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Politics and Economy of Central Europe
Course Information
Lecturers:
Dr. Pavel Pšeja
Pavel.pseja@cevro.cz
Dr. Martina Krásnická
Martina.krasnicka@cevro.cz
Course Description
This course is based on comparative approach towards recent political and economic developments in
countries of (primarily, but not exclusively) the Visegrad Four, i.e. in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland
and Hungary. Following general discussions of what the notion of Central Europe means and how we
can understand it, the course will elaborate historical, economic, and social issues shaping the region
identified as Central Europe. After historical considerations are taken into account, the region as a whole
is put under scrutiny, beginning with the ways from communism through economic transformation and
regional attempts at integration, up to the accession procedures regarding EU and NATO. Finally,
economic, political, and social issues in all four countries will be presented, with topics like foreign
policies, development of major cleavages in respective societies, development of party systems,
institutional arrangements etc. constituting the final segment of the course.
Course Requirements:
As the sessions are generally conceived as composite ones, i.e. including lecture and seminar students are
expected to take regular and especially active part in the course. Their ability to enter into discussions is
seen as one of the most important prerequisites to gain the credits. Moreover, to earn full credits two
oral presentations and two final papers are necessary (one set from the Politics of Central Europe and
another one from the Economy of Central Europe). Students are also asked to read assigned readings in
advance, so that they can get the necessary background for respective sessions and discussions of
important issues. Details of all assignments are to be presented in advance.
Oral presentations: Students are expected to make an oral presentation on an issue related to the topics
assigned in advance, the presentation should last at least 20 minutes. A good presentation must give a
clear outline of the topic in question, highlight most important points and critiques, and offer issues for
further discussion.
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Essay - Politics of Central Europe: The essay must have app. 10 pages (i.e. app. 18 000 characters incl.
dashes; accepted divergence 15 %), and must be structured and coherent. Choice of the topic must be in
accordance with the issues presented in the syllabus and must be consulted with a lecturer before the
work on the paper is launched. The paper must follow common citation standards and include the list of
referenced literature (the list will be carefully scrutinized by the lecturers if it is correct, and the works
listed are really used in the text). Deadline to submit the paper is May 31st
, the papers are to be uploaded
in IS (Homework Vault).
Essay - Economy of Central Europe:
General instructions for essays:
When writing essays, start by looking at current data from reliable sources like "Our World in Data."
Include details about how things are defined, measured, and how good the data is (definitions,
measurements, data quality). Also, do some of your own research using sites like Google Scholar and
JSTOR. Check information from places like Wikipedia and use AI to spot any wrong answers. Emphasize
the economic aspects of your topic. Think about what else you could look into, like making new charts
or using different ways to measure things. Finish with a short summary, and list your sources properly at
the end. Your essay should be approximately 10 pages long.
Grading
The final grade will be calculated as a composite evaluation consisting of:
25 points from the Politics of Central Europe:
10 points – presentation
10 points – essay
5 points – active participation in the class discussions
25 points from the Economy of Central Europe:
13 points - essay (5) + presentation (5) + reaction to reviews (3)
3 points – attendance in class (0,5/each class)
6 points - feedback to someone else’s presentation (1 point/each review)
3 points - other assignments (Quizzes, home assignments)
Final grade:
(A) - 42,5-50 points
(B) - 37,5-42 points
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(C)- 33,5-37 points
(D)- 29,5-33 points
(E) - 25,5-29 points
Class Schedule
1. Introduction into the Class + Notion of Central Europe (Feb 12_dr. Pšeja)
Lecture: The term “Central Europe” will be discussed in some depth, especially with regard to different
cultural, political and social interpretations of the area. The lecture aims at explaining specific features of
Central European culture and identity, thus giving particular background to further discussions in classes.
Students will be invited to express their own opinions on the phenomenon and find out what common
features are to be found to give the region full-blown characteristics.
Assigned readings:
Batt, Judy (2003), “Introduction: Defining Central and Eastern Europe”, in Batt, Judy, Lewis, Paul G.,
White, Stephen (eds.), Developments in Central and East European Politics 3, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke,
pp. 3-22
Johnson, Lonnie R. (2002): Central Europe: Enemies, Neighbors, Friends, 2nd
edition, Oxford University Press,
Oxford, pp. 3-12.
Wandycz, Piotr S. (2001): The Price of Freedom: A history of East Central Europe from the Middle Ages to the
present, 2nd
edition, Routledge, London, pp. 1-11.
