Changing State-Society Relations in Post-communist Countries

Often concerns are raised about the political disenchantment and the lack of notable improvements in political attitudes among the citizens of post-communist countries. This paper takes advantage of the newest International Social Survey Program (ISSP) data to explore the character and the dynamics of state-society relations in post-communist countries, by using a modified version of Paige's political alienation model. I conclude that, while citizens in most established democracies bear allegiant attitudes, citizens of post-communist countries feel alienated. During the past ten years the political alienation in post-communist countries has slightly decreased, as citizens have become more confident regarding their political capabilities, and (mostly) perceive their government as more responsive to citizen's needs. There is no general trend, however, with regards to confidence in political authorities.