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WHAT IS THE HUNGARIAN COUNTRYSIDE LIKE?
Over the past decade or so, the population of small towns has declined by 30% on average, which is the sum of intra-country and inter-country migration. Needless to say, the more mobile, wealthier, more educated, and of course, more flexible, social groups have moved, predominantly under the age of 30.
There are 230 local communities in Hungary with a population between 5 and 50 thousand. These are usually local communities with a long history and a strong image and roots, in which local heroes have their place.
We think in terms of locality because it is the primary and most reassuring field of active social participation. It is on this level that one can experience belonging somewhere, being able to act, as well as the opportunity to connect to others and achieve change.
OUR GRANTEES
Andrea Baraksó-Kovács, Szeghalom
As part of her community work, Andrea plans to implement programs that strengthen local cohesion and encourage the active participation of Szeghalom’s residents. Her goal is for participants to realize how much they can individually contribute to the well-being of their own community, while their collaboration gives rise to new values. This kind of joint effort is especially inspiring for Andrea, as she finds joy in the process of brainstorming and implementation, and it makes her happy to see others take pleasure in the results they have achieved together.
Janka Becsey, Szécsény
Together with the Egyesek Youth Association, their goal is to create a youth community space where local young people can meet freely and safely, learn, and have fun. Over the next three years, they plan to bring the local youth together, support their personal development, and provide them with high-quality programs and opportunities.
Aliz Martók, Szentes
Aliz has been working with young people for 13 years. In her vision, events in Szentes involve various age groups, while Student Week features programs and concerts specifically for youth. Decision-makers include members of the younger generation in the decision-preparation processes, and companies reach out to them through job fairs — their opinions and needs are heard.
Petra Sára Kiss and Zsófia Lázár, Szentendre
In Szentendre, as a suburban settlement, the increasing population has led to more and more areas being built over at the expense of nature. The Zöldendre Association, which was founded by Petra and Zsófia, aims to emphasize the importance of green spaces in the city, both to the local government and to the residents. They are committed to raising public awareness and representing an environmentally conscious approach before the city leadership.
Our interview with Petra Sára and Zsófia.
Anita K.Nagyné Karácsony, Komádi
Her goal is to organize programs that strengthen the sense of belonging and cooperation among the residents of the town. Through their work, they aim to unite even more closely to support the children living in Komádi. Their programs focus on sports, health preservation, and the nurturing of traditions.
Szabolcs Márk Kis, Karcag
Szabolcs wants to improve the community in Karcag: to engage young people and help them see that staying in Karcag is worthwhile. He aims to address conflicts related to ethnic background and work together with people living in segregation to develop the community. His goal is the sustainable management of the community space.
