Territorial identity - a dynamic process and vector of local and regional development: Case study: Bukovina (Romania)

Abstract

Bukovina's identity is a complex construction that reflects the historical, cultural and social influences which marked the region over time; and they are often summarised in its period of flourishing when Bukovina belonged to the Habsburg and then to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The present study used data collected through an online survey and it aims to highlight aspects of Bukovina's identity based on the perceptions of the population living in the southern part of the former province of Bukovina, as well as of the inhabitants outside Bukovina area. The results of the research revealed that the strongest identity is that of belonging to a clearly defined administrative-territorial unit - Suceava County (north of Romania). However, the territorial self-identification as Bukovinian was mentioned by a significant proportion of respondents, as very little different from those who self-identified themselves as Sucevians. Among the elements on which the perceived Bukovinian identity is based, we explored: self-identification; differentiation from the Moldavians; the way of relating to the authorities and traditions; sharing common values. The territorial component was less important in shaping a Bukovinian identity, which could be a result of the transformation of this real identity by the local authorities into a regional brand for a territory with blurred boundaries.