Suchergebnisse

The contemporary party system in Latvia is analyzed as a function of its political past, most notably its history of Soviet domination, cleavages, & multiethnic nature. In 1989, the country attained independence from Soviet control, though its first free elections were not held until 1993. Guidelines for the conduct of elections found in the Constitution & specific electoral laws are reviewed. The demise of the authority of the Communist party & reallocation of power to the parliament, government, & newly formed political parties are described & 3 groups of contemporary political parties are classified according to their origins. Two major cleavages characterizing contemporary politics are identified -- center/periphery or independence/ethnic, & socioeconomic -- though ideological differences between them are relatively minor. Statistical data are presented on the results of the elections of 1993, 1995, 1998, & 2002. The special place of the Social Democratic Party in Latvia is discussed & factors contributing to its fall from popularity after great successes at the polls in 1999 are examined. Steps necessary to increase the stability of democracy are outlined. K. Hyatt Stewart

Analysis of the pre-1989 situation; The development of political science since 1989; Core theoretical and methodological orientations; Thematic orientation and funding; Public space and academic debates; Views on further development and major challenges.