Property Restitution in Central and Eastern Europe: the State of Affairs for American Claimants

This hearing examined property restitution and compensation efforts of the post-Communist governments of Central and Eastern Europe. In particular, this hearing examined their efforts in regards to the property of refugees who fled to the United States during World War II. Co-Chairman Smith reported on his efforts to personally raise concerns with officials of many countries regarding the need for nondiscriminatory laws that would be faithfully implemented. While Central and Eastern European governments have done much regarding restitution, the Helsinki Commission continued to receive a steady stream of letters from individuals and organized groups pleading for assistance in their struggles to recover stolen property.