ABSTRACT

Academic linkages have positive serendipitous effects; they can provide scholars and scientific institutions in countries dominated by oppressive regimes with a sense of greater independence and a continuing lifeline to the international fraternity of scholars, pending a return to events which might establish or restore greater freedom. The Convenio's operative policy guidelines were to maintain a focus on international standards of academic quality of both programs and participants and a conscious attempt to avoid partisan political considerations in the decision-making process. Beginning in May of 1968 a reform movement swept through the University of Chile, which reflected changes going on in the larger society and, indeed, throughout the world. The University of California demanded answers to allegations of unacceptable political pressure and activity and a proposed visit of an academic delegation was canceled.