Search

How can a signal of extended deterrence, such as prepositioning of foreign military forces, signify status for the beneficiaries of the allied deterrence/reassurance chain? This article explores how the manifestation and communication of allied deterrence can concurrently constitute an affectively charged status symbol for the protégé states of this international security practice. It does so on the example of the Baltic states and Poland, probing the presence and functionality of the American forces as a status marker in North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)'s eastern flank states after 2014. Engaging discourse analysis and expert interviews, the article shows (1) how the intersubjectively determined success of deterrence is dependent on historically potent symbols which have become emblematic of extended deterrence and (2) how deterrence icons can simultaneously serve as multifarious status symbols in intra-alliance politics. The self-identification of protégé states as worthy stakes to deter over emerges as an ambivalent status position defined by the shortage of attributes, rather than a function of their tally. The article contributes to the understanding of the symbolic form of (allied) deterrence and the multivocal status value ascribed to the American 'boots on the ground'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores how museum professionals in the Baltic countries perceive the value of museums in society. Based on an online survey conducted in 2022, the analysis reveals differing viewpoints among professionals from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Lithuanian respondents are optimistic about the impact of new museology practices on enhancing museums’ relevance and public image. In contrast, while critical of the neglect of scientific work, Estonian professionals have embraced the instrumentalist discourse. Latvian respondents are more sceptical about the positive valuation of museums in society and doubtful about strengthening it. Critical indicators of museum valuation, such as local government recognition, wages, and societal awareness of museum work, were highlighted. The findings suggest that while new museum practices are generally welcomed, their perceived value varies across the Baltic states, shaped by national cultural policies and historical contexts. Finally, the article identifies the key paradoxes within the tensions surrounding (Baltic) museum value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of energy efficiency (EE) and growing consumption of renewable energy sources (RES) in the commercial and public services sector are playing important roles in seeking to pursue sustainable development in the Baltic States and contributing to the transition to a low-carbon economy. This paper provides findings from a detailed analysis of energy intensity trends in economic sectors from 2005 to 2022 in three countries, considering the role of transformations in the energy and climate framework of the European Union (EU). Based on the Fisher Ideal Index application, the different contributions from improving EE and structural changes are revealed. The dominant role of EE improvements in energy savings is identified in Estonia and Lithuania, and structural changes are dominant in Latvia. Changes in energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the commercial and public services sector and the main determinants of their reduction are examined. Based on applying the Kaya identity and the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) method, decreasing energy intensity is the most important determinant in all three countries. Due to the different extents of RES deployment, their role was very important in Estonia and Latia but was less effective in Lithuania. Reduction in emission intensity has the largest impact in Latvia. The GHG emissions decreased by 34.1% in Estonia, 17.5% in Latvia, and 16.7% in Lithuania. The results confirm the need for new policies, implementation of relevant EE measures, and the growing contribution from RES in Latvia and Lithuania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy is often described as the lifeblood of a nation's economy, and the world energy trilemma calls for collaboration and innovative solutions at the national level. This is where Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) plays a crucial role, helping integrate the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while addressing the challenges posed by the energy trilemma. Europe's strong commitment to transitioning to sustainable energy is evident in its response to geopolitical changes and climate targets. Notably, the Baltic States have taken decisive action in response to the war in Ukraine, choosing to completely halt electricity imports from Russia and Belarus. This shift was supported by increased energy imports via interconnectors from Finland, Sweden, and Poland, with electricity imports rising to 13,053 GWh—an increase of 2.6% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Latvia, which holds the highest green energy potential in the Baltic Sea region, has nevertheless lagged behind its Baltic counterparts in terms of implementation. In 2021, Latvia ranked third among European Union (EU) countries for renewable energy share in final energy consumption, with 42.1%, significantly higher than the EU average of 21.8%. However, further progress is needed to meet Latvia's 2030 target of 14% renewable energy use in transport. The Baltic States aim to produce 98–100% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2050. The Baltic States should be regarded as a unified energy system, with a coordinated strategy for achieving sustainable energy development through collaboration and joint planning. This analysis highlights the complexities of managing energy markets amidst global and regional challenges, emphasizing the importance of well-designed public interventions to secure long-term benefits. The study concludes with a call for enhanced interagency cooperation to reform ESD and create a new interdisciplinary sector dedicated to "Sustainable Development". