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The Republic of Belarus, 2002.
A brief insight into the Republic of Belarus including its history, politics and economy.
3,069 words (approx. 12.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 108.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Republic of Belarus or Respublika Belarus, which is located in East Central Europe. It is bounded by Russia to the east, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west and the Baltic republics of Latvia and Lithuania to the northwest.
Outline
The Land
The People
Culture
Economy
Government and History
Problems
Hints and Lesson
From the Paper
"Before 1990, the Communist Party of and in Belarus monopolized power with the participation of a coalition of pro-reform groups in elections to the Supreme Soviet. The legislature then was hardly changed, with most of the seats won by Communist Party members. The Party was banned after an attempted take-over of the Soviet government in August 199, but the ban was lifted in February 1993, which restored and reconstituted in the Party of Communists of Belarus (PCB). Thereon, the Communists won a plurality seat in the 1995 election to the Supreme Soviet. There too were the Agrarian Party, the United Civic Party and the main opposition group since 1988, the Belarusian Popular front or BPF. These were only a few of the more than 20 active political parties in Belarus in 1996."
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Eastern and Western Europe: A Political Comparison, 2002.
An analysis of the differing cultures and mentalities and politics of Eastern and Western Europe.
1,502 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Eastern and Western Europe have always been different from each other, both politically and socially. Clear distinctions have always been drawn between the two areas. It shows how from their ancient beginnings, shrouded in the mists of history to modern times, Eastern and Western Europe have followed different paths in their development. Even today, the political and social climate in these two areas is distinctly different, and it is obvious to a traveler that they are in one or the other without being told. This paper explores the divergent developments of Eastern and Western Europe and looks for the various factors that contributed to the different paths each region has taken.
From the Paper
"Eastern Europe is a region that traditionally encompasses all of the land from the Balkans to Czechoslovakia to Poland. Eastern Europe today is just beginning to recover from decades under Communist rule, and capitalism is beginning to re-emerge. There is a highly concentrated number of working class people in Easter Europe, one of the highest concentrations of any area in the world. However, despite this high concentration of working people, there is still a large amount of collectivized state property, a remnant of communism. Any strike or disruption in the workforce in Eastern Europe is automatically a political situation, because the employer is the state. There is also a high degree of pollution in Eastern Europe, caused by the rapid push toward industrialization forced on it by the communists. This pollution has lead to environmental degradation and a high number of people operating at less than optimal health in the region. Eastern Europe today is struggling; it is not thriving, but it has not yet bowed down its head in defeat."
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Former Soviet Satellites and the European Union, 2002.
This paper discusses the possibility that Hungary, Belarus and Ukraine might join the European Union.
3,570 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 120.95
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Abstract
This paper states that each country---Hungary, Belarus and Ukraine--- has a long history of special internal concerns, foreign relations goals, and socio-political aims that make joining the European Union a difficult decision. The author feels that Hungary, which is more like the West, is more likely to join the EU. The paper contends that Belarus and Ukraine, whose economies and societies are intertwined with Russia, more likely will turn towards Russia. Several long quotations. End notes.
From the Paper
"Diplomatic relations were opened between Hungary and the European West in August 1988. This was followed by the Europe Agreement which was signed on December 16, 1991. This gave Hungary the status of an associated state within the European Union. As a result, there began a steady flow of Western funds into the Hungarian economy. Hungary was one of the first beneficiaries of the European Union?s new PHARE program, a program specifically designed to render financial assistance to countries seeking admission into the European Union. Since 1990, Hungary has received more than ?1 billion under this program. Importantly, these funds do not have to be repaid, and have contributed successfully to the reinvigoration of Hungary?s infrastructure: economic development and restructuring, environmental investments, research and development, public administration, human resources development, and various other tasks deems necessary to prepare estate for membership in the European Union. Furthermore, Hungary also benefits from two additional programs, the Instrument for Structural Policies for Pre-Accession, and the Special Accession Program for Agriculture and Rural Development. Under these programs, Hungary expects to receive nearly ?140 million each year over the course of the next few years. This cooperation with the West has been an extremely positive experience for Hungary."
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Poland and the EU, 2002.
A look at the process that Poland has to undertake in order to become a full member of the European Union.
987 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a brief look at the history of Poland and then focuses on its current political and economic status. It explains that the country is set to become a full EU member by mid 2004 and examines what conditions and criteria the country needs to meet and uphold in order for this to occur.
From the Paper
"Among the ten prospective members of the European Union Specified by the Nice conference, Poland bears the distinction of both having the largest population at 38.6 million, and the largest GDP at 176 billion. From 1997 through 2001, the Polish economy has grown at a steady 4.1% a year and is in many ways beginning to resemble its new western partners rather than its still-troubled eastern neighbors. (Economist, Jul. 29, 2002) Despite this, Poland differs from the traditional continental powers in several distinct ways. Perhaps most unique is the Republic's relationship with the United States."
