The aim of this project is to examine the development of governing systems in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. First, to review the old systems of Soviet Republics consisting of “popularly elected” assemblies. Secondly, to describe and analyze the new constitutional framework, where representation and elections are based on national citizenship. To what degree the declarations of independence will lead to independent nation-states is a question that will be examined. Another issue will be the scope and character of government activity. The third will be how authorities and tasks are allocated among newly established organs and institutions.

The main subject of this project will be parliament’s role and function in the respective governing systems. The direct goal of the project will be to acquire knowledge of and develop insight onto the political reality in the Baltic States, so that it can be understood and compared with known conditions in the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe.

The project is part of a larger collaboration between the University of Oslo and universities in Tartu, Estonia, Riga, Latvia and Vilnius, Lithuania.