The EU Model vs. The Russian Model: Prosperity, Initiative, and Economic Success
The current economic prosperity of Tallinn and Warsaw certainly serves as a constant reminder to people in St. Petersburg, Minsk, and Kyiv about the benefits of the EU and Eurozone model. This prosperity highlights the stark contrast between the economic direction chosen by Estonia, Poland, and others, and the economic challenges faced by Russia and Belarus.
The Contrast Between Tallinn and Warsaw, and Russia
The current prosperity of Tallinn and Warsaw is a sign that countries like Estonia and Poland are much better off now compared to when they were under the influence of the communist regime. The people in St. Petersburg, Minsk, and Kyiv are witnessing the tangible benefits of following a different economic model, one that is often associated with the European Union and the Eurozone.
It is important to note that there are numerous citizens in Russia and Belarus who are unhappy with the authoritarian regimes in their countries. These citizens often see the EU as a beacon of freedom and prosperity that they wish to emulate.
The Lack of an Alternative to the Russian Model
If there were such a thing as a “Russian model,” it would struggle to compete with the “EU model.” This comparison can be made on two key aspects: personal initiative and personal responsibility.
Personal Initiative
Personal initiative is much supported in and by the EU, and it takes various forms such as founding NGOs to support all kinds of causes, becoming entrepreneurs, or changing professions later in life. Such initiatives often receive public funding to support their activities. Contrast this with countries like Russia, where personal initiative is often punished, such as in the case of protesters who are jailed. This environment stifles growth and progress.
Personal Responsibility
Personal responsibility is another crucial aspect. The Soviet era often blamed "four seasons and international imperialism" for failures, indicating a culture where personal responsibility was not valued. However, in modern Russia, it is common to find local officials in provincial towns blaming others for communal problems rather than taking responsibility. This reluctance to take responsibility can be detrimental to economic success and social progress.
Examples and Comparisons
Due to the lack of success stories aligned with the Russian model, it is noteworthy that there are no positive examples to showcase. Critics often blame the West for these challenges, portray Eastern Europe as mere puppets, and even rely on German taxpayer money. However, does this change the reality?
When we look at tangible indicators such as the salaries and living standards of ordinary citizens, the differences become stark. For instance, teachers, shop assistants, and bus drivers in Moscow earn a certain amount, but after taxes, their take-home pay is significantly reduced. Similarly, this applies to cities like Arkhangelsk and Murmansk.
Instead of focusing on the capital of a resource-rich country like Moscow, which has 17 million inhabitants and displays impressive skyscrapers, we should compare it with Tallinn, which has only 450,000 inhabitants. The comparison of large urban centers with small but vibrant European capitals showcases the reality of economic prosperity differently.
To sum up, the EU model, characterized by personal initiative and responsibility, offers a path to success that cannot be replicated by the repressive and limiting Russian model. The prosperity of Tallinn and Warsaw serves as a testament to this, and it should serve as an inspiration for those seeking economic and political freedom.