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study examines the interplay between stakeholder pressure (internal and external), circular economy (CE) practices, firm size, and their impact on the sustainability and economic performance of Small and Medium sized Enterprises. This research underscores firm size as a key moderator in the relationship between stakeholder pressures and CE adoption, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic in SMEs. METHODOLOGY: Based on a cross-sectional survey of 124 SMEs in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, with respondents primarily being owners and managers of firms, a three-step approach tested the proposed model for CE practices. First, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to ensure that the observed variables represented latent constructs. Second, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Weighted Least Squares (WLS) regression methods were used to control for factors influencing CE adoption. Finally, the interaction terms assessed the moderating role of firm size. FINDINGS: The research shows that firm size moderates these effects, with external stakeholder pressure significantly influencing CE adoption more than internal pressure. These finding underscores how firm size shapes SMEs’ responses to stakeholder pressure when adopting CE practices. IMPLICATIONS: This study provides empirical evidence that stakeholder pressure significantly influences SMEs in the Baltic States to adopt CE practices, thus impacting economic and sustainability performance. Smaller firms can enhance CE practices by strategically managing stakeholders, whereas larger SMEs should align with external stakeholder expectations for more effective CE initiatives, leading to improved organizational performance. ORIGINALITY AND VALUE: This study demonstrates how stakeholder pressures drive CE practices and impact organizational sustainability and economic performance. Firm size plays a crucial role as a moderator amplifying the influence of external stakeholder pressure on CE practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study examines the interplay between stakeholder pressure (internal and external), circular economy (CE) practices, firm size, and their impact on the sustainability and economic performance of Small and Medium sized Enterprises. This research underscores firm size as a key moderator in the relationship between stakeholder pressures and CE adoption, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic in SMEs. METHODOLOGY: Based on a cross-sectional survey of 124 SMEs in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, with respondents primarily being owners and managers of firms, a three-step approach tested the proposed model for CE practices. First, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to ensure that the observed variables represented latent constructs. Second, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Weighted Least Squares (WLS) regression methods were used to control for factors influencing CE adoption. Finally, the interaction terms assessed the moderating role of firm size. FINDINGS: The research shows that firm size moderates these effects, with external stakeholder pressure significantly influencing CE adoption more than internal pressure. These finding underscores how firm size shapes SMEs’ responses to stakeholder pressure when adopting CE practices. IMPLICATIONS: This study provides empirical evidence that stakeholder pressure significantly influences SMEs in the Baltic States to adopt CE practices, thus impacting economic and sustainability performance. Smaller firms can enhance CE practices by strategically managing stakeholders, whereas larger SMEs should align with external stakeholder expectations for more effective CE initiatives, leading to improved organizational performance. ORIGINALITY AND VALUE: This study demonstrates how stakeholder pressures drive CE practices and impact organizational sustainability and economic performance. Firm size plays a crucial role as a moderator amplifying the influence of external stakeholder pressure on CE practices.

The article discusses some problems of energy supply of the Baltic republics with electricity after their accession to the European Union. The policy of Brussels aimed at curtailing energy cooperation between the Baltic States and Russia and Belarus is analyzed. The calculations of the investment costs incurred by the Baltic countries as a result of disconnection from the Russian and Belarusian power grids and synchronization of electricity flows with the EU countries are given. Other negative consequences of this act for the Baltic region, which await it after leaving the BRELL electric ring, are shown. Such consequences include the instability of electricity supply to the population, enterprises and organizations in the region, as well as an increase in prices for consumed electricity.

