Soviet Justice
Exciting headlines announcing the release of Soviet dissidents won’t mean anything until the Soviet system of justice itself changes, guaranteeing free speech, the right to assemble and other civil rights. When Soviet dissidents are released they can be detained again at government whim.
Meanwhile, dissidents serve sometimes as “window dressing” to win concessions from the West when their release is announced. The “good news” is applauded around the world, often distracting attention from unpalatable Soviet actions taking place elsewhere.
M. JAFFE
Montebello
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