This work, written by a scholar and consultant who has worked extensively in Central and Eastern Europe, presents important background information and analysis on the economic and political changes that are taking place in that part of the world. The author's work is based on research conducted at the Department of Economics at Harvard University.

The book provides the basis for future evaluation of the changes in post-communist economies. It discusses the radical changes in Europe, economic reforms in Eastern Europe and the former USSR, economic development strategies, and theoretical and policy issues on currency convertibility in post-communist economies.