The article offers a unique and comprehensive reflection on the 20-year membership of the Baltic states — Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania — in the European Union (EU), highlighting the multifaceted impacts of their integration across the political, economic, and societal spheres. The novelty of this paper lies in its holistic approach to the Baltic states’ evolution from new EU members to proactive leaders. Politically, the Baltic states have transitioned from passive participants to influential actors, particularly in response to regional security challenges, such as the Russian threat. Economically, their adoption of the euro and integration into the Schengen Area have bolstered their stability and growth within the EU’s single market. Societally, EU membership has reinforced democratic values and human rights, marking a clear departure from Soviet-era influences. This focus on the small states as proactive agents in shaping EU policy, rather than merely beneficiaries of EU membership, offers a fresh perspective on their contributions to the EU’s development over the past two decades. The article brings valuable insights into the broader discourse on EU enlargement and the future trajectory of the European project.

Anti-Russian sanctions have turned into a serious challenge for the economy and social model of the countries of the Baltic-Scandinavian macroregion, which includes the Baltic states. Higher prices for food and basic services, electricity bills, increased mortgage rates and rents have reduced the standard of living and quality of life of a significant part of the population of the Baltic states. Rising cost of living, poverty and social exclusion have become the most significant problems for the population in recent years. A sharp jump in inflation at the turn of the 2020s has led to a deeper cost of living crisis than the European Union average. This is evidenced by the statistical data reviewed by the author, studies by domestic and Western economists, and public opinion polls. The analysis of the dynamics of socio-economic development of the Baltic States, conducted in order to assess the prospects for the further course of the relevant processes in the region, has shown that socio-economic transformations in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were regressive, uneven not only in the country context, but also differed significantly depending on the characteristics of households within the countries. The difference in the level of cost-of-living inflation for the poorest and richest households has increased in recent years. The economic and political spaces of the Baltic states, against the background of high inflation and close to stagnation GDP growth rates, nevertheless demonstrated different results in terms of certain socio-economic parameters, which is largely due to the difference in the provision of their own energy resources and measures taken at the national level to mitigate the crisis phenomena.

The main purpose of the article is to analyse the issue of Ukraine's accession to the European Union in the political discourse of the Visegrad Group and Baltic states' leaders and its impact on the transformation of the EU foreign policy agenda. Based on the analysis of selected speeches delivered by heads of states and governments of the above-mentioned countries, the authors focus on explaining their vision on the need to reform the EU's foreign policy in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Particular attention is paid to the issue of future EU enlargement in the context of Ukraine's potential accession. Furthermore, the research concentrates on the reflection of the proposed vision in the official position of the EU institutions. By doing so, an attempt is made so as to answer the research question on the transformational potential of Central European and Baltic states' leaders in the decision- making process on the EU foreign policy reform.

True sawflies (Tenthredinoidea) have a substantial fossil record but are rarely encountered in Eocene ambers. Here we describe three new taxa in this superfamily from late Eocene ambers. †Rovnotaxonus aristovi gen. et sp. nov. is the first true sawfly reported from Rovno amber. Based primarily on characters in the fore wing venation, we assign the new taxon to Tenthredinidae: Allantinae: Allantini. We also describe two new species of Diprionidae from Baltic amber: †Eodiprion pectinatus sp. nov. from a female specimen and †Monodiprion gladius gen. et sp. nov. from a male previously reported as †Eodiprion sp. by Schedl (2008); we redescribe †Eodiprion Schedl, 2007 and provide emended diagnoses of the genus and of †Eodiprion groehni Schedl, 2007. We integrate all these fossils as well as †Sambia Vilhelmsen and Engel, 2012 (Tenthredinidae: Tenthredininae) previously described from Baltic amber in a combined data set assembled from previously published morphological and molecular data sets. We analyse the combined data set in a Bayesian framework and implement RoguePlots to evaluate the positions of the fossils. The diprionid fossils are unequivocally placed inside Diprionidae, in a polytomy with extant members of Diprioninae; the Monocteninae, the other subfamily currently recognized in the family, is not retrieved as monophyletic. †Rovnotaxonus is placed inside Allantinae and shares some characters with Taxonus. †Sambia is placed near the base of Tenthredininae. The evaluation of the phylogenetic position of the fossils treated here will make them available for future dating analyses of Tenthredinoidea, helping to further elucidate the evolutionary history of this significant lineage of herbivorous insects. Possible reasons for the comparatively low abundance of true sawflies in late Eocene ambers are discussed. . