VOICED: Romania's 'Old Believers' cling to traditions

The video explores the history and cultural challenges faced by the Lipovans, descendants of Russian Orthodox Church dissidents in Romania. It highlights the struggle to maintain their identity as younger generations lose touch with their Russian roots and traditional songs. Efforts by individuals like George, who runs a Lipovan magazine, and families like Olympia and Vladimir's, who pass on traditions to their children, are crucial in preserving their heritage. Despite official figures showing 38,000 Lipovans in Romania, community leaders estimate the number to be closer to 100,000, emphasizing the importance of sustaining their age-old traditions.

What is a significant challenge faced by the Lipovan community in Romania?

• Lack of educational resources

• Forgetting the Russian language and traditional songs

• Economic instability

• Political oppression

How does George contribute to preserving the Lipovan identity?

• By creating a documentary film

• By teaching Russian language classes

• By running a magazine for Lipovans

• By organizing cultural festivals

What motivates George to maintain his identity?

• The influence of his family

• A desire to travel the world

• Pressure from the community

• A personal commitment to being himself

What cultural practice do Olympia and Vladimir emphasize to their children?

• Russian language classes

• Traditional Easter lunch

• Historical storytelling

• Folk dance performances

What is the estimated range of the Lipovan population in Romania?

• 100,000 to 150,000

• 38,000 to 100,000

• 50,000 to 70,000

• 10,000 to 20,000