European Zionists Overwhelmingly Reject Plan to Restructure World Organization

A Europe-wide Zionist conference which closed here today voted with virtual unanimity to strengthen the World Zionist Organization by the infusion of young blood, but not to alter its structure or modify its existing framework. The vote was a rejection of far-reaching plans for a re-organized WZO which are on the agenda of the next World Zionist Congress opening in Jerusalem next February.

The Zionist conference here, attended by 64 delegates and representatives of various groups from all parts of Western Europe, Scandinavia and Britain, debated the problem of the movement’s future in light of the social and psychological orientation of today’s Jews, and especially against the background of Israel’s triumphs and problems arising from last June’s Six-Day War. Also the subject of impassioned debate was the fundamental question of aliyah–Jewish immigration to Israel–which is one of the pillars of the Zionist movement.

The conference also adopted resolutions presented by the representatives of youth movements, students and volunteers calling for democratic elections within the Zionist movement, equal rights for their representatives on Zionist bodies; and better opportunities and improved conditions for the immigration of professional classes to Israel.

Another resolution adopted by the conference voiced the body’s deepest regrets at French President de Gaulle’s present position toward Israel which is contrary to the traditional friendship between the two nations.

The debate on the Zionist structure heard appeals for greater efficiency and dynamism. What is needed, speakers said, was less a change of structure than a take-over of leadership by younger men, and the adaptation of existing bodies to their new requirements. The resolution to that effect was adopted with only one dissenting vote.