Ethnic Identity vs. Citizenship: The Hungarian Community in Romania

The question of Ethnic Identity versus Citizenship is a complex one, especially within the context of the Hungarian community in Romania. This essay seeks to explore the subtle yet significant differences between these two concepts and their implications for the members of this community, particularly those who identify as Magyars rather than Romanian citizens.

Introduction

Ethnic identity and citizenship are fundamentally different concepts. Any ethnic group within Romania, such as the Hungarians, are Romanian citizens by birth. However, this does not negate their right to self-identify as a member of their ethnic group. This essay will examine the complex relationship between citizenship and ethnic identity, particularly as it pertains to Hungarians who live in Romania and consider themselves Magyars.

Ethnic Identity and Citizenship

Ethnicity and citizenship are distinct but interconnected concepts. As a member of the Hungarian ethnic group, individuals in Transylvania or Banat may choose to self-identify as Magyars without thereby renouncing their Romanian citizenship. This freedom to self-identify is enshrined in Romanian law, recognizing the right of individuals to declare their ethnic identity.

Complexities of Dual Identity

The situation becomes more nuanced when individuals express a preference for their ethnic identity over their citizenship. This choice is often influenced by historical, cultural, and political factors. For instance, the treatment of ethnic minorities by the modern Romanian state, similar to the treatment of minorities during the pre-WW1 era, can lead to a sense of disconnection from the broader national identity.

My ancestors, who lived as Hungarian citizens in pre-WW1 Hungary, never considered themselves Hungarian. Their experience highlights the complexity of cultural and ethnic identity. Today, many Hungarians in Romania feel a similar disconnect from the Romanian state, leading them to identify primarily as Magyars.

Misunderstandings and Stereotypes

Common stereotypes and misunderstandings can further complicate the issue. The characterization of Romanian citizens of Hungarian ancestry as “parasites” or “not truly Hungarian” highlights the clash between cultural pride and national identity. Language, religion, and cultural practices distinct from the majority Romanian population contribute to their self-identification as Magyars.

Double Citizenship and National Identity

While many individuals in the Hungarian community in Romania are Romanian citizens, they may also hold dual citizenship. This coexistence of multiple identities can be seen as a social fact, reflecting the complexity of national and ethnic identities.

Historical Context

The experience of pre-Trianon Hungary provides a relevant historical context. Even within a seemingly unified nation-state, ethnic groups like the Hungarians in Transylvania faced challenges in maintaining their unique identity. Romania, too, must navigate this balance between national and ethnic identities, especially in the face of its constitutionally defined approach to nationhood.

Implications for National Identity

Romania, like pre-War Hungary, has struggled to foster a national identity that accommodates ethnic minorities. The Romanian state's approach to citizenship and ethnic identity is inherently different from the Swiss model, where voluntary adherence to a multinational state trumps ethnic identity. The 1.2 million Hungarians in Romania feel a sense of marginalization, which is reflected in their self-identification as Magyars.

Conclusion

The relationship between ethnicity and citizenship is complex and multifaceted. The Hungarian community in Romania exemplifies this complexity, where individuals choose to identify as Magyars rather than solely as Romanian citizens. This choice reflects a deep cultural and historical connection to the Hungarian nation, independent of formal state recognition. As Romania continues to evolve, understanding and respecting these social facts is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.