Local turn in solidarity

Potentials and constraints in the reception of displaced Ukrainians in Hungary

Abstract

This study examines how cooperation and alliance-building between civil society and local government actors in supporting refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine has contributed to establishing and strengthening solidarity relations. We show how solidarity with displaced Ukrainian citizens has been organized and sustained. We also explore the structural factors, relationships, resources, and discourses that contributed to this being understood as a local turn in refugee solidarity in Hungary. Although our analysis focuses primarily on local civil society actors, we also consider how the Hungarian state and international humanitarian agencies have localized responsibility for refugees. Our study also explores the role of Hungarian municipalities in hosting refugees in Ukraine and how this activity has contributed to a redefinition of municipal responsibility.