ABSTRACT
All over Europe reemerging nationalism aggravates the situation of minorities. Research shows that in the region, specifically in Hungary, prejudice against Gypsies has grown. The Gypsies are the biggest losers in the transition process. Neither the country nor the Gypsy community was prepared for the effects of the transition. Because of a lack of basic living conditions, Gypsy families that are multiply disadvantaged cannot join the market economy. Most Gypsies live in extreme poverty, have large families, and are unemployed and unskilled. Most Gypsy families are single-income families. Gypsy families are known for having many children. Family planning has never existed; women become mothers as early as age fourteen. The Hungarian Gypsy community is characterized by a kind of social stratification that is similar to a caste system. A young person beginning a relationship with someone from a lower caste is scorned. Relationships, however, are based on emotions and not prearranged; eloping is very common for young couples.
