Multi-level long-term spatial development management in the Baltic states: approaches and models

The article considers theoretical and applied aspects of long-term management of spatial development of the Baltic States (Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia) at three levels of management: national, regional and local within the framework of integration processes of the development and administrative-territorial reforms in 2009 (Lithuania), 2017-2019 (Estonia), 2019-2021 (Latvia). The authors give a review of theoretical and applied research on the main approaches and models of managing the spatial development strategy of these countries and their assessment. The review shows that the spatial development management strategy at the national, regional and local levels requires an integrated approach to structural changes in the Baltic States. This includes consolidation of administrative-territorial units within countries; correction of their roles, functions and interests; strengthening of investment and human resources to ensure integration processes; expansion of the space of common socio-cultural codes of life and behavior of multi-ethnic groups of the surveyed countries, and more. Research results show that there is a significant communication gap between the power elites of the vertical and horizontal levels of government in the Baltic States. The elimination of the communication gap is possible through a strong public organization of an intermediate level to manage the balanced spatial development of society. There is a need for active interaction of public authorities at all three levels of government: national, regional and local, in the interests of a single goal: to promote the uniform and long-term development of the entire territorial space of the Baltic States. Every resident of these countries should have the same opportunities and affordable services regardless of where he lives.