ABSTRACT
As East-Central Europe negotiates its transition, it is keenly aware of its difficult historical legacy. Sandwiched between Russia and Germany, which have in the past both sought to dominate the area, East-Central Europe is concerned about what role these two countries will play in its future. Will they assist or hinder the construction of viable, post-communist societies?
Germany is preoccupied with the domestic challenges of unification. Firmly embedded in the European Union, it has no hegemonical designs on the area. It is, however, closely involved economically and politically with East-Central Europe, seeking to integrate it into Western institutions. The German government and the private sector also remain committed to stabilizing Russia’s political and economic system.
Russia, too, is preoccupied with its domestic problems and with redefining its international role. It does not seek to recreate the Soviet empire in Eastern Europe, but recently Russia and East-Central Europe have begun to establish closer ties after three years of mutual neglect. The uncertainties about the outcome of Russia’s transition, do, however, leave questions about Russia’s future policy toward East-Central Europe. This reinforces the necessity for transatlantic partnership in assisting both East-Central Europe and Russia in the difficult transition process, to ensure that the ghosts of the past do not reappear.