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers a unique and comprehensive reflection on the 20-year membership of the Baltic states - Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania - in the European Union (EU), highlighting the multifaceted impacts of their integration across the political, economic, and societal spheres. The novelty of this paper lies in its holistic approach to the Baltic states' evolution from new EU members to proactive leaders. Politically, the Baltic states have transitioned from passive participants to influential actors, particularly in response to regional security challenges, such as the Russian threat. Economically, their adoption of the euro and integration into the Schengen Area have bolstered their stability and growth within the EU's single market. Societally, EU membership has reinforced democratic values and human rights, marking a clear departure from Soviet-era influences. This focus on the small states as proactive agents in shaping EU policy, rather than merely beneficiaries of EU membership, offers a fresh perspective on their contributions to the EU's development over the past two decades. The article brings valuable insights into the broader discourse on EU enlargement and the future trajectory of the European project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Baltic states, positioned as a conduit between Eastern and Western Europe, possess considerable geopolitical importance for numerous nations globally, including India. India views the Baltic states as a strategic entry point to Western and Northern Europe, offering significant opportunities to strengthen India’s ties with the Eastern and Northern European regions. The looming China threat for India and the Baltic states and the growing concentration of power in the Indo-Pacific region have also heightened India’s significance for the Baltic states. In the aforementioned framework, the significance of the relations between India and the Baltic states is underscored by cultural affinity and exchange, geopolitical importance and mutual respect. The connections between India and the Baltic states are driven by three fundamental elements: the political, social and economic. This study will analyse the three key components and the changing dynamics between India and the Baltic states since the resurgence of the Baltic states. This study also explores further avenues for collaboration to enhance India’s involvement with the Baltic states, as well as how the imminent risk of China is compelling India and the Baltic states to forge a closer partnership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the role of geopolitics, including armed conflict, in family farming. Drawing on critical approaches to geopolitics in geography and anthropology, we situate the dynamics of family farming in the context of multiscalar struggles over territory and political sovereignty. Our historically and geographically situated approach shows how geopolitical positionality engenders vulnerabilities as well as political potential for alternative development by shaping labor and gender dynamics in farming households. Empirically, our research provides an illustrative example of the Baltic states, especially Latvia and Lithuania, which have been situated within geopolitical fault lines for centuries. Focusing on four different historical periods, we demonstrate how the dynamics of family farming in the Baltic states—characterized by the persistence of smallholder family farms and specific land ownership patterns with women owning almost half of farms—are partly a result of the multiscalar geopolitics manifesting itself in violent colonial histories. Our analysis also reveals how various geopolitical power interplays in borderlands can lead to devastating consequences, while simultaneously creating pathways for alternatives to the capital-intensive, environmentally destructive, and socially exploitative corporate food regime. Overall, our research underscores the complex ways in which geopolitical (in)security undergirds labor and gender in farming households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The governance of energy systems is undergoing a transformative shift, vital to advancing the energy transition. Understanding the dynamics of energy citizenship and the factors that influence citizen engagement in energy matters is critical for driving social and institutional change. This paper informs on the key results of a comprehensive analysis of 54 energy citizenship cases in the Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania). The study explores the role of citizens in the energy transition and characterizes the socio-economic and geopolitical factors shaping energy citizenship activities in the region. The governance of energy systems represents a significant transformational shift that is essential for energy transition. A more comprehensive understanding of the current state of energy citizenship and the factors influencing the energy transition process could inform the social and institutional changes necessary for the involvement of citizens in energy matters. This desk study represents a crucial element of the EU Horizon 2000 EnergyPROSPECTS project, which aims to map the landscape of energy citizenship in Europe. This paper presents an in-depth