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Hungarian Human Rights Foundation Fellowship Program: A Transformative Experience in Advocacy and Diplomacy

Bence Vivien írása

For over 48 years, the Hungarian Human Rights Foundation (HHRF) has been a leading advocate for the rights of ethnic Hungarians around the world. As a key organization in preserving and promoting the cultural and political rights of Hungarian minorities in Eastern Europe, HHRF plays a crucial role in global human rights advocacy. Through its Fellowship Program, the foundation provides participants with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in advocacy, diplomacy, and international relations, while deepening their understanding of human rights and minority protections.

This article highlights the journey of Vivien Bence, the latest HHRF Fellow, who shares her experiences from her fellowship in Budapest and Washington, D.C., offering insights into her time working on behalf of ethnic Hungarian communities.

Vivien Bence’s time as an HHRF Fellow has been an exceptional journey. Starting with a training period in Budapest, Vivien spent six months in Washington, D.C., working on various advocacy projects aimed at raising awareness about the issues facing ethnic Hungarian communities. She participated in numerous high-profile conferences, met with U.S. lawmakers, and traveled across the United States to engage with Hungarian-American communities. Vivien views her fellowship as a pivotal experience, both personally and professionally.

Can you tell us about your experience as an HHRF Fellow?

My experience as an HHRF Fellow has been truly exceptional, both personally and professionally. The program began with training in Budapest, followed by six months in Washington, D.C., where I had the opportunity to engage in various advocacy and diplomatic activities. Over the course of my fellowship, I participated in conferences, organized events, and traveled across multiple U.S. states to raise awareness of the challenges facing ethnic Hungarian communities, particularly in Transcarpathia.

What key events and conferences did you participate in during your time in the U.S.?

I was fortunate to attend and contribute to several prestigious international events during my fellowship. These included among others, the NATO Summit 2024, the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., and the UN Summit for the Future Action Days in New York. Participation in these events allowed me to network with global experts on issues such as the future of Ukraine and the role of ethnic Hungarians in international relations.

Additionally, I participated in discussions hosted by leading think tanks and universities, including the Wilson Center, Hudson Institute, Centre for Strategic and International Studies and the Atlantic Council. These events were instrumental in deepening my understanding of global political dynamics, while presenting reports on the situation of ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine.

How did the fellowship support your advocacy for ethnic Hungarian rights?

A significant part of my journey was advocating for the rights of ethnic Hungarians, particularly in Ukraine, where many of our communities are facing serious challenges. I spoke at events in several U.S. states, addressing human rigths issues such as language rights, property restitution, and educational equality of Hungarian minorities.

I also hosted webinars such as “Ukraine’s EU Accession Talks: Progress and Challenges in Minority Rights,” where experts discussed the legal and cultural hurdles facing the Hungarian community in Ukraine. These events helped bring attention to these challenges among U.S. policymakers as well as a broader audience.

What was your experience traveling across the U.S. and engaging with Hungarian-American communities?

Traveling across the U.S. was a highlight of my fellowship. I visited eight states, including Florida, New York, and Massachusetts, where I met with dynamic Hungarian-American communities, from major urban centers to smaller towns.

I gave lectures on the ongoing struggles faced by ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine, such as language rights and educational inequality. By raising awareness about these issues these lecture were helpful to strengthen HHRF’s relationships with Hungarian-American communities.

How did the fellowship prepare you for future challenges in diplomacy and international relations?

One of the most valuable aspects of the fellowship was the mentorship I received from experienced professionals in diplomacy and international relations. I had the opportunity to engage directly with U.S. lawmakers and their staff and provide first hand information on the situation facing the Hungarian minority. This experience provided me with insights into U.S. foreign policy and how advocacy can influence legislative and diplomatic outcomes.

I also participated in a three-month Business Communication Program at Georgetown University, which significantly enhanced my professional communication skills. These experiences have equipped me with the knowledge and confidence needed to advocate effectively for ethnic Hungarians, both in the U.S. and on the international stage.

What role did the Hungarian American Coalition play in your fellowship experience?

The Hungarian American Coalition (Coalition) was instrumental in my fellowship. The HHRF is a founding member of HAC. As the largest umbrella organization of Hungarian-Americans, the Coalition represents over 38,000 members across the U.S. It was a privilege to work closely with them. I assisted in organizing major events like the Coalition’s Annual Gala and the Mikulás Dinner, which brought together leaders from Hungarian-American organizations nationwide. These events fostered dialogue and helped strengthen the bonds within the Hungarian-American community.

Looking back, how do you think your fellowship will shape your future career and advocacy efforts?

The fellowship has been a truly life-changing experience. It has broadened my professional network, equipped me with critical skills in advocacy and diplomacy, and deepened my understanding of the challenges facing ethnic minorities. I’ve gained insights into how policy decisions are made and how we can advocate for change to better support the rights of ethnic Hungarians.

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Conclusion

HHRF’s Fellowship Program offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in hands-on advocacy, diplomacy, and international relations. By participating in conferences, working closely with policymakers, and collaborating with organizations like the Hungarian American Coalition, fellows gain invaluable experience that will shape their future careers and their efforts to defend minority rights.

Vivien Bence’s experience as the latest HHRF Fellow highlights the significant impact of the program—both for the fellows themselves and for the communities they serve.

The fellowship continues to be an essential tool in raising global awareness about the struggles of ethnic Hungarian communities and advocating for their rights on the international stage.