Family is one of the main links connecting Romanians living abroad with their country of origin, according to the Diaspora Barometer, a study conducted by INSCOP Research for Banca Transilvania Group.
According to the research, 56% of Romanians have connections with the diaspora, whether through their own experience of migration, family members or other people close to them who live or have lived abroad.
The study highlights that leaving the country does not necessarily mean severing ties with Romania. These connections are maintained through family relationships, property ownership, financial transfers, professional relationships and participation in civic life.
Remus Ștefureac, founder and director general of INSCOP Research, explained that migration has become an important part of Romanian society.
“Moving abroad does not, in most cases, mean breaking ties with one’s home country,” he emphasised.
The effects of migration on families
According to the findings, more than 17% of respondents have children living abroad.
The research shows that migration can bring economic benefits to families who remain in Romania, but it can also create difficulties in relationships between family members.
About 51% of respondents mention weakened relationships, while 46% describe children growing up without one or both parents.
Financial support is another important aspect of the relationship between the diaspora and Romania.
More than 60% of people who live or have lived abroad have sent money to Romania.
Among those who made such transfers, approximately one-third provided financial support regularly.
They used the money mainly for everyday family expenses, education, healthcare, housing, and repaying financial obligations.
Reasons for returning to Romania
The Barometer also examines factors that could influence Romanians living abroad to return home.
Approximately 32% cite the desire to be closer to family.
Regarding the future of children and young people in their families, approximately 36% of respondents would like them to live in Romania, while 29% believe they should settle wherever they have the best opportunities.
INSCOP Research conducted the research between August and September 2026 through telephone interviews with a sample of more than 1,400 adults in Romania.
The sample is representative of the country’s non-institutionalised population aged 18 and over. The maximum margin of error is ±2.6 percentage points, at a 95% confidence level.
Banca Transilvania presented the findings in a press release on Wednesday.
Banca Transilvania expects to publish the full Diaspora Barometer report by the end of 2026.
