The Transition to a Market Economy (Background, Reference Models and Policies)

Defined is the concept of transition. Reasoned is the thesis that the transition is neither accidental nor is due to subjective management mistakes. It is objectively determined by the fact that the socialist experiment as a “diversion” from the civilization development doomed to delay the countries from Central and Eastern Europe comparing not only to the economically most developed countries, but to the world. The change is determined also by the forming in the world “new economy” – eco-socially-market, from tertiary-information type, capable to integrate in the world networks. Drawn are the constituting principles and referent models of the newly emerged market economies. They explain why the transition looks like a “conservative revolution”. Made is comparison between the principles, on which the Anglo-Saxon and German-Japanese model lay. Presented is a generalized estimation of the growth of the countries in transition and is outlined the place of the countries (incl. Bulgaria) in the transformation process. Pointed are the reasons for divergence of the countries in transition and is analyzed the significance of the type of the economic policy. Reasoned is the conclusion that our choice should be undoubtedly towards liberalism, combined with the strategic role of the state. Defended is the thesis about the transition as a dualistic process, i. e. about its dirigible and spontaneous character. The both sides provoke conflict of the emerging market logic with the quasi oligarchy way of the change, set in the nature of the transition. Interpreted are some criteria for finalization of the transition.