Re-constructing the Post-Soviet industrial region

"This book examines the complex economic, political, social and cultural transformations of the Soviet Union's 'rustbelt' industrial regions, focusing in particular on the restructuring of the Donbas in eastern Ukraine, once an archetypal Soviet industrial area. It shows how the region's unique history posed not only enormous political and economic challenges, but also provided the resources needed for it to adapt to changing circumstances at different geographical scales. In particular, it appraises the process of restructuring in the coal industry, historically a vital industry for the regional economy. Overall, this book provides detailed analysis of restructuring in a region that continues to shape post-Soviet transition in Ukraine and elsewhere in the former communist world."--BOOK JACKET.