On 6 March 2011, far-right political party Jobbik held a rally in Gyöngyöspata. Paramilitary groups later entered Roma areas, issued a “Rules of Coexistence” document, and conducted “patrolling” activities that reportedly involved intimidation and criminal acts over two weeks.
Consequenses
In 2011 the far-right Jobbik party held an anti-Roma rally in Gyöngyöspata, which was soon followed by the arrival of uniformed vigilante groups. The presence of these groups led to intimidation, harassment, and violence against Roma residents, resulting in fear and temporary displacement of many families.
The authorities responded slowly and inadequately, which was widely criticised, exposing failures in police protection and legal action against hate crimes. The events drew national and international attention, highlighting systemic discrimination and prompting legal changes, such as amendments to the Criminal Code to address vigilante violence. However, the measures taken did not fully resolve tensions, and the Roma community continued to face marginalisation and insecurity.
“[The Roma of Gyöngyöspata] had as little influence over the unfolding events as the ball has in a game of football.”
Opinion article about the events from journalist Földes András
Further Reading / Sources
Gyöngyöspata 2011: A magyarországi szélsőjobboldal laboratóriuma: A politikai mozgósítás és az interetnikus konfliktus elemzése és tanulságai
Szombati Kristóf, Feischmidt Margit (2012). Budapest: Ökopolisz Alapítvány
A szegénység kisajátítása és szimbolikus újrakeretezése: Az „érdemtelenek” rasszizálása és az „érdemesek” etnicizálása. Gyöngyöspata tanulásága
Feischmidt Margit, Szombati Kristóf (2018). Magyar Tudomány, 179(6): 885-901
The Revolt of the Provinces. Anti-Gypsyism and Right-Wing Politics in Hungary
Szombati Kristóf (2018). New York, Berghahn Books