Yes, in many countries, CITH is virtually non-existent. Under the norms established by Rome, each country’s conference of bishops is authorized to allow the practice, and, in turn, each individual bishop is likewise allowed to adopt it (or not) in his diocese. It seems that there are many countries in Eastern Europe that either do not allow the practice at all, or have catechized the faithful sufficiently that they feel no need to adopt “trendy options” just for the rush and thrill of employing them.
Attached below is a link to EWTN’s website, quoting the relevant sections from the documents that extend permission for the practice. Notice the concern about irreverence marked out in boldface by EWTN. Like, them, I wonder to what extent this concern is taken seriously by our bishops and priests.
http://www.ewtn.com/expert/expertfaqframe.asp?source=/vexperts/conference.htm
Hmmm. Unfortunately, the link goes to their front page of FAQ’s. Click on “Liturgy and Sacred Music,” then, in that page, click on “Communion in the Hand.” That willl bring up the documents I was referring to.
The Roman Catholic Church isn't 'catholic' today. When traveling to the various states and in foreign countries it is impossible to understand what exactly is going on.
Back in the pre-Vatican II days one always knew what was happening.