germany, Austria etc. It was agreed that since the society could have no real national field of work, it could no longer be eligible for membership. The hope was expressed -2- that Mme Rudnycka would keep in touch by personal membership. Syria (Lebanon) Reported that the Union feministe Lebanaise Arabe wished to renew its membership and this was warmly welcomed. COOPERATION WITH THE UNITED NATIONS. It was agreed that the Alliance should be represented at at centre, either of the Secretariat or where conferences etc were held. This must be left for the new Board. NOMINATIONS FOR BOARD. Nominations made by the societies in advance were reported. It was agreed that it would not be possible to propose in present circumstances the names of Mlle Atanatskovitch or Mme Ivanova. It was agreed to post a list of Members willing to stand for reelection. The Board then adjourned. TELEPHONE: WEMBLEY 4261 INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL DES FEMMES Equal Rights - Equal Responsibilities Droits égaux - responsabilités égales (International Alliance of Women for Suffrage and Equal Citizenship) President: MARGERY I. CORBETT ASHBY MONTHLY PAPER: HEADQUARTERS SECRETARY: HEADQUARTERS: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS KATHERINE SOMPAS 45, KINGSWAY, WEMBLEY, PRICE 6S. P.A. MIDDLESEX, ENGLAND. FOURTEENTH CONGRESS, INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND, AUGUST 10-17, 1946 R E S O L U T I O N S I. PEACE The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August, 1946, EXPRESSING its profound sorrow and sympathy with the untold sufferings caused by the war to millions all over the world, and its horror and indignation at the destruction of material and spiritual values in every field of human endeavour. REALISING that international organisation is essential in order to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophe which might engulf mankind; CONVINCED HOWEVER that stable peace can only be ensured if such an organisation is founded upon, and its political, social and economic activities governed by principles of justice, AND that international justice implies recognition, not only in theory but in practice, of the sovereign equality of all nations, large and small, of equal rights for men and women, and of fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion, NOTES WITH SATISFACTION that the Charter of the United Nations is based upon such principles of justice and pledged to the purpose of their relisation, EXPRESSES THE HOPE that in as much as the Charter falls short of a complete realisation of its lofty purpose, such defects may be duly and speedily remedied. EMPHASISES that only where women possess equal citizenship can they exercise to the full their influence for international co-operation and peace, RECALLS the unstinted support by the Alliance of the League of Nations which is now ready to give to the United Nations, URGES that full use of made of Articles 57, 63 and 71 of the Charter in order to secure the best possible co-operation between international organisations, both governmental and otherwise, and the specialised organs of the United Nations, and CALLS UPON ITS MEMBERS to unite in a common effort so that full support may be given to the new organisation and the principles upon which it is based, and thereby ensure, through national and international co-operation that the professed ideals of a community of nations, the unity of mankind and the universal brotherhood of man, may be translated into a living reality. ---------------- II. DEMOCRACY The International Alliance of Women, mooting in Interlaken, August 1946 RECALLS, after years of war in defence of democracy and freedom, it conviction that "the sacredness of human personality has always been the keystone of the women's movement - that the woman's battle is that of all mankind, that there can be no freedom for women where freedom is no long or a recognized right of every individual", REAFFIRMS THEREFORE its enthusiastic support of democracy which the experience of many land shows has given a fuller spiritual and mental life and a higher and more equal standard of living to all members of the community than any other system of government, BY A DEMOCRACY THE ALLIANCE MEANS A SYSTEM a) In which no individual or institution is above the law, where impartial justice protects the individual against arbitrary action by the State and against injustice by any other individual; b) Which arrives