This paper explores the role of 'periodisations' in the development of HRM in the Latvian public sector and consists of a series of 'elite interviews' with leading 'actors' identifying further 'periodisations' which are 'mapped' in an evolutionary framework. Immediately following independence in 1990 was a 'void' period being a time of turmoil. 'Transition' period followed from mid-1990 characterised by up-skilling and the emergence of awareness of HRM. The 'Emergence' period began circa 2008 with more consideration of its role and importance of acquisition of skills related to HRM previously transactional in nature. The 'emergence' period has great significance in modern developments of HRM in the Latvian Public Sector. The elite interview methodological approach does however have some limitations for generalisability and future quantitative validation may be required. This knowledge informs and enhances understanding of Post-Soviet behavioural factors and residual cultural effects offering a framework for future research.
This chapter explores the relationships between what are complex and shifting socio-economic and political conditions and the role and connection of norms and networks of social cooperation, such as friendship networks and kinship connections within Latvia. These “connections” and “kinships” have long served as a source of “social capital” it is argued, which is beyond the immediate circle of family. Research does suggest these relationships often perform functions usually associated with formal civil society, particularly in times of need. Specifically, this chapter considers the nature and practice of blat which something, it is argued, so naturally it was not even thought about. During Soviet times, it developed into a quiet resistance against the official system making life bearable for citizens, and therefore acting to support the continued existence of the Soviet system. The chapter also considers the links between social network theory, new-institutionalism, and social capital.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.