Transition to a market economy is a lengthy process comprised of various spheres of economic activities. The naive belief that a market economy can be introduced by "shock therapy" is wrong, and in several cases, when attempted, has caused more problems than it has solved. Because a market economy requires adequate institutional structures and an appropriate behavior, transition can be executed only in a gradual manner, since these are very gradual processes based upon new organizations, new laws, and the changing behavior of various economic entities. In 1989, influential financial organizations, political bodies, and professional economists seemed to agree upon main points for economic policy reform. This was termed the Washington consensus. Despite the fact that the economic policy of the Washington consensus was initially developed without any concern for post-socialist transformation, it has happened that these ideas have significantly influenced the path of thought and action in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Because these policies were not intended for the overhaul of post-socialist countries, however, they have failed. A new, post-Washington consensus is developing, as it should, based on the lessons learned from experience thus far. Some major policy conclusions can be drawn: First, institutional arrangements are the most important factor for progress toward durable growth. Second, policy must recognize that institution building by its nature must be a gradual process. Third, policy makers must acknowledge that the size of the government is less important than the quality of its policy and the manner of the changes of government dimension. Fourth, if institutional arrangement is neglected and left to the spontaneous processes and unleashed forces of liberalized markets, then informal institutionalization fills the systemic vacuum. Fifth, in transition economies' policies must transform and streamline the judiciary system to serve the market economy. Sixth, a shift of competence and power from the central government to local governments is necessary for deregulation of the post-socialist economy. Seventh, there is an urgent necessity to accelerate the development of non-government organizations. Eight, during transition income policy and government concern for equitable growth has great meaning. Ninth, short-term capital liberalization must be monitored and controlled by the countries' fiscal and monetary authorities with the support of international financial institutions. Tenth, the Bretton Woods organizations should reconsider their policies toward transition economies aiming at institutional building and support for equitable growth.

"This exceptionally strong collection is the best single book yet to appear on the reform process in the postsocialist economies. Although it will primarily interest economists, it is also accessible to students of political science." - P. Rutland, Choice Transition and Growth in Post-Communist Countries documents the first ten years of economic transition in Central and Eastern Europe. It examines economic growth, stabilization policies and the reformation of social safety nets in the formerly communist countries. The analysis is presented by prominent architects of the economic transition who have been directly involved in both designing and implementing the programme of economic reforms. Using theoretical and empirical analyses the volume concludes that the countries which have successfully implemented major programmes of macroeconomic stabilization and institutional restructuring have experienced a much faster growth of national income and wealth than the non-reformers. This authoritative volume will be compelling reading to those interested in emerging market economies, the economics of transition, and international political economy. Researchers, lecturers and students of international macroeconomics and international political relations will also find the book useful. Contents: Preface Part I: Uneven Reforms - Unbalanced Growth Part II: Financial Openness and Approaches to Monetary Integration Part III: Reforming Social Safety Nets Part IV: Political Challenges of Transition Index Contributors: N. Barr, L. Bokros, A. Bratkowski, M. Dabrowski, M. Dmitriev, S. Fischer, S. Golinowska, S. Gomulka, D. Gros, D. Lipton, L.T. Orlowski, J. Rostowski, M. Rutowski, R. Sahay, V. Schmähl, M. Suhrcke, A.M. Warner, S. Wellisz.

This interdisciplinary study offers a comprehensive analysis of the transition economies of Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Providing full historical context and drawing on a wide range of literature, this book explores the continuous economic and social transformation of the post-socialist world. While the future is yet to be determined, understanding the present phase of transformation is critical. The book’s core exploration evolves along three pivots of competitive economic structure, institutional change, and social welfare. The main elements include analysis of the emergence of the socialist economic model; its adaptations through the twentieth century; discussion of the 1990s market transition reforms; post-2008 crisis development; and the social and economic diversity in the region today. With an appreciation for country specifics, the book also considers the urgent problems of social policy, poverty, income inequality, and labor migration. Transition Economies will aid students, researchers and policy makers working on the problems of comparative economics, economic development, economic history, economic systems transition, international political economy, as well as specialists in post-Soviet and Central and Eastern European regional studies.

"This edited collection is a contribution to the emerging field of oral history research in the post-socialist societies of Central Europe and former Soviet Union, and demonstrates what oral history can contribute to the changing nature of post-socialist social sciences."--

Introduction: Transition from communism - qualified success or utter catastrophe? -- The plan for a J-curve transition -- Plan meets reality -- Modifying the framework -- Counter-narratives of catastrophe -- Where have all the people gone? -- The mortality crisis -- Collapse in fertility -- Outmigration crisis -- Disappointment with transition -- Public opinion of winners and losers -- Evaluations shift over time -- Towards a new social contract? -- Portraits of desperation -- Resistance is futile -- Return to the past -- The patriotism of despair -- Conclusion: Towards an inclusive prosperity.