Synopsis
National symbols play an important role in the life of a nation. They are not only the embodiment of historical continuity, but also representations of national identity and sense of identity. Classical national symbols, such as the flag, the national anthem or the coat of arms, are enshrined in Hungary’s Fundamental Law. In many cases, there are specific rules on the use and protection of national symbols, and their desecration is a criminal offence. However, there are also symbols that do not enjoy special protection, but which nevertheless express the sense of identity of the members of a nation.
However, national symbols are usually not only an expression of citizens’ sense of identity. On the one hand, they embody the sovereignty and constitutional identity of the nation as a political community and, on the other hand, they express the individual sense of identity of the members of the political community: belonging to the community, to the nation.
But how are national symbols created? When does something, a moment in history or a work of art, become a symbol, and what determines whether this symbol defines the identity of the members of a nation? Should we distinguish between the categories of state symbols and national symbols?
According to the National Avowal of the Fundamental Law of Hungary, „Our Fundamental Law is the foundation of our legal system, a covenant between the Hungarians of the past, present and future. It is a living framework that expresses the will of the nation, the form in which we want to live.” Theroundtable discussion addressed, among other questions, whether a nation’s constitution can be a national symbol in itself, and whether the Fundamental Law can be considered a national symbol in Hungary.
