Internal migration and stigmatization in the rural Banat region of Romania

Eastern Europe has seen considerable social, economic and political upheaval since 1989. Migration has been an important element of this change, with the removal of restrictions enabling individuals to move in search of opportunities. Resulting patterns of internal migration rest on a longer history of movement, linked to the communist-era pursuit of economic development and modernization. Proximity to Western Europe has seen some regions receive greater migrant flows, leading to resentment and distancing among the resident population. Focusing on rural settlements in the Banat region, southwestern Romania, this article examines how receiving communities perceive the effects of internal migration. The findings suggest entrenched stereotypes established during the communist-era remain prominent in patterns of stigmatization and maintenance of social distance. They also point to underlying tensions between the desire to protect local culture and tradition, while ensuring the continued viability of small settlements in the face of threats of depopulation.

Automated summary

Eastern Europe has undergone significant social, economic, and political changes since 1989, with migration playing a crucial role in this transformation. The lifting of restrictions has allowed individuals to seek better opportunities through internal migration. The patterns of movement can be traced back to the communist era, when economic development and modernization were pursued. Proximity to Western Europe has led to resentment and distancing among certain regions, while rural settlements in southwestern Romania have provided insights into how receiving communities perceive the effects of internal migration. The study findings highlight the continued prominence of stereotypes from the communist era, as well as the tension between protecting local culture and the viability of small settlements in the face of depopulation threats.