analysis of 54 cases from the Baltic states. The findings provide insight into the role of citizens in the transition process and the underlying factors and conditions that shape energy citizenship activities within the specific socio-economic and geopolitical context of the region. In general, energy citizenship in the Baltic states can be seen to exist on a spectrum between reformative and transformative practices. Overall, progress is being made toward systemic changes in the energy sector, with a focus on the democratization of processes. Nevertheless, additional measures to enhance and reinforce energy citizenship, coupled with the advancement of enabling conditions, are imperative at all levels of governance and across all energy transition scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a review of the correspondence between Swedish diplomats in the Baltic States and the Swedish Foreign Ministry for the years 1938–1940, the purpose of this article is, firstly, to elaborate a framework for the analysis of intelligence reporting in times of crisis, secondly, to investigate how the Swedish diplomats in the Baltic States went about to report intelligence, and thirdly, to try to reconstruct how the Swedes coped with the volatile conditions characteristic of these years. The article concludes that the period can be divided into four phases, each marked by their respective conditions for intelligence reporting, and that despite shifts to the Swedes' access to different types of sources, they were still able to compensate for the loss of certain sources – most notably, among the Baltic political and governmental elites – and keep Stockholm updated with developments. Their effort in this regard arguably adds a new dimension to prevailing understandings of Sweden's interwar Baltic policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Scandinavian Economic History Review is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As energy resource prices are on the rise and the stability of energy supplies is increasingly challenged by the current geopolitical climate, it is essential to scrutinize the capability of households to adapt to the resulting circumstances by assessing the current and potential household energy supply and adapting solutions to energy consumption habits. The aim of the research is to study of the energy consumption behaviour of households in the Baltic States amidst a significant increase in prices. The research methods encompass the examination of literary sources, categorization, amalgamation, abstraction, and juxtaposition in the theoretical segment, as well as a case study focusing on energy consumers in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Notably, the study presents a unique analysis of the unprecedented scenario of substantial price hikes across all energy usage categories in the region. An examination of individual responses concerning energy consumption illustrates a notable escalation in household expenditures on electricity and heating. Households are endeavouring to curtail energy expenses through various conservation techniques. A correlation between income levels and household energy consumption is evident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the article is to analyse the issue of Ukraine's accession to the European Union in the political discourse of the Visegrad Group and Baltic states' leaders and its impact on the transformation of the EU foreign policy agenda. Based on the analysis of selected speeches delivered by heads of states and governments of the above-mentioned countries, the authors focus on explaining their vision on the need to reform the EU's foreign policy in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Particular attention is paid to the issue of future EU enlargement in the context of Ukraine's potential accession. Furthermore, the research concentrates on the reflection of the proposed vision in the official position of the EU institutions. By doing so, an attempt is made so as to answer the research question on the transformational potential of Central European and Baltic states' leaders in the decision-making process on the EU foreign policy reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NATO is facing a doctrinally contradictory defence posture in the Baltic States, as those countries are investing in a static defence line even while Western militaries adhere to manoeuvrist operational approaches. Lukas Milevski argues that political imperatives and tactical conditions make static defence more appropriate than manoeuvre warfare. Politically, NATO's policy of defending every inch and the Baltic experience of Russian occupation require forward defence. Second, the Russian border will always stop offensive manoeuvre. Tactically, the increasing difficulty of crossing the battlefield intact improves the chances of tactical defence and throws doubt upon the necessity of defensive operational manoeuvre. ◼ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the challenges of cohesion at the country and regional levels becomes especially relevant due to EU expansion, the Great Recession, and uneven economic recovery after that. Recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and imposed lockdowns, have further intensified interest in this issue. This study aims to evaluate the disparities in the development of Baltic States' regions using the author's proposed methodology for calculating an aggregate cohesion index. Some important conclusions can be made from the data analysis. A common trend