ROMANIA - President Nicușor Dan signed law 10/2026 declaring 2026 the Year of Iancu de Hunedoara. The decree follows months of cultural events and debates over the medieval figure's Romanian or Hungarian origins. Iancu, also known as Ioan de Hunedoara, was a 15th‑century military commander and regent in the Kingdom of Hungary. His heritage has been claimed by both Romania and Hungary, sparking scholarly disputes. The law will see nationwide commemorations in Hunedoara and Transylvania. The declaration has been welcomed by Romanian historians but criticized by some Hungarian officials for politicizing shared heritage. The debate continues over Iancu's ethnicity, with Romanian historians citing Romanian roots and Hungarian scholars arguing for Hungarian or Cuman background. The move highlights Romania's efforts to strengthen national identity through historical figures. The year will be marked by festivals, exhibitions and academic conferences across the country.

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