18 December is the Day of National Minorities in Romania. In 1992, the “Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National, Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities” was adopted by a UN General Assembly Resolution, and since 2017, this day is celebrated as a national day in Romania. According to the Romanian Constitution, 18 national minorities are represented in Parliament, with the right to make decisions and also enjoy a significant legislative package dedicated to them. One of the minorities represented in Parliament is the Bulgarian minority.
On this day, events and celebrations are organised by Romanian state institutions and national minority organisations. On this occasion, we also find out what message a Bulgarian woman from Teleorman sent on National Minorities Day.
Bianca Vasile, a 33-year-old Romanian citizen of Bulgarian ethnicity, is a third-year PhD student at the University of Bucharest, in the Doctoral School of Political Science. She is a journalist and has been working for over ten years in the field of national minorities and environmental protection. She is a member of the Bulgarian minority, has written projects for young people and children of national minorities and is active in NGOs, campaigning for the respect of human rights, the promotion of ethnic communities and the preservation of national heritage.
“On National Minorities Day, we are happy to celebrate cultural and linguistic diversity in Romania, as well as being an opportunity to recognise the significant contribution that ethnic people make to the national heritage.
This day of celebration invites us to reflect on the importance of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The rights of national minorities are fundamental to building a fair and inclusive society. Legislation that protects ethnic people and their communities is a firm commitment to the principles of a strengthened democracy.
In a changing world, where diversity is an inevitable reality, our unity in respecting ethnic rights becomes essential for a harmonious and multi-ethnic Romania.
Together, we can create an environment where ethnic diversity is seen as a source of learning and cultural enrichment for tomorrow’s generations. Children and young people need to know about Romania’s ethnic communities.
In every dance, song and custom, we find deep roots that link us to the past and guide us to the future. The stories and traditions shared by each national minority give colour and depth to our common history.
Happy birthday, whatever your ethnicity! Celebrate National Minorities Day with joy and continue to contribute to the beautification of Multiethnic Romania,” concluded Bianca Vasile’s message.
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