Thousands of individuals are advocating for Wales to be known solely as Cymru. A petition gathered over 12,000 signatures in support of this initiative. However, a counter-petition emerged, citing the proposal as a wasteful use of taxpayers’ money and garnered significant backing as well. The original petition argued that the name “Wales” was imposed and not inherently Welsh, unlike Cymru, which reflects the country’s unique language and culture. On the other hand, the counter-petition insisted that both names should coexist without unnecessary expenditure.
The Senedd’s petition committee deliberated on both petitions, drawing parallels with other countries’ name changes, such as Türkiye and Czechia. Within Wales, Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons have already transitioned to using their Welsh names predominantly. Despite efforts to promote Cymru, Wales remains the internationally recognised name, with discussions even extending to the Football Association of Wales about adopting Cymru as their official title.
The Welsh Government responded by affirming that both “Cymru” and “Wales” are acceptable, emphasising the importance of individual identity and national pride. The Cabinet Secretary underscored the freedom of choice between the two names. The petitions will continue to be debated, with no official commitment to a single title. The debate signifies the ongoing dialogue on language, heritage, and national identity within Wales.
As discussions persist in the Senedd, the future of Wales’ name remains open to interpretation. The exploration of dual identities reflects the country’s rich history and diverse linguistic landscape. Both Cymru and Wales stand as symbols of Welsh heritage, inviting ongoing discourse and reflection on the nation’s cultural tapestry.