The Soviet constitution is an impressive document. It allows freedom of the press, of assembly and of religion. Discrimination based on sex, race or nationality is forbidden. Every citizen has the right to a job, to "rest and leisure," to free health care and education, to housing and even to such "cultural benefits" as television programs and books.
No wonder Soviet workers take off every Oct. 7 to celebrate the adoption of this generous charter. But the reality is that most of the Soviets' political freedoms have never existed in practice or are locked in a straitjacket of limitations. Article 39,...
To continue reading:
or
Log-In
