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9 September 2011

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Atlas of Stateless Nations in Europe

By Mikael Bodlore-Penlaez
Y Lolfa Publications,
Aberystwyth, Wales. Price: £14.95

Reviewed by Mark Moloney

THE ‘Atlas of Stateless Nations in Europe’ by Breton author Mikael Bodlore-Penlaez is an informative introduction to the various ethnic, linguistic and cultural minorities striving for autonomy and independence throughout this continent.
The book provides the reader with a fascinating insight into a “hidden Europe” where people’s identities have either been suppressed or overlooked. It ranges from the more well-known peoples such as the Basques, Catalans and Flemish to often unheard of minorities such as the Ladins, Aromanians and the Arpitans.
Highly-detailed maps and illustrations showing the demographic, linguistic and cultural breakdown of the various European regions are included throughout the book along with information on groups who had previously been described as ‘minorities’ but who have now attained national independence. Indeed, since the break-up of the Soviet Union, many minority regions have emerged as independent nations.
I do have, however, a minor criticism of the book. When grouping together political parties into categories ranging from “Revolutionary Communist” to “Far Right” nationalists, the author lists Sinn Féin as “Social Democrats” while the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) are classed as “Progressive Socialists”!
Overall, the ‘Atlas of Stateless Nations in Europe’ is a long-overdue work which paints a fascinating picture of modern Europe while making the reader question what Europe could be like in years to come.
This book will be a valuable addition for anybody who is interested in international affairs, linguistics, politics or European history.

 

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