at its conclusions by free discussion, without an -2- artificial unity based on suppression of opinion; c) Where the final control of Government is by a Parliament elected by universal adult suffrage, to which the executive is responsible. d) Where minorities, whether racial, religious or political, are treated with tolerance and consideration, with rights equal to those of all other citizens; e) Where there is a free press, freedom of speech and of association, universal and free education, free choice of a career and the use of leisure. THIS CONGRESS THEREFORE PLACES ON RECORD ITS SUPPORT FOR SUCH A SYSTEM OF DEMOCRACY, and its belief that while no existing democracy is perfect, it can and will be perfected by the steady growth of civil responsibility which it fosters among men and women. III. POLITICAL RIGHTS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, NOTES WITH SATISFACTION THAT equal suffrage and eligibility have been granted in nearly every country; CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS which have not yet taken this essential stop, and especially those which have ratified the Charter of the United Nations based upon equal rights for men and women to pass without delay the legislation necessary to give equal political rights to their women citizens: AND FURTHER CALLS UPON ALL GOVERNMENTS to open to women upon equal terms with men all posts in the governing and administrative organs of their countries, including all posts in the judiciary and the diplomatic services; and to appoint competent women to such posts in numbers adequate to ensure that the government truly reflects the viewpoint of the whole body of citizens and that use is made of the competence and devotion of every qualified applicant. IV. ECONOMIC RIGHTS The Internal Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, EXPRESSES ITS BELIEF that the continued economic dependence of women and the lack of wide opportunity for choosing, training for and obtaining employment in many directions are one of the causes of their restricted influence in national and international affairs, and tend to prevent their full development and sense of social responsibility; FORTIFIED in its opinion by the magnificent evidence of women's aptitude and skill in every sphere of activity during the war, RE-STATES AS FOLLOWS those demands which it has consistently included in its active programme: 1. That wages be based on the value of the work in terms of skill and technical qualification, in all grades applying equally to men and women whether they work side by side, or whether by custom or convenience the work is more generally performed by men or women separately. 2. That opportunities for training and qualifying for every kind of work be equally available to girls and boys, men and women, with equal conditions of entry and promotion; that women shall have equal rights with men of admission on the same conditions to all trade unions and professional organizations, with equal protection against exploitation, industrial accidents or disease, and the same provisions for welfare and government inspection; that under any scheme of social insurance including pensions, men and women shall pay equal contributions and receive equal benefits. 3. That neither sex nor marriage shall in any way restrict a woman's right to undertake salaried work, but on the contrary, all possible measures to be taken to enable the married woman and mother, if she so desires to make this direct economic contribution to the community in conditions best suited to her circumstances. V. HOUSEWIFE AND WORKER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, CONSIDERING that the war has accelerated the tendency in industrial development to employ married women outside their homes, and since this has a bearing upon the whole economic status of married women, -3- it is urgent that the problems involved receive consideration leading to a solution permitting the married woman to fulfil her task as homemaker, wage-earner and member of society, without laying upon her an intolerable burden, DECLARES that the community which needs the services of the married woman and mother in all these capacities, should adopt the following measures to permit her to render them in reasonable conditions: a. The provision of rationalised dwellings with real and carefully planned arrangements to lighten domestic work; b. Adequate grants for the expenses of childbirth and proper provision of