BORDER STUDIES

Border Studies seem to be something very foreign issue from the perspective of everyday life. But it is not true. Only researchers can give an answer to the questions on ’How many people cross the border annually at a crossing, with which frequency and with which goals?’ Similarly, scientists can help us in identifying the volume of cross-border labour and student mobility; how many people moved here from the other side of the border; how many foreign patients are treated in the medical centres; etc. What is more, without applying scientific methods, no one can tell us how the border citizens consider their neighbours – on the other side of the border.

Above information is essential for integrated cross-border planning, project and institutional development but even for the shaping of national and European policies.

CESCI has been investigating the processes along the Hungarian and Central European borders since its establishment in order to answer the above questions, facilitating thus successful planning, programming, development, and decision-making activities. We managed to compile remarkable data bases on the border areas of the Danube Region and on the EGTCs which have Hungarian members; as well as online and printed literature on border issues. Our professional library amounts to above 1500 volumes.

Beside our individual publications we annually publish our English scientific journal  titled ’Cross-Border Review’. We regularly participate in international conferences treating the border issue. What is more, also our association organises conferences and series of lectures. The background of our scientific activities is provided by our research institute.