African countries, historically generous to refugees - especially when they were fleeing colonial oppression - are now balking at the burden.

Many rich countries had balked at new lending while Mr. Wolfowitz remained in charge.

Developing countries balked, resisting pressure to move rapidly until questions about the mechanisms are answered.

But those countries have balked at taking more forceful action against the North Koreans.

One delegate suggested that the second proposed increase might not be carried out because some countries that are not able to increase their production may balk.

But countries like France, Germany, Russia and China balked.

But other European countries are balking, worried by new restrictions on one of the few remaining growth areas of their economies.

Some formerly Communist countries that eagerly joined the European Union are balking at the social policies that come with democracy.

Foreign countries often balk at any added terms, fearing interference by special interest groups seeking greater concessions.

But the smaller countries have balked at the idea of losing representation, if only for a limited time.