Springtime in December: My Second Fulbright Research Trip to Sfântu Gheorghe Nestled where the Danube meets the Black Sea, the village of Sfântu Gheorghe has always felt like a place caught between worlds, land and water, past and present. Over the past few days, I have had the privilege of immersing myself in this unique …
Springtime in November: My Second Fulbright Research Trip to Sfântu Gheorghe Read More »
The Danube Delta stands as one of Europe’s most unique and fragile ecosystems, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with biodiversity and home to communities whose livelihoods have long been intertwined with its waters. Yet, like many such regions, it faces growing pressures from climate change, environmental degradation, and competing human needs. To gain deeper …
A Day at the Heart of Delta Conservation: My Visit to DDNI Read More »
This December marks 35 years since the Romanian Revolution of 1989, a pivotal event that led to the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s brutal communist regime. For Romanians and for the world, this anniversary serves as both a commemoration of courage and a reflection on the enduring importance of freedom, justice, and democratic resilience. The Historical …
35 Years Since the Romanian Revolution: A Turning Point for Freedom and Democracy Read More »
Introduction On December 12, 2024, the European Commission welcomed the Council’s unanimous decision to lift internal land border controls with Romania and Bulgaria as of 1 January 2025. As such, Romania will achieve full Schengen membership alongside Bulgaria, a monumental moment for both countries and the European Union. Ursula von der Leyen’s statement—“Fully in Schengen—where …
Romania Fully in Schengen: A New Chapter for Europe and Beyond Read More »
Saint Nicholas Eve in Romania: A Tradition of Gifts and Mischief As the crisp December air settles over Romania, excitement builds for one of the most beloved traditions of the season: Saint Nicholas Eve. On the night of December 5th, children across the country diligently wash their shoes and place them by the door or …
Saint Nicholas Eve in Romania: A Tradition of Gifts and Mischief Read More »
December 1 marks Romania’s National Day, a celebration steeped in history, pride, and cultural significance. Known as Ziua Națională, this day commemorates the unification of Transylvania, Banat, Crișana, and Maramureș with Romania in 1918. This monumental event, known as the Great Union (Marea Unire), laid the foundation for modern Romania and is a cherished moment in …
Romania’s National Day: A Celebration of Unity and Heritage Read More »
On December 3, 2024, Romania’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe will host a special event in Strasbourg to celebrate the country’s National Day. The highlight of the evening will be the screening of the documentary “Wild Danube,” directed by British journalist Charlie Ottley. This film offers a captivating journey through the Danube Delta …
Celebrating Romania’s National Day: Showcasing the Danube Delta at the Council of Europe Read More »
This year, I will celebrate Thanksgiving in Romania, a world away from the traditions and comforts of California. This holiday, deeply tied to American culture, feels different when you are abroad, but perhaps that is where its meaning shines the brightest. It is an opportunity to adapt, connect, and reflect on gratitude in a new …
Thanksgiving Abroad: Preparing to Celebrate Gratitude in Romania Read More »
On November 30, Romania celebrates the Feast of Saint Andrew, a deeply significant day in the Orthodox calendar and a public holiday across the country. Known as the Protector of Romania, Saint Andrew holds a special place in the hearts of Romanians, not just for his role in the Christianization of these lands, but also as a unifying …
Saint Andrew: Protector of Romania and Patron Saint of Unity Read More »
Reflections on the REFLECT International Conference: Bridging Research and Dialogue in Sibiu This week, I had the privilege of presenting at the REFLECT International Conference hosted by Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu. This year’s theme, “Fostering Cross-disciplinary Reflections to Bridge Societal Divides,” provided a dynamic platform for researchers from diverse fields to engage in meaningful discussions …
