The Hungarian authorities’ repressive policy towards communists and soviet sympathizers in Transcarpathia (1939–1941)

Abstract

Abstract. Purpose. The aim of this article is to analyze the characteristics of the repressive policies pursued by the Hungarian authorities against the communist underground and individuals with pro-Soviet sympathies in the Transcarpathian region between 1939 and 1941. The article examines the preconditions for the formation of this policy, determined by the region’s geopolitical position as a border zone with the USSR and by the ideological stance of the Hungarian political regime, which had taken shape as early as the interwar period. The transformation of the communist movement following the establishment of the Hungarian administration is analyzed, which manifested itself in a shift to clandestine activity, the re-establishment of underground cells, and the creation of links with Soviet intelligence services. The main areas of underground activity are highlighted, in particular propaganda work, the distribution of illegal press, the organization of intelligence groups, and the collection of military and strategic information. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of pro-Soviet sentiments among the population, which manifested themselves in support for the communist movement, the dissemination of pro-Soviet symbols, and defections to the territory of the USSR. It is shown that these phenomena were driven by both ideological and socio-economic factors. Based on an analysis of the source material, the scale of arrests, criminal prosecutions, and the dismantling of underground organizations has been established, and measures to strengthen border controls have been described. The scientific novelty of the study lies in substantiating the thesis of a direct link between the intensification of repressive measures and the expansion of intelligence and sabotage activities by the communist underground in conditions of military and political instability. Conclusions. At the same time, it has been demonstrated that the repressive policy of the Hungarian authorities was not of a totalitarian nature: persecution was applied primarily to active participants in underground activities, whilst individuals with a communist past were often placed under administrative supervision. It is concluded that Hungary’s repressive practices in Transcarpathia were selective and situational, largely dependent on the foreign policy climate, the level of underground activity, and the dynamics of Hungarian-Soviet relations, serving as an instrument to ensure state security in the border region.