maternity and convalescent homes; c. Varied and widespread institutions for child care (day nurseries, nursery schools, etc.) d. The sharing of responsibility for the training and care of the children between both parents, so that while the special function of the mother is recognized, she shall be able to take her share in production and social and community life. e. The provision of opportunities for part-time work, especially for the mother of young children, at the proper standard rate of wages and without prejudice to opportunities for full-time work when desired. VI. REMOVAL OF THE LEGAL INCAPACITY OF THE MARRIED WOMAN AND MOTHER The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, August 1946, CONSIDERING that in the present state of world civilisation marriage is an institution to assure the existence and prosperity of the family under the best possible conditions; That therefore in the interests of society it is undesirable to deter people from entering the state of marriage; But recognizing that today while in most countries legislation has established equal civil rights between unmarried women and men, and between the unmarried mother and the father, it still imposes a measure of civil incapacity upon the wife and married mother; That this system of law is contrary to equity, justice and reason, and is often prejudicial to the interests of the family: DEMANDS THEREFORE that the married woman shall preserve the property and the full exercise of all rights she enjoyed before marriage, especially the right to: Bear her own name; Retain her nationality; Choose her own domicile or share in the choice of the common domicile; Exercise any activity or profession she may choose; Exercise all rights over the property she possessed before marriage or has acquired in the course of marriage; Have the same rights as her husband over property held in common; Enter into any contract with her husband authorized by the law as between unmarried persons; Exercise equal rights with her husband over the children born of their marriage. VII. TRAFFIC IN WOMEN AND THE EQUAL MORAL STANDARD The International Alliance of Women meeting in Interlaken August 1946, REAFFIRMS its belief in the urgent necessity of a high moral standard equal between men and women; CONVINCED that acts of prostitution are anti-socil but concern the individual conscience of men and women and should not constitute a legal offence, but deeply concerned at the growth of exploitation for profit of the prostitution of others resulting form war and post-war conditions, and that international action to deal with this problem is most urgent, DEMANDS that the United Nations shall without delay take stpes to secure the signature and ratification by all its member states of the Fifth International Convention on Traffic in Women, drafted by the League of Nations in 1937; AND FURTHER that a clause be inserted in the eventual Peace Treaties by which all signatories to these Treaties shall consider themselves as bound by the previous Conventions against Traffic in Women of 1904, 1910, 1921 and 1933. -4- DEMANDS FURTHER that as an urgent measure in the fight against commercial exploitation of prostitution & in the interests of justice, the system of State or municipal regulation of prostitution and all neo-regulationist systems involving compulsion, shall everywhere be abolished and replaced by the provision of adequate, free and voluntary treatment centres for venereal disease; and that laws to safeguard public order shall apply equally to men and women and be based upon the universal principles of the law of evidence and fair trial. VIII. WOMEN'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE SOLUTION OF VITAL WORLD PROBLEMS The International Alliance of Women, meeting in Interlaken, Augist 1946, RECOGNIZING that women though now largely enfranchised have as yet achieved a small proportion of representation in the Parliaments of the world and in the higher posts of administration and government, and have therefore inadequate means of voicing their opinion officially on many of the major problems of the day, RWCOMMENDS to its affiliated societies to take all possible steps to ensure that women who had had the opportunity to acquire technical competence shall be officially associated with research into the problems of: a. Production and consumption, especially as regards nutrition; b. Migration, to provide an equilibrium in the supply and demand for labour, and