What role does the international community play in the building of the political communities of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania? Budryte (Brenau U.) takes the view that minority-friendly policies do not guarantee that tolerant communities when creating multi-ethnic countries such as these Baltic states, and that critically evaluating the past, maintaining functioning state institutions and keeping up good relations with the former colonial powers are also significant contributors in creating a truly pluralistic environment. He offers case studies, evaluations of Soviet population policies and their effects, minority rights and majority insecurity, inclusiveness and fear of uncertain loyalty, and the process of recalling the Soviets' policy of genocide in the independent Baltic states. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)