The Influence of Bulgarian Horticulture on Twinning in Hungary – read the full article by Nóra Baranyai and Petra Kézai in Intersections journal

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the historical and cultural significance of Bulgarian horticulture in Hungary and its influence on the development of twinning relationships between Bulgarian and Hungarian municipalities.

The study employs a comprehensive analysis of historical literature and census data from 2001 to 2022 to characterise the Bulgarian minority in Hungary and track its historical changes. The research utilises databases from the National Association of Municipalities in Hungary (TÖOSZ) and the National Union of Local Governments in Bulgaria (NSORB) to identify and examine twinning relationships between municipalities. Interviews with cultural and community representatives supplement the analysis. The study investigates the motivations behind twinning, emphasising intraethnic cooperation and the desire to strengthen ties between ethnic minorities and their kin states. The research identifies specific partnerships that were established due to the historical presence of Bulgarian communities in Hungary. The findings suggest that while Bulgarian–Hungarian twinning relations are rare; they reflect a unique form of cultural heritage and promote collaboration in addressing local and global challenges. The paper contributes to understanding how historical ties and cultural practices influence contemporary international relations at the municipal level.