Forest-Sector Concerns in the Baltic States: Implications for an Expanded European Union

Abstract

ABSTRACT European Union (EU) enlargement will create a significant impact on the forest sectors of both old and new member states. In recognition of the importance of integrating national forest policies with relevant EU strategies, this study examines the forest policy networks in countries with economies in transition and, more specifically, identifies issues of concern in the forest sectors of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania (the Baltic States). Results from an open-ended survey show that the three countries share similar forest-sector concerns. Though the relative magnitudes of the concerns are similar, country-specific situations are emerging. A list of 22 individual highest ranking issues of concern in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania was compiled. Main areas of concern are (in rank of importance): (1) forest legislation; (2) top level forest administration; (3) private forestry; (4) aspects of economics; (5) environmental considerations; (6) human resources, research, and education; (7) timber processing and trade; and (8) public participation.