2. Introduction to Economy of Central Europe, Case study: Decision-Making Powers of CE
Countries Within the EU (Feb 19_dr. Krásnická)
General introduction – basic information about the logic, structure, and objectives of the economic part
of the course, and formal features of the course will be presented. Moreover, we will discuss the
assignments, in what way they should be handled, and how they will be distributed among the students.
Introduction to Central Europe, Case study: Decision-Making Powers of CE Countries Within
the EU.
Central European countries play a crucial role within the European Union, with their decision-making
powers reflecting their diverse interests and priorities. This case study delves into how Central European
nations influence EU decision-making processes, considering factors such as economic development
and/or rule of law. By examining the dynamics of decision-making within the EU framework, insights
emerge into the complexities of Central Europe's relationship with the broader European Union.
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Understanding these dynamics is essential for comprehending the evolving role and influence of Central
European countries in shaping EU policies and initiatives.
No assigned readings.
3. Central Europe: Global and European Trade Relations and Economic Partnerships (Feb
26_dr. Krásnická)
Immediately after democratic changes taking place in 1989, and in some cases even before that date,
Central Europe witnessed a rising trend to organize a regional co-operation based on common political
and social experience, and focused on enhancing economic and security position of respective countries,
as well as on promoting their interests in relation to the European Union. The major attempts at such a
co-operation, like Quadragonale, Visegrad Group and CEFTA present most comprehensive and
successful examples of Central European co-operation that helped to shape politics (and policies) of
respective countries. Nowadays Central Europe participates actively in global and European trade
relations, engaging in various partnerships and agreements.
Assigned readings:
In MS Teams
4. Economic Transformations in Central Europe: From Planned to Market Economies (Mar
5_dr. Krásnická)
This topic covers the economic transformations in Central Europe, tracing the shift from planned to
market economies. Students will explore the historical context and factors driving this transition,
including economic reforms. The syllabus delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by Central
European countries during this transformation process. Key topics include privatization, deregulation,
and the role of international institutions such as the IMF and World Bank. Through case studies and
analysis, students will gain insights into the complexities of economic transition and its impact on Central
Europe's socio-economic landscape.
Assigned readings:
In MS Teams
5. History of Central Europe and the Ends of Communism: Political Aspects of the Regime
Changes (March 12_dr. Pšeja)
Lecture and seminar: Although the major focus will be on the 20th
century, histories of Central European
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nations can be traced back through many centuries. In this session, drawing upon the fact contemporary
Central European politics can only be in many cases understood if seen through lenses of both ancient
and recent historical experience, the most important events and processes from Middle Ages to the 20th
century will be discussed, thus setting the ground for more deeply rooted knowledge of Central European
states and peoples. In the latter part of the session, we will deal with the period of communism. Even
when communism has always presented itself as a coherent ideology, in practice it tended to acquire
various forms. In Central European countries we can witness how these differences contributed to
finding various ways from communism and towards democratic transition. Specifically, we will focus
upon the comparison of developments resulting in democratic changes in Czechoslovakia, Poland and
Hungary, thus highlighting bases for future political and social processes in these countries.
Assigned readings:
Johnson, Lonnie R. (2002): Central Europe: Enemies, Neighbors, Friends, 2nd
edition, Oxford University Press,
Oxford, pp. 223-274.
Wandycz, Piotr S. (2001): The Price of Freedom: A history of East Central Europe from the Middle Ages to the
present, 2nd
edition, Routledge, London, pp. 201-235.
Rothschild, Joseph, Wingfield, Nancy M. (2000): Return to Diversity: A Political History of East Central Europe
since World War II, 3rd
edition, Oxford University Press, Oxford, pp. 227-245.
Staniszkis, Jadwiga (1999): Post-Communism: the Emerging Enigma, Institute of Political Studies, Polish
Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, pp. 29-68.
6. Joining the EU and Its Impact On National Economy, Monetary and Economic Policies
(March 19_dr. Krásnická)
The syllabus examines the process of joining the European Union and its repercussions on national
economies. Students will analyze the economic, monetary, and policy implications of EU accession for
member states. Topics include the adoption of the euro, compliance with EU regulations, and the impact
on fiscal policies. Case studies will illuminate the diverse experiences of countries in Central Europe
following their accession to the EU. Through critical evaluation, students will assess the benefits and
challenges associated with EU membership and its influence on national economic strategies.