ensure the moral and material wellbeing of emigrants so that they may take a useful part in the life of their now country; c. Transport, to ensure an equitable distribution of the necessities of life and the raw materials of manufacture; AND FURTHER that all women as citizens should take steps through joining the appropriate organisations to study and understand these world problems so as to contribute to an informed public opinion which is essential to their proper solution. INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN MINUTES of the Meeting of the International Committee, held at Interlaken, 17th August, 1946 President: Dr. Rydh in the Chair Members of the Board: Mrs. Corbett Ashby and Mrs Schreiber, Hon. Vice Presidents Mrs. Armitage, Miss Barry, Mrs. Bonnevie, Mme Boyor, Mme Charaoui, Mrs. Everts-Goddard, Mme Joannidos, Judge Kenyon, Mme Lehmann, Mme Scolba, Mrs. Spiller, Mme Vischor Alioth, Miss Lord Strauss Presidents of proxies: Australia - Mrs. Innes Denmark: Dr. Hanson Egypt: Mmo Nabarouy France - Mme Brunschvicg Gt. Britain - Miss Brandt, Miss Reeves, Lady Pares Greece - Mme Theodoropoulos Holland - Dr. Zeelenberg India - Miss Parvathydevi, the Maharani of Vizianagram Norway - Mrs. Dakky Kiaer Palestine - Dr. Brachyahu Sweden - Mrs. Bjorlingson, Mrs. Hagon Switzerland - Dr. Grutter, Mlle Strub Dr. Rydh welcomed the members present, and reported the appointed by the Board of the following Vice-Presidents: Mme Charaoui, Miss Ginsberg, Judge Kenyon, Mme Malatorre Sellier and Mrs. Mehta; also as Treasurer, Mrs. Lundgren, with Mrs. Spiller acting pro tem.; as Corresponding Secretary, of Mme Vischor Alioth. RESOLUTIONS OF CONGRESS. Reported the Board's decisions as to action to be taken to give effect to the Resolutions, by presentation to Governments, to the United Nations, etc. FINANCE. Mrs. Spiller reported the total of promises made working out at an approximate £170 for each of the next three years. She expressed the hope that all societies would voluntarily accept to pay a minimum affiliation fee of £5 a year instead of the present statutory minimum of £2. Mrs. Ashby proposed that to raise funds for the Alliance and at the same time emphasise the international membership, each member of the affiliated societies might be asked to pay a small international supplement on her national membership feee. Mme Brunschvicg said that in appealing for funds it was essential to do so for some definite ppiece of work. Mme Charaoui said that large sums could be raised by sweepstakes. This required capital, but it might be possible to find professional sweepstakes organisers, who were willing to "buy" the idea paying a substantial sum and then undertaking the whole organisation. It was pointed out that sweepstakes were illegal in some countries. Mme Charaoui and Mrs. Innes were asked to study this possibility, taking into account the legal position, etc. Dr. Rydh said that they had raised money by small sweepstakes for which the prizes were books written by well-known authors and bearing their autographs. Miss Hamilton Smith said that money might be raised by holding an "Imaginary Congress" of which the programme might be that of the one just over, and for which delegates would contribute a sum represented by the cost of the travel and accommodation which they would have to had to incur by actual attendance. Mrs. Spiller appealed for a larger number of individual members. The representative of Holland pointed out that in their country, as possibly in others, it was impossible to send money abroad. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S NEWS. Reported the proposal made to the Board that there should be a certain amount of French material, either articles or summaries. Mme Brunschvicg expressed the hope that not much space should be given to news of purely organisational work. -2- Miss Hamilton Smith that she had good promises of articles etc. She asked that articles sent her should be clearly marked as not subject to copy right. INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEES The following Committees were agreed with a member from each country: 1. Peace: Chairman Mrs. Corbett Ashby, with Mrs. Allan (U.S.A.) and Mme Malaterre Sellier as Vice-Chairmen 2. Equal Civil and Political Rights: Chairman Mme Lehmann, with Judge Kenyon and Dr. Toldolee as Vice Chairmen 3. Economic Rights: Chairman, Mme Boyor, with Mrs. Bonnevie and Miss Reeves as Vice Chairmen 4. Equal Moral Standard: