ABSTRACT

This study examines successful and intensive free-trade policies in Estonia and Latvia, which exist despite the low-levels of domestic welfare in these countries. In contrast to the conventional elite-centric approach, this study uses a survey experiment to explore rationales for positive public opinion toward free trade policy. The results reveal that an individual exposed to the stimulus of a strategic security issue or consumer consideration tends to support free trade. These effects are evident among Latvians and highly-educated Estonians. Furthermore, the favorable international environment enhances the positive public opinion of free trade in Estonia and Latvia.

摘要

本研究考察了爱沙尼亚和拉脱维亚成功且密集的自由贸易政策，尽管这些国家的国内福利水平较低，但这些政策仍然存在。与传统的以精英为中心的方法相反，本研究采用调查实验来探讨公众对自由贸易政策积极看法的理由。结果表明，受到战略安全问题或消费者考虑刺激的个人倾向于支持自由贸易。这些影响在拉脱维亚人和受过高等教育的爱沙尼亚人中很明显。此外，有利的国际环境也增强了爱沙尼亚和拉脱维亚自由贸易的积极民意。