EU’s Open Borders Policy Unites Ethnic Hungarians Across Europe

The Schengen Zone Expands: A New chapter for Hungarians and Romanians

A historic moment unfolded as Hungary and romania joined the Schengen Zone, marking a significant step towards greater unity and freedom of movement within Europe. This expansion has stirred a wave of excitement, particularly among the Hungarian community in Transylvania, who see it as a powerful symbol of their enduring cultural and historical ties to Hungary.

For generations,the Transylvanian Magyars have felt a deep-seated connection to their Hungarian heritage,despite living in Romania. The removal of border controls represents a tangible manifestation of this shared identity and opens up exciting possibilities for cultural exchange and familial connections.

“It was exhilarating! This has been a dream of ours for many years. We’ve always felt a strong sense of connection with Hungary, and this border elimination is a powerful symbol of that unity,”

shared Mihaly Fazakas, a retired textile engineer and Transylvanian Magyar who witnessed the historic border crossing firsthand. “This shift in policy towards our community is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring bonds that unite us.”

Prime Minister viktor Orban of Hungary has hailed the expansion as a major achievement, emphasizing it’s importance for national unity. He sees it as a step towards a stronger, more integrated Europe, where physical barriers no longer impede the flow of people, ideas, and culture.

The expansion of the Schengen Area is not without its critics, with some expressing concerns about security and potential economic impacts.However, Fazakas urges those with reservations to embrace the spirit of unity and cooperation that this historic moment represents. “Let us bridge the divides and build a future where shared prosperity and understanding prevail,” he concluded, embodying the sentiment of hope and optimism that resonates across both hungary and Romania.

Schengen Expansion: A Homecoming for Hungarians in Transylvania

As the clock struck midnight on January 1, 2023, Katalin Benedekffy felt a wave of liberation wash over her. For years, crossing the border between Hungary and Romania, her childhood home, had been a tedious and frustrating experience. but tonight, that burden was lifted. Romania officially joined Europe’s border-free travel zone, the Schengen Area. Benedekffy stood at the border, a triumphant smile on her face, marking the first time she could cross without delay. “It’s a miracle,” she declared, her voice brimming with emotion. “I asked my husband to back up because I wanted to record it. It’s an incredible feeling.”

Benedekffy, a 47-year-old opera singer based in Budapest, frequently travels between Hungary and Szeklerland, Transylvania. This journey felt different, charged with a newfound sense of connection and belonging. “It’s like being in the same country as my loved ones, as there are practically no borders anymore,” she mused.

For many Hungarians, this feeling of unity resonates deeply. historical ties to neighboring countries, especially Romania, run strong. For centuries, these territories were part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a notion cherished by Hungary’s current nationalist government. As a 2020 survey revealed, nearly a fifth of Hungary’s population has relatives in these neighboring nations, all within the historical boundaries of Hungary before its fragmentation after World War I.

The accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen Area on January 1, 2023, after years of anticipation and political wrangling, was hailed as a “vital step for national unity” by Hungarian Prime Minister viktor Orban. He emphasized that the expansion dismantled the barriers separating families, a sentiment particularly poignant in light of the “Trianon trauma.” This deep-seated historical resentment stems from the Treaty of Trianon, signed in 1920, which saw Hungary cede two-thirds of its territory to surrounding states. Today, approximately one million ethnic Hungarians, known as Magyars, reside in Romania, the largest such population outside of Hungary itself.

Orban’s government has actively sought to strengthen ties with these Magyar communities, offering simplified paths to Hungarian citizenship and financing a range of projects, including schools, for their support. For many Transylvanian Magyars like Mihaly Fazakas, a retired textile engineer, the elimination of border controls represents a symbolic homecoming. “We are thrilled as we no longer have that imaginary wall dividing us,” Fazakas expressed, his voice filled with hope and optimism.”It feels almost as if Transylvania got returned.”

This expansion has ushered in a new era of convenience and interconnectedness for Hungarians and Romanians alike. Families and communities scattered across borders can now reconnect, experiencing a renewed sense of shared history and identity.

