The aim of this project s 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 an analyse 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. The activities of the larger project is mainly constructed around network building, exchange programs, teaching and research.

The year at CAS has made it possible for to start Project BALTICUM as a joint collaboration with researchers under the same roof. CAS gave the project a great start with financial and administrative support.

During our stay, three new research projects were conceived, which will be conducted as part of Project BALTICUM:

• New Elites, led by Anton Steen
• Environmental politics, led by Per Kristian Mydske
• Parliaments, led by Arne J. Stokke

Thanks to a good start at CAS, Project BALTICUM will continue its activities in the years to come, and will lead to professional exchange and developments both in the Baltic and in Norway.