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"Generations of Winter", 2002.
Introduces and discusses Vassily Aksyonov's "Generations of Winter".
1,760 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 68.95
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce and discuss the book "Generations of Winter," by Vassily Aksyonov. Specifically, it discusses the author's background, and how the work reflects the political and social environment of the time. Aksyonov was familiar with the atrocities of socialist Russia firsthand. He spent time in Russian prisons and was expelled from his country because of his writing. The paper shows that the history of Russia is full with such stories of oppression and censor and "Generations of Winter" recounts only some of these atrocities and how they affect the people of Russia, with pathos, humor and insight.
From the Paper
"Aksyonov writes in "Generations of Winter" of some of the excesses and terror of the Stalin regime, and does so with humor and candor. "In 1951, [after this first book in a trilogy takes place] Mr. Aksyonov points out, the slave-labor force within the Soviet Union exceeded 14 million. 'To the camps were sent even the bumblers who showed up late for work - in other words, who committed a crime that amounted to sabotage of reconstruction'" (Jacoby 35).
His book is an ideal example of the political and social environment of the times. There was extreme unrest in Russia, people were revolting against the government, and then war struck. Lives were uncertain and distorted forever because of the war, and because of the brutality of the Stalin regime. By following the lives of this family and their friends and lovers, Aksyonov shows first hand the lack of political and personal freedoms, how the people were always afraid, and how they realized their lives would never return to the good times of pre-communist Russia."
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The Republic of Georgia, 2002.
A history of the Republic of Georgia since the fall of the U.S.S.R.
1,536 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the Republic of Georgia is a nation with its own history and now like so many other republics freed after the fall of the Soviet Empire, Georgia is reinventing its past and rediscovering what has been lost, forgotten, or distorted during the years of Soviet rule. It examines the factors that led up to its declaration of independence, the leaders involved, its economy then and now and the direction in which the country is headed.
From the Paper
"In 1999, Pope John Paul visited the predominantly Orthodox Georgia. However, despite his pleas for closer ties between the two churches, ?no Orthodox clergy attended his mass? (Sheets pg). His visit was seen by Georgians as more political than religious, helping to shine the international spotlight on Georgia. In his homily, the Pope expressed, ?With its culture, history and faith, Georgia has always looked towards the West and has made its own contribution to Christian Europe? (Sheets pg). He went on to describe Georgia as a ?model of respect and tolerance towards other religions and noted that places of worship for Christians, Jews and Moslems stood close together in Tbilisi? (Sheets pg)."
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The Czech Republic, 2002.
An analysis of the post socialist economy of the Czech Republic.
2,567 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 93.95
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Abstract
This paper investigates the post socialist economy of the Czech Republic. It explores the macroeconomic experiences of the country over the past decade. The paper addresses questions such as political re-organization, trade liberalization, privatization, economic stabilization and economic growth. The paper discusses whether the post socialist system has been successful or unsuccessful.
Introduction
About the Czech Republic
Political Reorganization
The Economy of the Czech Republic
Economy over the Past Ten Years
Privatization
Success or Failure
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"The CIA World Fact Book reports that after World War II Czechoslovakia was influenced greatly by the Soviet Union. Furthermore in 1968, ?an invasion by Warsaw Pact troops ended the efforts of the country's leaders to liberalize party rule and create "socialism with a human face." (Czech Republic) The Czech people staged anti-Soviet demonstrations and in turn they were oppressed by the Soviet region. In 1989 the Soviet authority finally collapsed and the nation was freed through the "Velvet Revolution." In January of 1993, the Czechoslovakia became two separate national components, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Encarta reports that the Czech Republic is a member of NATO and is attempting to compete in the global economy with world markets."
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Moscow, 2002.
A city profile of Moscow, capital of Russia.
984 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper gives an overview of Moscow, the capital of Russia. It discusses various issues including the city's population make-up and demographics, an historical overview, urban elements and cultural and social features. The paper also looks at Moscow's educational facilities.
From the Paper
"During the Soviet era, streets of the central zone were broadened. The major part of the ancient inner city was brought down and substituted by government ministries, large workplace and residential buildings, command centers of national and international establishments, hotels and superior stores, developed marketplaces and key cultural centers (RACC. 2001). Consequently, one can only get the hint of Moscow?s heritage through small cultural areas still preserved. Among the famous architectural structures are Moscow Kremlin, The Red Square, Boulevard Ring, Garden Ring, Moscow Little Ring Railway, Moscow Ring Road, Arbat Street and the Kutuzov Avenue (RACC. 2001)."