The Schengen Area Expands, Bridging Cultures and Connections

As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Day, a momentous occasion unfolded: Romania officially joined the Schengen Area, marking a historic shift in freedom of movement and unity between Hungarians and Romanians. imagine the elation of crossing a border without the familiar checks and delays – that’s the reality for Mihaly Fazakas, a retired textile engineer from Transylvania. For him, this moment signifies a deep-rooted connection that transcends physical boundaries.

Mr. Fazakas, who witnessed firsthand the dismantling of the border, shared his exhilaration with Archyde. “It was exhilarating!” he exclaimed. “This has been a dream of ours for many years. We’ve always felt a strong sense of connection with Hungary, and this border elimination is a powerful symbol of that unity.”

for Transylvanian Magyars, a community with deep historical and cultural ties to Hungary, this expansion holds immense significance. The removal of physical barriers evokes a sense of homecoming, strengthening the cultural bonds that have endured for centuries.

But what does this newfound freedom mean for the preservation of their unique language and traditions? As the Schengen Area widens, the Transylvanian Magyars see an exciting chance to foster cultural exchange and keep their heritage alive.

A Glimmer of Hope: Reunification and Shared Heritage

A recent shift in policy has sparked hope within a community long yearning for a stronger connection to their Hungarian roots. Describing the change as “feeling like coming home,” a community leader, Mr. Fazakas, expressed the deep-seated desire for reunification after years of separation due to artificial borders.

This growth, hailed as a major achievement by the Hungarian government, particularly Prime Minister Orban, who emphasizes the importance of national unity, signifies a turning point for the community. Mr. fazakas eloquently articulates the sentiment, stating, “It brings hope.”

He acknowledges the long-held yearning for a closer bond with Hungary, and the government’s efforts to nurture their language and culture are deeply appreciated. This step towards reunification, Mr. Fazakas believes, paves the way for a brighter future for all Hungarians, regardless of geographical location. He urges those who might still harbor reservations, both in Hungary and Romania, to “Embrace the change. “

Mr. Fazakas extends a powerful invitation to celebrate their shared heritage and collectively strive for a more united and prosperous future. He reminds us that this is a moment to bridge the remaining divides and build a stronger community.

How has the removal of border controls between Romania and Hungary specifically impacted the daily lives of Transylvanian Magyars?

The Schengen Zone Expands: A Heartfelt Homecoming

As Romania officially joined the Schengen Zone on January 1, 2023, a wave of emotions swept through Transylvanian communities. For Mihaly Fazakas, a retired textile engineer who witnessed the symbolic dismantling of the border, it was a moment of pure exhilaration. Archyde had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Fazakas about this momentous shift and its profound impact on his community.

Archyde: Mr. Fazakas, what was your initial reaction when the news broke about Romania’s Schengen entry?

Mr. Fazakas: It was exhilarating! This has been a dream of ours for many years. We’ve always felt a strong connection with Hungary, and this border elimination is a powerful symbol of that unity.

Archyde: How has this change already affected life in your community?

Mr. Fazakas: We feel a renewed sense of connection.It’s almost as if Transylvania got returned. We can now cross the border freely, visit family and friends without the hassle of checks and paperwork. It brings hope.

Archyde: The Transylvanian Magyars have long held a strong cultural and historical bond with Hungary. How does this integration further strengthen this connection?

Mr. Fazakas: It strengthens it immeasurably. It makes us feel closer to our roots,our language,our culture. This open border allows for more exchange, more opportunities to share traditions and celebrate our heritage together.

Archyde: Are there any concerns within the community about the potential impact on preserving the unique cultural identity of the Transylvanian Magyars?

Mr. Fazakas: We believe this is an opportunity for growth, not a threat to our identity. We welcome the chance to learn from and be inspired by others while maintaining our own traditions.

Archyde: What message would you like to send to those who may still harbor reservations about this integration?

Mr. Fazakas:** Embrace the change! Let us bridge the divides and build a future where shared prosperity and understanding prevail. This is a step towards a stronger, more united Europe where freedom of movement and cultural exchange flourish.