Abstract
This paper addresses the paradox of identity continuity and identity change with regard to different national minorities in 'old' and 'new' (post-2004) European Union member states, and sheds light on how Europeanization processes may influence these developments. For national minority groups, identifying as ‘different’ from the majority population is essential, as its difference (e.g. in language and culture) provides the basis for demanding group rights and safeguarding measures. Keeping a distinct minority identity is therefore important for its long-term goals of preserving its identifying and differentiating features. On the other hand, minority identity does not exist in a vacuum, but is heavily influenced by socio-political processes, such as European integration. The main argument of the paper is that identity continuity and identity change are not mutually exclusive concepts, but rather that they precede, overlap and complement each other. The paper looks at the conditions under which identity becomes permeable, and how shifts in emphasis on minority identity take place. The German-speaking minority in South Tyrol (Italy), the Italian minority in Istria (Croatia) and the German minority in Silesia (Poland) will serve as case studies to illustrate these developments.