Central and East European Politics

How did the pre-communist and communist eras impact the democratic transition in Central and Eastern Europe? Compare the experiences of two countries.

To what extent should we see the interwar period as a dress rehearsal for the postcommunist period? Discuss both domestic factors and international relations.

To what extent has a democratic political culture been created in the region (Central and Eastern Europe_? Be specific in terms of values and attitudes. How do we explain the persistence/existence of non-democratic attitudes and values?

To what extent has the legacy of communism and the interwar period affected Central and Eastern European countries' "return to Europe"? In other words, how has the history of the region affected these countries' process in joining or working with the EU and NATO?

Discuss the political impact of ethnic differences in Central and Eastern Europe during the communist period and after the fall of communism. Be as exhaustive as possible in both time periods.

Discuss various forms of privatization after the end of communism and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Discuss three social problems that have arisen following the end of communism.

What impact has the legacy of communism had on the development of civil society in the post-communist period?

To what extent have stable party systems been developed in postcommunist Central and Eastern Europe? Discuss, with regard to the main stages of party development.

Discuss the main elements of the electoral model of regime change. What is necessary to have a successful electoral revolution?

How did the Yugoslav model differ from the Soviet model, and how did these differences contribute to the break-up of Yugoslavia?

Who rules in postcommunist Central and Eastern Europe? Discuss, with reference to the characteristics of political leaders in two countries in the region.