Economic populism in post-Soviet Lithuania
ENIn 2003, the Economist published a lauding article about Lithuania called Baltic Tiger. This was the nickname given to the Baltic states during their economic boom in the early 21st century. A popular perception that the Baltic countries quickly transformed after independence into capitalist systems had become prevalent. In actuality, the transition to a free market economy was tumultuous, marred by ideological shifts in the electorate. This research explores the motivations behind Lithuanian political activism. Why has Lithuania supported different political ideologies instead of favoring one consistently? Why did the ex-Communists return to power so soon after independence? What motivates Lithuanian political support? This paper will argue it is the conjunction of three main factors: economic pragmatism, populist candidates and a lack of strong ideological affiliations. [Publisher annotation]
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