across all countries was the notable economic strength of capital regions, with GDP per capita significantly exceeding national averages. Despite the pandemic's limited impact in 2020, a clear divergence trend emerged in 2021. Additionally, the club convergence between less developed regions was observed, especially in Lithuania and Latvia. In addition, Lithuania uniquely exhibited three distinct groups of regions based on economic development, in comparison with only two groups in Estonia and Latvia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Has Vladimir Putin always stood against NATO's eastward enlargement? Detractors claim that Moscow has invariably objected to the transatlantic organisation moving towards its borders. This article challenges the prevailing orthodoxy by demonstrating that at the turn of the century, the Russian head of state was quite comfortable with NATO 'setting up shop' in Eastern Europe. Drawing upon declassified US diplomatic cables and other historical sources, the presented material speaks to selective forgetfulness on the part of the Russian leadership. The first years of 'Putinism' were not marked by assertions that NATO's eastward expansion complicated relations with the West. On the contrary, his public remarks suggested that Russia was not opposed to this process. Simply put, Putin's own words at that time refute his present-day arguments and display of grievances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines how major Baltic history museums represent post-WWII Soviet-era migration and the resulting Russophone minorities, conceptualising their relationship with titular ethnic groups as a slow conflict. Focusing on museums in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, the study explores how these institutions depict the Russophone other and the narrative strategies they employ. Methodologically, the analysis draws on critical museum studies and social positioning theory to understand the construction of historical subject positions and the interplay of antagonistic, cosmopolitan, and agonistic memory modes. The article is based on fieldwork at the respective museums from 2016 to 2024. While most museums still adopt an antagonistic memory mode, framing Russophones as collective entities within (forced) industrialisation or colonisation narratives, the study’s sample museums as the Estonian National Museum (ENM) and the Vabamu Museum, are not alone in employing more nuanced approaches. These museumsincorporate personal narratives and challenge traditional nationalist discourses, though they still struggle with fully integrating the Russophone perspective. The study highlights museums’ complexities and challenges in representing inter-ethnic relations and memory politics in the post-communist Baltic context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This short piece introduces three articles that form a special section discussing how critical security studies might be helpful for conceptualizing new insecurities in the region of Central Europe and the Baltic states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Baltic States and Belarus, the Middle Devonian period is characterised by an abundant fossil record of invertebrates such as scolecodonts, brachiopods, ostracods, trilobites, bivalves, crinoids, gastropods, and tentaculites. On the other hand, there was limited diversity in the conodont and other vertebrate fauna. In this study, we introduce a newly refined ichthyofaunal assemblage from the Eifelian and Givetian epochs from the present-day regions of Belarus and Lithuania. The isolated scales of Cheirolepis are identified as C. gaugeri, C. cf. gaugeri, C. aleshkai, C. cf. aleshkai, and Cheirolepis sp., while Orvikuina is represented by the isolated scales of O. vardiaensis and Orvikuina sp. The histological analyses for the scales of Orvikuina are provided here. Moreover, Orvikuina and Cheirolepis taxa are now recognised to be widely distributed throughout the Baltic States, especially Lithuania and Belarus, as a result of these findings. Thus, this ichthyofaunal data markedly improved the biostratigraphic correlation within the study region and expanded the paleogeographic distribution of these taxa during the Eifelian and Givetian time in Laurasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article seeks to capture a facet of US – Baltic relations that for the most part has played out behind the public curtain. As such, the following chronicles key twists and turns, achievements and failures in American – Baltic intelligence relations. A substantial body of scholarship has already examined cultural, diplomatic, and security ties between these actors. The same cannot be said about intelligence bonds. This article attempts to redress this neglect in the literature. It argues that the Baltics, with their well-honed sense of Russian political affairs, have become valuable sources of intelligence for their key ally across the Atlantic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ron Asmus, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, liked to say that the Baltic states had to run a marathon to join NATO but could rely on the support of their American 'coaches.' Estonian diplomats have used the word 'babysitter' to describe their American colleagues. While it is true that the result of NATO enlargement was never inevitable, the uncertainties of the process were diminished by cooperation between candidate countries and the forces inside the US who pushed for enlargement. Without delving into their motives, this