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Health-Care in the Ukraine, 2002.
This paper discusses the post-communist reform of the Ukrainian health-care system.
2,190 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
This paper analyses the post-soviet transformation of the institutions providing health care in the Ukraine, basing the study on various statistical tables. It addresses the lack of interest in the transformation of these institutions and lists reasons for this lack of interest. It discusses the change in management structure in the light of the basic economic indicators for the Ukraine. It tackles the problem of corruption in Ukrainian organizations, looks at the changes in the sources of finance of health-care and deals with the additional costs borne by patients. The paper concludes that the current situation concerning health-care is absolutely adequate to the general situation in the Ukrainian economy and that the reforms are unnecessary.
From the Paper
"There has been a noticeable lack of interest of western observers and reformers in the multiple transitions in health care in post-Soviet societies. The Ukraine is not an exclusion, since the country?s economy is obviously the major reason of all the problems it is witnessing nowadays. Therefore, in the western debate mostly the changes in the other sectors are considered. In, politics, for example, the emphasis has been made on the shift from dictatorship towards democracy. In economics, the focus is mainly stuck on transformation from centrally planned system to capitalism, or market economy, as well as on the inclusion in global markets. Moreover, in foreign policy, the attention is drawn to the implementation of openness to Europe from the suspicious attitude that existed before. Recently, interest has also extended to the phenomenon of crime and corruption in post-Soviet countries."
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The Cold War, 2002.
This paper describes the Cold War, one of the longest (nearly fifty years) and most frightening stand-offs when the world thought it was close to the edge of complete destruction.
3,655 words (approx. 14.6 pages), 15 sources, MLA, AU$ 122.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the origins, history and events of the Cold War. This paper examines the economic system differences between the two sides as the primary points of contention, suspicion and conflict. This paper states that, during the Cold War, the Soviet Union was never a match for the United States; the Soviet Union'stechnology and weaponry was a generation behind and, most strikingly, it was influenced heavily and kept in check by the United States itself.
From the Paper
"The Soviet Union propped up communist sympathetic states throughout the world including Cuba, Vietnam and Korea; but these states never developed independent or self-sufficient economies or political structures, unlike the puppet states supported by the United States. In February 1948, a coup toppled the democratically elected leaders of Czechoslovakia?the last of the Eastern European nations to maintain political independence from the Soviet Union. Poland, Hungary, Rumania, Bulgaria, Albania and now Czechoslovakia were absorbed into the Soviet orbit."
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Byzantine Art, 2002.
A discussion of Byzantine art as reflected in modern times.
819 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how even though the society that was Byzantine has faded from the annals of history and gone is the Eastern Empire of the Holy Roman Emperor and his vast influence over the ancient world, the cultural diversity, architectural prowess and masterful artwork of the time remain ingrained into the fabric of our society. It shows how this type of influence is evident in modern times by a city such as New York, considered to be ?cosmopolitan.? Along with worldliness comes an interest in all things aesthetic. The architecture of the Byzantine period distinctly reflects this influence. The glory of Byzantine is not an era bygone, but rather lives at present in modern cultural diversity, architecture and artwork.
From the Paper
"Most may think of luxury automobiles as having a modern futuristic bent, but the simplicity of the outside belies the splendor within. Granted there are no rotundas, pendentives, or cylindrical drums (Byzantine Architecture) present but within there is an abundance of opulence (television screens, highly polished wood paneling, leather, gold accessories etc) designed for paying tribute to the modern gods of money and status. Far fetched? Perhaps, but the suggestiveness and display of grandeur can not be ignored. "
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Byzantium and Rome, 2002.
A comparative analysis of the Byzantine and Roman empires.
1,255 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to analyze why Byzantium survived and Rome fell during approximately the same time period. It evaluates whether the introduction of Christianity to Byzantium and the effort to gain allies as the city grew were two important factors to its success and whether the fall of Rome had to do with its territorial attitude and its lack of morals and values both on individual levels and group levels. The diversity that was included in the city of Byzantium as far as ethnic and cultural traditions went also contributed to the support the city initially received. It concludes that all of these factors combined are what allowed Byzantium to survive as the Roman empire fell.
From the Paper
"When Rome became overcrowded, making it difficult for import and export transports as well as other issues many people moved to outlying areas, but wanted to stay within the familiar confines of what they were used to. The answer was easily found in Byzantium. A new and exciting area that had the foundational building blocks of successful Rome, but also the ability to correct Rome?s pitfalls and problems was found for those who moved to Byzantium. ?The imperial government was centralized and ordered. From the church and emperor to the peasant, ceremonies created a sense of order and stability for the members of Byzantine society."
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Neva Say Never, 2002.
A look at the effects of capitalism on Russia's economy and society.
