Ideology and Organizations in Central and Eastern Europe: An Assessment of Lithuania and Romania

This paper examines how higher education, management positions, and life experiences influence ideological preferences among professionals in two countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Results of a survey of 255 Lithuanian and Romanian managers suggest that college-educated professionals in both countries exhibit stronger communitarian tendencies, while top managers are more likely to prefer individualism. Life experience predicted individualism in Lithuania but not in Romania. This study underscores the enduring impact of historical legacies and educational systems on managerial values. Organizations in the region should consider tailoring recruitment, training, and leadership development strategies to leverage these ideological dynamics.