Voraussetzungen der Demokratie in der postkommunistischen Systemtransformation: Tschechien, Belarus und die Ukraine

Most transformation theories argue that democratisation depends mostly on the "institutional design" of post-communist systems. Social factors like the state of nation building and the development of civil society are often neglected. A comparison of Belarus, the Czech Republic, and Ukraine reveals, however, the decisive role social factors play for a successful democratisation of previously totalitarian systems. Crucial differences between these three countries become apparent: Whereas civil society and democratic elites exist in the Czech Republic, in Belarus, e.g., both factors are not well developed. Moreover, it can be shown that the existence of a strong civil society is not absolutely necessary in the early transformation process but becomes significantly important at a later stage. A democracy that is based on democratic elites only is in danger to be captured by antidemocratic and populist forces.