But even the relatively toothless Welsh Assembly will have the power to scrutinise and alter the administration of Wales, and so give its people a greater sense of participation in their own government.

ECONOMIST: Britain��s welcome devolution

Public confidence would also be boosted by giving consumers a clearer sense of participation in the regulatory process, so that they do not feel that such products are being foisted on them by authorities who are cosier with the industry than with shoppers.

ECONOMIST: Who��s afraid?

In western Ukraine, the spectral legacy of Austro-Hungarian rule, with its stronger sense of civic participation and private ownership, can still be felt.

ECONOMIST: The land that time forgot