J.E. LAWRYSHYN
ABSTRACT
To be able to grasp the essence of the present socio-economic problems facing most of the Former Soviet Union (FSU) countries, it is necessary to look at the political system that controlled and dictated, for almost a century, practically every facet of civic life. Although the Soviets were successful in their space programs and the developments of a modem type of military armaments, they failed miserably in providing even the most basic necessities of everyday life to their people. The construction and housing industry is underdeveloped by practically any standard. This is primarily due to the lack and shortages of construction materials. New construction methodology will require good quality materials and new techniques. The development and upgrading of masonry products has been initiated by several groups, with the introduction of western type of concrete block and brick manufacturing technologies.
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