Chairman Miss Barry, with Mme Legrand Falco and Mme Cajumi de Siltestri as Vice Chairmen 5. Finance: the Treasurer as Chairman withe the following as a small Working Sub-Committee: Mme Charaoui, Mrs. Innes, Mrs. Armitago, Mrs. Slado and Mrs. Kamaladevi. It was proposed to form a committee to study amendments to the Constitution but it was decided to leave this to the Board. Reported a letter from the Italian Society on Peace which was handed to the Peace Committee. Mme Lehmann said that she considered that all the Committees should keep in touch with the work of the United Nations, and especially with its Status of Women Committee where equality was concerned. Dr. Grütter brought up the question of the protection of women's person and dignity in time of war, and suggested approaching the International Red Cross which was preparing a new International Convention in regard to the treatment of civil populations in war. It was agreed to approach the International Red Cross in this sense. FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN Interlaken, August 1946. LIST OF DELEGATES Members of the board: Mrs. Corbett Ashby Mrs. Adele Schreiber Mme. Marguerite Boyer Miss Dorothy Kenyon Miss Marie Ginsberg Mme Hoda Charaoui Dr. Hanna Rydh Mrs. Nina Spiller Mrs. Margarete Bonnevie Mme Andrée Lehmann *) Australia Australian Federation of Women Voters: Mrs. Guy Innes Miss Chave Collison Miss Marjorie Skill Denmark Dansk Kvindesamfund: Mme Ingeborg Hansen Mme Astrid Andersen Egypt Union Féministe Egyptienne: Mme Hoda Charaoui Mme Nabaroui Mme Assem Mme Harb Mme Maher France Union Française pour le Suffrage des Femmes: Delegates: Mme Brunschvieg Mme Germain Mme Marg. Schwab Mme Clara Simon Mme Vavasseur Mme Poinso-Chapuis Alternates: Mme Charrière Mlle Collin Dr. Noël Mme Regnault Mme Odette Simon Bidaux Ligue Française pour le Droit des Femmes: Delegates Mme Andrée Lehmann Mlle C. Gillot Mme Elisabeth Cassou-Vernet Mme Legrand-Falco Mme Marc Schrader Mme Alice Poirier Alternate Mlle Steiner Great Britain St. Joan's Social and Political Alliance: Delegates Miss Florence A. Barry Miss Pauline Brandt Miss B. Gadsby Mrs. Barbara Halpern Miss Christine Spender Alternates Mrs. Beer Miss Gabrielle Daye Miss Carmel Horne Miss Patricia Horne Miss K. Moclair Miss M. Moclair *) Mlle Rocha as proxy for Mme Rocha -2- Great Britain Women's Freedom League: Delegates Miss Marian Reeves Mrs. A. E. Bush Mrs. Spiller Mrs. L.M. Thomas Alternates Mrs. Munro-Hogg Miss Vicat Cole Miss Garnett National Women Citizen's Association: Delegates Lady Pares Miss Mary Hoc Mrs. Clement Davies Women for Westminster Adhering Society: Mrs. E.M. Williams Greece Ligue Hellénique pour les Droits des Femmes: Delegates Mrs. Avra Theodoropoulos Mrs. Virginia Zannas Mme Joannides Holland Vereniging voon Vrouwenbelangen en gelijk Staatsburgerschap: Delegates Dr. C. Bakker-van Bosse Mrs. H.D. Everts-Goddard Dr. N.S.C. Tenderloo Dr. J. Zeelenberg India All-India Women's Conference: Delegates Miss. K. Parvathydevi The Maharani Vidyavati of Viziangram International Council of Women Delegates Baroness Pol Boël Dr. Renée Girod Mme Pichon-Landry Alternate Miss van Veen Italy Alliance féminine italienne: Delegates Mme Amalia Teresita Sandesky Scelba Mme A. Cajumi de Silverstri Mme Angela Maria Guidi Cingolani Baronessa Anna Mazziotti-Marazzi Dott. Angiolamaria Sacconi New Zealand Delegate Mrs. Armitage Norway Norsk Kvinnesaksforening: Delegates Mrs. Dakky Kiar Mrs. Margerete Bonnevie Palestine Palestine Jewish Women's Equal Rights Association: Delegates Dr. Anna Brachyahu Mrs. Ester Oren Dr. G. Zelviansla-Mangel Sweden Frederika Bremer Förbundet: Delegates Dr. Hanna Rydh Mrs. Vera Björlingsson Mrs. E.M. Carlsson Miss Britta Eriksson Mrs. Anna B. Heckscher Mrs. Elsa Malmroth Dr. Sigrid Nygren Miss Ingrid Svensson - 3 - Sweden Svenskakvinnors Medborgarförbund: Delegates Mrs. Ellen Hagen Miss Gudrun Langenheim United States of America League of Women Voters of the United States: Miss Anna Lord Strauss Miss Dorothy Kenyon FRATERNAL DELEGATES British Commonwealth League: Mme Guy-Innes Lady Pares International co-operative Women's Guild: Mme Ella Egli-Güttinger International Federation of Business and professional Women: Mme Vavasseur Union Mondiale de la Femme pour la Concorde internationale: Mlle M. Nobs Young Women's Christian Association: Miss Marion V. Royce Fédération démocratique internationale des Femmes: Mme Muret Ukraine Alliance des Femmes ukrainiennes: Mme Milena