Otto von Habsburg, who is presently serving as President of the Pan-Europa Union, presents a series of essays examining the problems facing all of the major countries of Central and Eastern Europe since the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact. Their situation is discussed in the light of relevant historical events and ethnic, political, and economic relationships during and after the time of the Holy Roman Empire up to the present. Areas of possible conflict are analysed and the factors necessary for their solution are outlined. This is a timely, comprehensive study of the European community that contributes to an understanding of the problems facing Europe and the world today.