article traces the role of the US as 'coaches' and 'babysitters' in making the Baltic states' 'run' toward NATO a nearly perfect marathon, despite all the pitfalls and doubts along the way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article argues that in 1919 several US Peace Delegation members in Paris acted in accordance with the ideology of Wilsonian self-determination. However, US policy toward Estonia and the other Baltic states wavered between regarding them as part of eastern Europe to which national self-determination could be applied or, contrary to that, as part of a unified non-Bolshevik Russia. US economic policy and, in particular, its relief activity supported the striving for independence of the Baltic states. Wilson came to support the 'Russia option' for the Baltic countries in the summer of 1919. The successor Harding administration opted for the alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article approaches the history of Baltic-US relations from the point of view of International Relations scholarship and, more specifically, from the vantage point of the concept of international society. It provides an account of the process of Estonia's entry into international society with a particular focus on the role that the United States, as one of the great powers of the twentieth century, played in this process. Against this background, this article concludes that as a feature of the Baltic states' memories of entry, the history of Baltic-US relations remains vital to understanding their contemporary foreign policy outlook. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we examine for the first time a set of securities traded in the Baltic stock exchanges for indication of price clustering. This study adds to the literature about the efficiency of the Baltic stock markets, as well as to knowledge about the clustering of financial prices. Our main conclusion is that clustering is pervasive at the firm level, with traders having a striking preference for closing prices ending in zero. Price clustering tends to increase with price level, turnover, and relative spread and to decrease with tick size. Overall, our results are consistent with the idea that the lower the cost of rounding prices and the greater the uncertainty about the proper value of the securities, the higher the propensity of prices to cluster at round numbers. Therefore, the evidence provides some support for the negotiation/resolution hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on research on political culture and research on geopolitical orientations, this article analyses public opinion in the three Baltic states (2014 and 2021), focusing on political support, inter-ethnic relations and geopolitical attitudes. In the first section, the empirical analysis demonstrates widespread public support for the national communities in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Most respondents feel a sense of attachment to or pride in their respective homeland, and a relative majority of all respondents feel that their contemporary political systems are preferable to other systems in the past. At the same time, the analysis alert us to distinct ethnic differences: the Russian-speakers in the three countries tend to be decidedly more nostalgic about the Soviet past and less satisfied with the present regimes. Confirming and updating findings familiar from previous studies, this article also notes that the population groups in the three Baltic states were growing more or less accustomed to the domestic situation, up until the escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian war in 2022. In the second part of the article, we turn to geopolitical belonging and security perceptions in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three small Baltic economies of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have undergone extreme economical system change from the planned economy to the market one. The institutional infrastructure have been reorganized and all three countries joined the EU and Euro area. We aim to answer which channels of economic integration are of the largest importance for the small open European economies. We showed that all three countries could be treated as one region due to development, institutional and economic similarities. Secondly, we explore whether the trade or common currency is the main channel for the business cycle synchronization across the region of three small Baltic economies. The business cycle synchronization and trade intensity (TI) between the Baltic States and their main trading partners before and after joining the EU have been investigated as an example of an ex-post case for the small economies. We have observed a large increase in TI with the trading partners from EMU and EU countries, irrespective of the TI calculation method. The analysis of business cycle synchronization of the Baltic States with their main trading partners is captured by the correlations of the cyclical component of GDP series, using the quarterly real and de-trended GDP growth data from 1995 Q1 to 2019 Q4. The panel model has indicated an important empirical feature that the common currency strongly and significantly impacted the business cycle synchronization whilst the bilateral trade intensity between the Baltic States and their main trading partners have a significant negative effect on the business cycle synchronization when controlling for time effects. The Granger causality test confirmed that the most robust impulses to the Baltic States are