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GLOBAL-LOCAL INTERPLAY IN THE BALTIC SEA REGION Pärnu, Estonia, October 1-4, 1998  Prof. David Smallbone
Abstract
Ever since the publication of the Birch Report in the late 1970s, it has been the contribution of small and medium enterprices (SMEs) to emloyment generation that has been the main focus of attention of policy makers in western countries. In transition economies, the potential economic role of SMEs includes generating employment, and thus contributing to absorbing any labour surpluses which result from economic restructuring, although clearly the role of smaller firms in any economy is much wider than this.
This paper will consider the role of SMEs in regional economic development, focusing on their potential for generating employment. Empirical evidence will be used selectively to support the arguments presented. These will include two studies which the author has co-ordinated funded under the ACE programme, involving survey work in the 3 Baltic States. The paper aims to contribute to the debate about the type of policies that are likely to enhance the employment generating capability both at a national and a regional level.
More specifically, the paper will discuss the following issues:
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