Abstract:
The diverse society of Romania and its history of challenges related to minority rights provide an important setting for studying the impact of advertising on social cohesion and identity. This study uses a mixed-methods approach to examine how inclusive advertising influences self-perception among both minority and majority groups in a post-communist society. The research combines a survey to gather quantitative data and focus groups to explore audience responses in depth. The findings indicate that inclusive advertising can promote civic awareness and help reduce societal divisions rooted in historical and cultural tensions, but in time. This study contributes to the broader discussion on the role of advertising in driving social change, particularly in societies experiencing transition and division.