Autonomist Regions and the EU. Scotland and Szeklerland : A Comparative Perspective

Abstract: The ability to successfully manage finances is considered to be proof of self-sufficiency and maturity. It is valid in the case of individuals as in the case of countries and regions. In an un-premeditated feedback loop, the EU funds are designed to create stronger regional autonomy which in turn fosters stronger demands of more funds particularly customized on regional identity and aimed at creating more regional power. Furthermore, when separate ethnic identity comes into picture emphasizing different interests from a perspective outside the majority, direct decision-making and enhanced space for manoeuvre becomes surprisingly appealing. It is not yet the time for a Europe of Regions; still, powers are being shifted within the national level. The present thesis hopes to define new concepts into the scholar research in understanding the EU-enhanced behaviour of autonomist regions.