Rudnicka Austria Mme L. Reinprecht Switzerland Association Suisse pour le Suffrage Féminin: Delegates: Frau E. Vischer-Alioth Frau Dr. A. Leuch Frl. Dr. A.L. Grütter Frl. Dr. A. Quinche Frl. Therese Grütter Frl. E. Strub Frl. Ida Weber Frau Adrienne Gonzenbach Mlle E. Kammacher Frl. M. L. Wild Frau E. Rothen-Liechti Frl. H. Stucki Alternates Signora Decarli-Orelli Mme M.A. Wyss-Russi Mme F. Beerli Frau Haberstich Frl. Dr. Maria Lehner Frau R. Gygi, Biel Mlle Denise Lecoultre, Secrétariat féminin suisse Frl. Dr. A. Vollenweider Frau Dr. A. Débrit-Vogel Frl. Dr. Engler Mlle Suzanne Bonard Mlle Evyane Sennwald Mlle Schätzel INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN TREASURER'S REPORT TO BOARD MEETING STOCKHOLM, APRIL, 1947. ACCOUNTS FOR 1946. I attach the accounts for the year 1946 which show that owing mainly to the Congress, the financial position of the Alliance has improved. I deal with various separate items below. CONGRESS These accounts show total receipts for the Congress of £1064. This sum is made up as follows: Mrs. Catt's Gift (half the total amount) £618 Donations and fees 397 Repayment of loans 49 £1064 The last item may be disregarded as it is only the replacement of money advanced, so that the true total is £1015. The expenses shown in these accounts are those paid in England, for printing and for the Secretary's journey, etc., amounting to £80. The remaining expenses were advanced in Swiss money from the legacy left to the Alliance by Mlle. Gourd. The equivalent in English money was £237 and since it could not be transferred to Switzerland, it was replaced by putting a deposit in the Post Office Savings Bank in England so that it would be available for any special purpose. This money has now been used for the Middle East tour. This makes the real sum for Congress expenses approximately £317. To this will be added the cost of printing the Congress Report of just over £49, which was paid in January, 1947, and does not therefore appear here. The full cost of the Congress was therefore £366, which is a very moderate sum compared with previous Congresses, especially taking into consideration the increased cost of everything. From the Congress receipts there is now included in the balance on the Alliance current Bank account or in the Post Office the money received in donations and the balance of Mrs. Catt's £618 (after deducting the £317), making £698 in all. PRESENT POSITION The accounts show, apart from Congress receipts, an income for the year of £634, from which must be deducted the £50 grant from the Nobel Committee for the Travelling Commissions, and which was also placed on deposit in the Post Office, and has now been spent. Probably many of the items of income were larger than normal, since many societies paid up arrears on their annual fees incurred during the war years and we have had a large influx of new individual members. It might, however, be reasonable to reckon on an annual income of £500. The current balance in the Bank at the end of the year was £521, and we still have a sum of £273 in the Post Office. If we desire to put aside the balance from Mrs. Catt's £618, after deducting the £366 for the Congress, amounting to £252, we should only have as "general fund money" about £20 in the Post Office, which, with the current Bank balance, gives us £540 for running expenses. -2- The promises made at Interlaken, taken as a lump sum over the period before the next Congress, and not yet paid, amount to £371. This makes, with the above, £857 in hand, apart from income for the period up to the next Congress, which may be taken as two and a half years, if the Congress is held in the summer of 1949. The budget below is based on these figures. Apart from this "general fund money" the Alliance has the following resources: Mlle Gourd's legacy (in Swiss money 5963 frs.) say £350 Balance of half Mrs. Catt's fund in sterling £252 " " " " " " in U.S.A. (2500 dollars) say £618 870 £1220 In addition to these sums, the President has afund in Sweden from donations towards the Travelling Commissions, and Swedish fees for individual memberships, etc. hold there. BUDGET The following budget for the period from January 1947 to June 1949 is roughly based on the figures for the year 1946, not counting Congress expenditure or the sums put aside as above, and with an allowance for non-recurring items of income or expenditure. It is necessarily very rough. Receipts Income at the rate of £500 p.a. Jan. to