Assigned readings:
In MS Teams
7. Economic and Legal Aspects of Specific Policies in Central Europe (Industry, Environment,
Energy, Digitalisation) (March 26_dr. Krásnická)
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The topic explores the economic and legal dimensions of specific policies in Central Europe, focusing
on industry, environment energy sectors etc.. Students will analyze the implementation and impact of
these policies on regional economies and ecosystems. Through critical examination, the effectiveness and
challenges of these measures will be evaluated.
Assigned readings:
In MS Teams
8. Central European states and their relationships to EU and NATO (April 2_dr.Pšeja)
Lecture and seminar: To a big degree, all Central European countries permanently strived to become
members of originally West European structures, notably EU and NATO. However, individual journeys
to these aims differed, as the case of Slovakia and NATO makes it clear. In this session, journeys and
strategies of Central European countries, while going through the process of accession to EU and
NATO, are to be followed.
Assigned readings:
Asmus, Ronald D. (2002): Opening NATO's Door. How the Alliance Remade Itself for a New Era. Columbia
University Press, New York, pp. 212-305. Note: Not all the pages are necessary to read, you just
can pick up information of the biggest interest.
Haughton, Tim (2007): “When Does the EU Make a Difference? Conditionality and the Accession
Process in Central and Eastern Europe”, Political Studies Review, Vol. 5, No. 2, pp. 233-246.
Schmitt, G. J. (2016): Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic: The Security Record of “New Europe”. American
Enterprise Institute. http://www.jstor.com/stable/resrep03262
9. Geoeconomics, Economic Security: Specifics of Central Europe (April 9_dr. Krásnická)
The topic focuses on geoeconomics and economic security, with a focus on Central Europe's unique
characteristics. The region's geopolitical position and its implications for economic strategies and security
measures will be explored. Key topics include energy dependency, trade routes, and regional alliances
shaping Central Europe's economic landscape. Case studies will highlight the interplay between economic
interests, security concerns, and foreign policy objectives in the region. Through analysis and discussion,
students will gain insights into the complexities of economic security in Central Europe and its impact
on global dynamics.
Assigned readings:
In MS Teams
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10. Czechoslovakia and Czech Republic (April 16_dr. Pšeja)
Lecture and seminar: Czechoslovakia did not last long after the regime change but at the same time it
does constitute a unique example of peaceful dissolution of a country. In this session, we will first discuss
the post-communist transformation of Czechoslovakia and the events leading up to its dissolution, then
switching to one of its successors, the Czech Republic. Issues like features and workings of the party
system, characteristics of political system, and some major points of political and social controversy will
be discussed.
Assigned readings:
Mansfeldova, Zdenka (2006): “The Czech Republic: critical democrats and the persistence of democratic
values”, in Klingemann, Hans-Dieter, Fuchs, Dieter, Zielonka, Jan (eds.), Democracy and Political Culture in
Eastern Europe, Routledge, Abingdon, pp. 101-118.
11. Slovakia and Hungary (Apr 23_dr. Pšeja)
Lecture and seminar: Following the same structure as presented in session 14 (Czech Republic), we will
put emphasis on issues specific to the Slovak and, respectively, Hungarian political developments. In the
Slovak case, we will also pay attention to national issues (relations to Hungarian minority), while in the
case of Hungary we will also discuss recent democratic backsliding.
Assigned readings:
Haerpfer, Christian W. (2006): “Hungary: structure and dynamics of democratic consolidation”, in
Klingemann, Hans-Dieter, Fuchs, Dieter, Zielonka, Jan (eds.), Democracy and Political Culture in Eastern
Europe, Routledge, Abingdon, pp. 148-171.
Mihalikova, Silvia (2006): “Slovakia: pathways to a democratic community”, in Klingemann, Hans-Dieter,
Fuchs, Dieter, Zielonka, Jan (eds.), Democracy and Political Culture in Eastern Europe, Routledge, Abingdon,
pp. 172-202.
12. Poland and cross-regional comparison (Apr 30_dr.Pšeja)
Lecture and seminar: Again, following the same structure as presented in session 14 (Czech Republic),
we will put emphasis on issues specific to Polish political developments, namely on peculiar structure of
the party system, role of Catholic church, and ambiguous position towards the European integration.
Subsequently, we will discuss whether (and if so, then which ones) there are any relevant similarities
across four Visegrad countries dealt with in this class, and will try to identify long-term processes shaping
politics and society in these countries.
Assigned readings:
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Siemienska, Renata (2006): “Poland: citizens and democratic politics”, in Klingemann, Hans-Dieter,
Fuchs, Dieter, Zielonka, Jan (eds.), Democracy and Political Culture in Eastern Europe, Routledge, Abingdon,
pp. 203-234.