Building Democracy?: The International Dimension of Democratisation in Eastern Europe - Hardcover

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0718514599 ISBN 13: 9780718514594

Synopsis

The focus of this work is the international dimension of democratization in eastern Europe. Coverage of this theme includes: the role of national governments and international organizations; the behaviour of non-state actors such as entrepreneurs and ethnic groups with cross-border allegiances; unintentional effects, such as those of market forces; and deliberate attempts to exercise influence, such as the use of trade barriers. The work argues that international factors have been a principal component of, and not always favourable to, democratization in eastern Europe. It examines in turn comparative perspectives, theories of democracy and democratization, problems on international security - including the collapse of Yugoslavia - and the roles of the EU and the former USSR. Also considered are the cases of the Czech Repbulic, Slovakia, Hungary and Poland.

About this title

Synopsis

There is little doubt that the countries of East/Central Europe are evolving towards democracy, and the 1990s-style "Marshall Plan" is obviously designed to facilitate the process. However, much of the existing literature is concerned with essentially domestic developments (for example, the collapse of communist rule and emergence of new party systems) and little attention has been paid to the international dimension. Bringing together country experts and some of the key names in comparative and international politics, this volume critically analyzes and assesses the external influences from the EC, USA and former USSR on the democratization process in Eastern Europe. The approach is both theoretical and empirical, and the book should have a wide audience in European and international politics.

About the Author

Geoffrey Pridham is professor of politics at the University of Bristol.

Edition details

• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0718514599
• ISBN 13: 9780718514594
• Binding: Hardcover