coming from EU trading partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to evaluate price cannibalization effects in forecasts of long-term electricity prices and substantiate their relevance on the profitability of renewables in the Baltic States from 2024 to 2033. Statistical data analysis, literature review, scenario method, and PLEXOS modeling were applied. Five scenarios were analyzed for developing renewable energy sources (RES) and load in Lithuania. In contrast, scenarios for Estonia and Latvia were based on assumptions derived from the countries' national RES strategies. The results showed that the increase in RES capacities will halve electricity market prices from around 130 EUR/MWh in 2024 to 58 EUR/MWh in Latvia, 60 EUR/MWh in Estonia, and 60–77 EUR/MWh in Lithuania in 2033. In time-waving, the absolute and relative price cannibalization effects of renewables were found. In 2033, the loss of revenue from solar photovoltaic (PV) generators was estimated to be 5.5–17.0 EUR/MWh in Lithuania, 7.1 EUR/MWh in Latvia, and 5.6 EUR in Estonia. The case of onshore wind demonstrated revenue losses of 10.5–22.0 EUR/MWh in Lithuania, 12.0 EUR/MWh in Latvia, and 10.0 EUR/MWh in Estonia. After 2029, revenues received by RES electricity generators could not guarantee project profitability; therefore, market flexibility options will be required. The key innovative strategy to mitigate the price cannibalization effect is the demand-side response when leveraging demand flexibility. Typically, this is achieved by sending price signals to the consumers who, if they have any, shift their demand to lower price periods. This is easily applied within HVAC systems, smart electric vehicle charging, and smart home appliance usage. Such behavior would allow the price cannibalization effect to be decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses contemporary societal roles of German in the Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania). Speaker and learner statistics and a summary of sociolinguistic research (Linguistic Landscapes, language learning motivation, language policies, international roles of languages) suggest that German has by far fewer speakers and functions than the national languages, English, and Russian, and it is not a dominant language in the contemporary Baltics anymore. However, German is ahead of 'any other language' in terms of users and societal roles as a frequent language in education, of economic relations, as a historical lingua franca, and a language of traditional and new minorities. Highly diverse groups of users and language policy actors form a 'coalition of interested parties' which creates niches which guarantee German a frequent use. In the light of the abundance of its functions, the paper suggests the concept 'additional language of society' for a variety such as German in the Baltics – since there seems to be no adequate alternative labelling which would do justice to all societal roles. The paper argues that this concept may also be used for languages in similar societal situations and, not least, be useful in language marketing and the promotion of multilingualism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the ongoing efforts towards Cold War heritage-making in Europe, the ambiguities in meaning and the cultural status of certain materialities from the second half of the 20th century across different national contexts highlight a heritage dissonance at play. Focusing on the case of the Baltic states, we analyse the engagements with Soviet military remnants since the early 1990s in the context of changing political regimes. We approach the prevailing practices of disinheritance along the same conceptual lines as heritage-making and highlight how disinheritance has contributed to shaping national identities and future-oriented landscape relations. We argue that disinheritance can be a legitimate alternative strategy for dealing with difficult legacies. In addition, we shed light on how the fragmented attempts to preserve and re-narrativize certain Soviet military remnants reflect the constrained relations between the political agendas of post-1990s nationalism and European integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four species of lichens were reported as new to Lithuania: Flavoplaca arcis, Kuettlingeria teicholyta, Ramalina europaea, Xanthoria calcicola. Of these, two calcicolous lichens, Kuettlingeria teicholyta and Flavoplaca arcis, were recorded for the first time in the Baltic States. Two species, namely Cladonia turgida and Peltigera aphthosa, previously considered extinct, were re-found after more than 50 years in Lithuania. The conservation value of some of the listed species was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses the issue of stress coping of socially vulnerable young people. Coping methods and strategies are analysed regarding the socio-cultural context. A quantitative study was conducted to reveal the coping methods and strategies of socially vulnerable young people aged 18–29 from Northern Lithuania and Southern Latvia. Vulnerable young people in the two Baltic States use different coping strategies and sets of coping strategies which may be related with socio-cultural reasons, different content of the social service package, availability and content of psychological and social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the University of Latvia. History / Latvijas Universitātes Žurnāls. Vēsture is the property of University of Latvia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)