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The Baltic States After Independence represents the first comprehensive introduction to the political and economic systems of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania after independence and the first attempt to compare their development in the light of current theories of post-communist transition. Ole Norgaard's new book attempts to understand the processes and obstacles which have characterized the Baltic transition from the Soviet system towards sovereignty, democratic institutions and a market economy. Emphasizing the importance of each country's pre-communist history, Ole Norgaard examines the different political institutions that have evolved in the three countries and how these institutions affect the dual transition towards democracy and market economy. After identifying the general nature, issues and strategies of the transition process, later chapters focus on political and economic life, ethnic relations and the relevance of the Baltic experience to general transition theory. The Baltic States After Independence offers a unique insight into political, economic and social life in the three independent Baltic states which will be welcomed by students, researchers and political analysts.