ABSTRACT

The integration of post-socialist Central and Eastern Europe into the EU is one of the success stories of European development. The region has seen significant economic convergence, dramatic changes in socio-economic indicators and improvements in the natural environment. However, some challenges remain, such as political divergence, public governance issues and population demographics.

This book identifies and analyses the key post-1990 developments across the New Member States at the sub-national and national levels, with frequent country-level and regional comparisons. Careful attention is paid to drawing out commonalities in development trajectories while appreciating each country’s unique context. Drawing on the academic literature and illuminating empirical material, the broad range of topics discussed in the book paints a detailed picture of both change and stability in Central and Eastern Europe.

It will be valuable reading for advanced students, researchers and policymakers in regional studies, European studies, human geography, political economy and transition economics.

chapter |8 pages

Introduction

part I|90 pages

Systemic foundations of transformation

part II|106 pages

Reforms and challenges

chapter 6|18 pages

Labour markets

chapter 7|27 pages

Running faster or measuring better?

How Central and Eastern European science is catching up with Western Europe 1

part IV|54 pages

The future challenges of the CEE countries within integrated Europe