An introduction to post-Communist Bulgaria: political, economic and social transformations

Book abstract:

This work addresses the problems facing a country emerging from half a century of totalitarianism seeking to establish a stable and enduring democratic political system.

Organised over seven chapters including an introduction and conclusion, the second chapter deals with the historical background. Chapter three covers the transition period and examines the role of the public and the political elite in the overthrow of the totalitarian regime, and the formation of the new democratic political institutions and the continuing influence of the former Communists. The economic transition is explored in chapter four with analysis of the economic conditions at the beginning of the 1990s. The role of emerging civil society in the process of democratisation is discussed in chapter five and special attention is given to the role played by voluntary civic associations and non-governmental organisations. The foreign policy developments since 1989 are examined in chapter six and deals with Bulgaria's relations with the EU and NATO, and its Balkans' neighbours. The concluding chapter concentrates on the problems facing Bulgaria in the creation of a vibrant civil society, the dangers for its democratic policies and the prospects of participation in European integration.

The work will interest students, scholars and policy makers in the fields of European studies, and post-communist European politics.

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