New Romanian proposal would split Szeklerland in two

Romania is currently contemplating significant administrative reforms that could reshape the country’s county structure. The Romanian proposal, pushed by business and academia, seeks to reduce the existing 41 counties to just 15, excluding Bucharest. 

Support for reform and political realities

According to Index, the basis for reorganisation would be the population of small towns and cities, with a suggestion that municipalities should have a population of at least 5,000 and cities at least 10,000. Proponents argue that such a restructuring would enhance the efficiency of Romania’s administrative machinery. Bogdan Daniel Vișan, president of the Romanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, supports the idea, emphasising the need to define population thresholds for municipalities and cities. Additionally, Romania’s social-democratic prime minister, Marcel Ciolacu, acknowledges the necessity of administrative reform but cautions that it cannot be achieved overnight. He specifies that any reorganisation would not take place before the 2024 parliamentary elections.

Transylvanian counties: a controversial aspect

While the proposal respects historical borders in Romania, concerns arise regarding its impact on cultural, demographic and historical aspects, particularly in Transylvania. Szeklerland, with a 38% Hungarian population in Mures county, faces division, raising questions about autonomy. In a particularly problematic move, Harghita and Covasna, with 85% and 74% Hungarian populations respectively, would be merged with Brasov. This not only eliminates any prospect of autonomy but also dilutes the Hungarian majority in the resulting county to 43%, a significant shift from the current demographics.

Another potential disadvantage for Hungarians in Slovakia

Slovakia, Romania’s neighbour, is also undergoing administrative reforms, with leaked proposals suggesting significant changes. The existing system, designed without Hungarian-majority administrative units, is undergoing potential modifications that may disadvantage the Hungarian community. Despite a recognised need for reform, Slovak politicians are hesitant to challenge the existing system established by Vladimir Mečiar. The proposed changes could potentially undermine Hungarian interests politically and economically. The leaked proposal in Slovakia suggests a less favourable scenario for Hungarians than the current system. Specifics include annexing Šamorín to Bratislava, merging Trnava and Nitra into a larger administrative unit and abolishing the Hungarian-majority Komárno district.

Balancing efficiency and minority rights

As Romania and Slovakia contemplate administrative reforms, the delicate balance between efficiency and the protection of minority rights, particularly those of the Hungarian communities, remains a critical consideration. The outcomes of these proposed changes will likely shape the political and cultural landscape in both countries for years to come. Discover the latest events unfolding in Szeklerland by reading our article about watch fires demanding the autonomy of Szeklerland in Romania.

Source: Index