This research was undertaken with support from the European Community's Phare ACE Programme 1998.

• Project Dates: 2001
• Project Leader: Christopher Ray
• Sponsors: PHARE/ACE

The objective of this research was to reflect on the transferability of the neo-endogenous approach to rural socio-economic development to the Hungarian situation. In other words, could the approach be of material benefit to the more vulnerable areas of Hungary upon entry into the European Union. What Hungary has going for it is a keen awareness of its history and cultural diversity. This pervades all realms of society. Although (cautiously) embracing the new realities of globalisation, neo-liberal market economics and membership of the European Union, a debate is on-going within Hungary about how to hold-on to, and to valorise, aspects of Hungarian specificity. The findings of the research were structured around six topics: artisan producers; the 'neo-peasant'; ethno-cultural diversity and Transylvania; folk music and dance; the role of schools; and the ethno-cultural issue of the Roma.