9612749 Pacek This award is supported through the Small Grants for Exploratory Research mechanism. This project investigates the relationship between economic reforms and political party success in post-communist Albania. The transition of formerly authoritarian, communist nations into democratic free-market nations has been quite tumultuous. This study collects regional economic, demographic, and political data in Albania surrounding the Albanian elections scheduled for May 26, 1996. Contrasted with other former communist countries, the Albanian election appears to go against the recent electoral trend of the electorate shifting support to former communist parties. The study will considerably enhance our understanding of the factors contributing to continuous support for democratic institutions in formerly communist nations. ***