June 1947 £250 July to June 1948 500 July to June 1949 500 One fifth of resources in hand as above total £857, for 1947 171 Two fifths for 1948 342 Two fifths for 1949 342 Total £2105 Expenditure Salaries £1075 Int. Women's News 660 Stationery 45 Postage 165 Telephone & telegrams 90 Miscellaneous 75 Total £2110 This shows that if expenditure does not increase for ordinary routine expenses, and income is maintained, it should be just possible to pay for the Alliance office on the present basis, though there could not be very much left in the Treasury when the Congress is due. It might therefore be prudent to endeavour to retain that part of Mrs. Catt's gift still held in trust in the U.S.A. so as to be certain of having something in hand to meet the expenses for the next Congress or unforeseen expenditure in the meantime. For instance, no allowance has been made for any expenses for the Secretary attending Board Meetings, etc. CONCLUSION I present this Report with the satisfaction of being able to show a very favourable position. The amount available for Travelling Commissions, if we do not use the balance of Mrs. Catt's fund in the U.S.A. for this purpose, may not be very large, but we may hope to be able to raise further money for this special purpose more easily than for ordinary current expenditure. I consider we must feel grateful not only to Mrs. Catt and to our late Hon. Secretary, but also to those societies and members who gave such generous aid at Interlaken. N. SPILLER Hon. Treasurer. INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF WOMEN RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT FOR 12 MONTHS ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1946. Expenditure Receipts £ s d £ s d Salaries & Insurance 430. 7.10 Donations 98. 2. 4 Int. Women's News 264. 6. 5 1/2 Members' fees 79.18. 7 Stationery 16. 15. 5 Affiliation fees 119.10. 5 Postage 66. 10. 3. Int. Women's News Telephone and subs. 288. 11. 3 telegrams 29. 12. 3 1/2 Congress 1064. 13. 8 Miscellaneous : XIII Congress pledge Income tax 3. 10. 0 Pledge 20. 0. 0 Liasion ctee. Miscellaneous 19. 1. 4 sub. 1. 10. 0 Interests: Cheque books 1. 0. 0 Deposit Barclay's Typewriter Bank 4.0 repairs 13. 7. 9 P.O.S.B. 8. 0.5 8. 4. 5 Advance Mrs. Ashby for U.S.A. 50. 0. 0 Sundries 14. 6. 2 83. 13. 11 Congress 80. 9. 3 Balances Balances 31.12.1946 : 1.1.1946 : P.O.S.B. 568. 6. 7 P.O.S.B. 273. 6.2 Bank deposit 41. 9 2 Bank Deposit 41. 5.2 Bank C/A 521.15. 4 Bank C/A 92.16.1 Petty Cash 2.13. 7 1134. 4. 8 Petty Cash 10.8 407. 18. 1 Total £ 2106. 0. 1 Total £ 2106. 0. 1 STATEMENT ADOPTED BY A MEETING OF WOMEN WITH MRS. CORBETT ASHBY, FOR 20 YEARS PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMAN SUFFRAGE ALLIANCE, and THE NEW PRESIDENT, MRS. RYHD, HELD AT THE HOME OF MRS. CARRIE CHAPMAN CATT, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER ith, 1946. We women of many lands and varying political faiths unite in a profound belief that lasting peace is within our power to attain. After nearly fifty years of organized effort by the International Woman Suffrage Alliance for recognition of the principle of equal citizenship for women and men our goal has been attained. In many lands today, where democratic government is being established, the vote [is being] has been given equally to women & that they are already sitting in the Parliaments of many nations. Therefore, in the hands of women today lies equal responsibility with men for war or peace. We call on women to meet this responsibility by ACTION in the cause of lasting peace. Apathy and ignorance are no longer excusable. Unlimited power is in our hands if we know how to use it intelligently, and care enough to use it effectively. We believe in the principle of Collective Security as embodied in the UNITED NATIONS. We uphold every move to strengthen the UNITED NATIONS. We advocate armed police for the United Nations to enforce its decisions. We American women urge a well- defined foreign policy on the part of the United States. We ask for firmness and tolerance, for patience and understanding, for courage and faith in our goal. With the fate of our children at stake, and the end of our civilization threatened by Atomic weapons, no woman can fail to meet this challenge. We call on the women of all lands to join with us in our determination to give ourselves untiringly to a world of peace and justice based on law, and free from war. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.