Case 300 - Oligarchs: Simulating Economic and Political Dynamics in Post-Communist Narkonia

Gould, John A.

This is a class simulation designed for graduate or undergraduate courses in comparative political economy, international political economy, postcommunist studies, and advanced courses in American foreign policy. It may also be used as the basis of a take-home writing assignment. The goal is to provide students with a basis to debate the interaction between economic reforms and political institutions in a postcommunist context. Students of U.S. foreign policy will also come to appreciate the tensions created by simultaneously promoting democracy and open markets abroad and maintaining international strategic interests. Although this case is entirely fictional, some elements may be reminiscent of real events in some post-communist countries.