This book examines the democratic changes that took place in civil society in Central and Eastern Europe after the break up of the Soviet Union.

A particular feature of the book is concerned with restructuring and change in Eastern Europe, particularly emphasising financial questions. An essential book for students and researchers in politics, geography, government and European studies.

This work on local government in Eastern Europe is part of the series dealing with Communism in transition. The political structures and processes that now affect the functioning of local government in Eastern Europe are analyzed.

Drawing on classical and emerging research perspectives, this comprehensive book provides an up-to-date review of local government in Europe. Featuring an impressive range of contributors from both eastern and western Europe, the book addresses three main topics: territorial reforms, democratic empowerment of citizens and the role of local leadership, as well as new trends in local finances. Acknowledging their inherent diversity, the book examines the ways that local governments have responded to shared challenges, such as climate change, increasing populism and democratic deficit in order to identify both the variety and communalities between the country-specific features. In doing so, it provides a rich picture of the latest trends in local government, as well as pointing the way for future developments.