Economic Conditions of Nationalities in the Baltics

Economies can be analyzed at both the macro- and micro-economic levels; in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, a cross-cutting dimension also is relevant, comparing similarities and differences in the micro-economic conditions of the multiple nationalities living there. This paper first outlines different levels and types of economic activity especially relevant in economies in transformation. Second, it draws upon the second New Baltic Barometer (NBB) survey of April 1995 to analyze individual and household economic conditions in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. In each country the Barometer separately examines Baltic and Russian nationals. It thus can test how important nationality is (or is not) for economic success or for avoiding destitution. The study draws upon comparisons of micro-economic conditions and macro-level data for the Baltic states, demonstrating the need to use micro-level data to understand what is actually happening within societies in transformation. 13 tables, 31 references.