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25 Years of Transition: Post-Communist Europe's Economic Transformation

2,741 views · Published 15 December 2014 · 1:31:15 · Indexed 8 November 2026

Channel: AtlanticCouncil · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

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On Monday, December 15, the Atlantic Council will host the US launch of a new International Monetary Fund report entitled 25 Years of Transition which explores how Eastern Europe's economy has changed and grown since the fall of the Berlin Wall. The event also marks the start of our new  EuroGrowth Conversation Series, focused on getting Europe back on the path to sustainable economic growth and job creation through structural reforms  and more and better trade across the Atlantic.

The fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 changed world history and dramatically transformed Europe. Central and Eastern Europe embarked on a historic transition from communism to capitalism and democracy, and a reintegration into the global economy. Liberalization of trade and price fluctuation came quickly, but institutional reforms in areas like governance, competition policy, labor markets, and privatization of state-owned enterprises—often faced significant opposition from vested interests. Reform momentum has slowed significantly in recent years, with a risk of reversal emerging in some countries. To revitalize economic growth and reduce the risk of Central and Eastern Europe falling back into crisis—a stronger commitment to free market policies  is needed.

Please join us on December 15  for what promises to be an interesting and lively discussion about Eastern Europe's economic transformation and its challenges going forward. The report launch will be followed  by a high-level panel discussion.

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