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This book traces the development of the political institutions, electoral systems, parties, civil society, economic and social policies and foreign affairs of the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania over the last quarter century.

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List of Tables and Figures Preface Sources Introduction 1. A Brief Political History of the Baltic states 2. Elected and Unelected Institutions 3. Elections, Referendums and Parties 4. Civil Society, Corruption and Ethnic Relations 5. Economic, Social and Welfare Developments 6. Foreign and Security Policy Bibliography

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´Auers provides the first genuinely comparative overview of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian politics. His comprehensive and systematic analysis is based on extensive research and is written with flair. It is highly recommended for students of political science, yet easily accessible for anyone with a more general interest in the region.´

Andres Kasekamp, Professor of Baltic Politics, University of Tartu, Estonia

´This comparative volume suitably highlights similarities and differences between the three Baltic states while at one end grounding the discussion in historical experience and at the other giving it a contemporary ring with colourful anecdotes. It both provides students with comprehensive coverage of these countries and offers essential background to those interested in current affairs of the region.´

Geoffrey Pridham, Professor of European Politics, University of Bristol, UK

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Daunis Auers is Associate Professor of Comparative Politics, University of Latvia, Latvia.

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