The class examines former Soviet states' relations with each other as well as with other states. We will then discuss how to think about the region in theoretical terms. The focus of the rest of the quarter is on understanding the international security and economic dilemmas facing the new states and how the US, other states, and international institutions affect the choices states make. You will be introduced to some major theoretical perspectives and then asked to use these to analyze a topic of interest in the region. Via an internet news service, you will follow current events in the region.
All readings are on reserve in the library.
Karen Dawisha, ed. The International Dimension of Post-communist Transitions in Russia and the New States of Eurasia. M.E. Sharpe, 1997. A Guide to the Republics of the Former Soviet Union. URPS will sell the readers outside the classroom during the first two weeks of the quarter.