An analysis of Soviet Jewish emigration in the 1970s

This thesis demonstrates the multi-faceted nature of Soviet Jewish emigration and the policy that governed it in the 1970s. The research shows that although the factors contributing to Soviet policy on emigration varied throughout the decade, it was domestic rather than foreign affairs that determined Soviet policy on Jewish emigration. In particular, economic and demographic trends had much to do with Soviet emigration decisions as the 1970s progressed. Soviet Jewish emigration was noteworthy for its rapid growth, sustained for a period of nearly ten years, as well as for its sudden decline and virtual cessation during the 1980s. With few exceptions, most studies ignore the domestic considerations affecting emigration decisions. The classic explanation for Soviet policy portrays emigration as a barometer of US-Soviet relations, with the Soviet Jews used as 'pawns' in, or 'hostages' to, the superpower rivalry. While an element of that interpretation is true, particularly with respect to the early period of emigration, it ultimately fails because it cannot account for the entire course of emigration. By neglecting the domestic situation, such analysis does not view emigration in a sufficiently broad context. Included in the dissertation is an examination of Soviet German emigration, instructive for illustrating that neither specific bilateral nor general East-West relations were exclusive determinants of emigration policy. Likewise, the effect of the United States policy of linking trade and emigration as outlined in the Jackson-Vanik amendment to the Trade Act of 1974 is explored, as are the 1975 Helsinki Final Act and other international instruments addressing freedom of movement. Extensive historical background, with special emphasis on Soviet nationality policy, is provided in the thesis.