2,470 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 91.95
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Abstract
The paper provides an overview of Russia's bid to change from a communist to a capitalist economy.The paper discusses how its antiquated infrastructure presents major, but not insurmountable problems for the Russian people and their economy. As the infrastructure improves, the author of the paper believes that there will be more foreign investment and a greater infusion of foreign ideas and technologies. The paper shows that building up the infrastructure is not the only task facing the new Russia. Old ways of thinking frequently get in the way of modern capitalism. The paper examines how centuries of Tsarism, followed by an even more oppressive communism, have inculcated in the minds of the Russian people a distrust for authority, and yet, at the same time, a complete reliance upon it. They have developed a herd mentality, while at the same time each individual tries to be the one antelope who snatches the extra blade of grass. The paper shows how an inefficient regulation and an overly personal political and governmental structure mean that Russia, even after all these years, is still, in the main, a society built upon direct personal bonds. The paper suggests that the Russian Federation has great potential, but first it must move forward into the Twenty-first Century and into the heart of the Western World.
From the Paper
"According to the American steel producers, its Russian counterparts are stuck in a system that is midway between that of a state supported and state run system, and that of a free market economy. Often, Federation steel mills do not have to actually even pay for their supplies. They may simply barter for what they need. Furthermore, financial concerns are wholly different for the Russian manufacturer. Wages, taxes, and even suppliers? bills frequently go unpaid, and in spite of all this, there is little fear of bankruptcy. All of this is just the normal Russian way of doing business, an inheritance of more than sixty years of hard-line communism. One might call it the ?lazy? faire way of doing business. With no profit motive, and no competitive impetus, Russian manufacturers operated solely under the guidelines of government bureaucrats."
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Albanian Refugees from Kosovo, 2002.
A paper which traces the immigration movement of the Albanian minorities from Kosovo.
1,205 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the Albanians of Kosovo were forced to partake in a mass migration move due to the dramatic rise in the degree of ethnic animosity and violence in the region, threatening the very existence of minorities, Albanians as well as others. The paper explores the reasons behind the sudden increase in Albanians seeking to leave Kosovo, including the role which NATO's attacks on the region played in their leaving. Finally, the paper examines why Switzerland became the Albanians' chosen immigration destination.
From the Paper
"The best thing about the Swiss policy in regard to refugees is that they?re virtually no degree of discrimination in accordance to the manner, in which the refugees are treated in all aspects, this being apparent in light of the fact that once they cross the age of 16, all refugees are given a sum of CHF 3,250 [EUR 2,101] in order to attend language courses provided by private organizations. ? Furthermore, there are no restrictions implemented upon the refugees in terms of work, education, social welfare and citizenship too, the criteria for refugees being virtually the same as the one applying to citizens; A refugee who has been resident in Switzerland for at least 12 years may apply for Swiss citizenship."
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Jurek Becker?s ?Jakob the Liar?, 2002.
This paper discusses the role of the radio in Jurek Becker?s ?Jakob the Liar?, a Holocaust novel.
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 1 source, AU$ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper describes Becker?s novel ?Jakob the Liar?: Jakob, a Polish Jew in the Ghetto, finds himself a neighborhood hero by fabricating reports from his imaginary radio. The paper illustrate that the radio may not be real, but the impact Jakob?s radio reports have on the community is real: The inhabitants of this ghetto community now have a sense of hope as they are told of "reports" that the armies are coming to save them. The paper author feels that Becker?s use of the imaginary radio brings the reader into the reality of living in Jakob?s ghetto.
From the Paper
"In the case of Jakob and Lina, the radio brings these two people closer together. When Jakob ?plays? the radio for Lina, it is a moment that draws them closer and one of sincere comedy. These were bleak times, and the radio essentially brings hope and happiness to a neighborhood that faces the inevitable. These moments happen often within the first half of the novel, as the radio reports are a ray of light. "
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Survival of the Fittest, 2002.
A paper on the status of the economy of the former Communist nations working to survive in a free market economy.
1,387 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the current economic state of Eastern European countries as they emerge from Communism into free market economic systems. It shows the hurdles facing these economies as they struggle to grow - from corrupt leaders to broken down legal systems, from the lack of infrastructure to limited resources. This paper looks at these problems and asks what can be done to solve them.
From the Paper
"A few years after the collapse of the USSR the market began to emerge with vigor as inflation lowered and the rouble saw some semblance of stabilization. As living standards rose, it was assumed that the problems were over. The boom soon became invisible as in August 1998 the financial crisis created a national debt causing the rouble to become merely a quarter of its former value. Capitalists predicted the worst as the falling rouble caused the domestic productivity to increase and again the nation felt hope. Yet, past record has shown that the former communist economic conditions are worse than they seem. (Aslund, 2002)"
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