The Boundaries of Germany and Political Clauses for Europe
The Western Boundary of Germany:—On the Belgian border Germany admits the full sovereignty of Belgium over the contested territory of Moresnet and over part of Prussian Moresnet. Germany also renounces all rights over Eupen and Malmedy. Luxemburg passes from the sphere of German influence. From Luxemburg southwards, the boundary of France is her boundary previous to the war of 1870, Lorraine and Alsace being thus restored to her. With regard to the Saar Basin, on the north-east frontier of Lorraine, there are special provisions. As compensation for the destruction of the coal mines in Northern France, and in part payment of the total reparation due, Germany cedes to France all the coal mines there situated, while she hands over the government of the territory to the League of Nations. After fifteen years the inhabitants of the territory are to declare by secret vote the sovereignty under which they desire to be placed, and if, in accordance with their will, the territory be returned to Germany, the mines must be purchased from France by Germany at a price to be fixed by a board of experts. As a guarantee for the execution of the treaty, the German territory west of the Rhine (i.e. north of the point where the French boundary leaves the Rhine), together with the Rhine bridgeheads, will remain in the occupation of the Allies, part of it for five years, part of it for ten years, and the remainder for fifteen years. At the end of these periods stipulated portions will be evacuated subject to the faithful performance by Germany of her pledges.
Germany is forbidden fortifications and constructions of military use within fifty kilometres of the east bank of the Rhine.
The Southern Boundary of Germany:—With Switzerland, the present frontier. With Austria, the frontier of the 3rd August 1914, from Switzerland to Czecho-Slovakia. With Czecho-Slovakia, the Austro-German frontier in this area of the 3rd August 1914, to a point eight kilometres east of Neustadt.
The Eastern Boundary of Germany:—Almost all of West Prussia and Posen go to Poland. Danzig with the territory round it becomes a free city. A portion of East Prussia is left to Germany, but its northern corner is taken from her and the fate of a southern portion is left for decision by plebiscite. The fate of a part of Upper Silesia is also left for decision by plebiscite.
The boundary between Germany and Denmark depends upon the will of the inhabitants of northern and central Schleswig. The nationality of the inhabitants of this territory is left for decision by plebiscite.
Heligoland will be rendered harmless by the destruction of all fortifications, harbours, etc.
Russia:—Germany abrogates the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk and all agreements with the Maximalist Government of Russia. The Allied Powers reserve on behalf of Russia her right to obtain from Germany reparation.
Part IV
German Rights and Interests outside Germany