Religion in Northern Macedonia
Population At the country’s most recent census in 2002, Macedonians were the country’s largest population group (64 percent), followed by Albanians (24 percent), Turks (4 percent) and Roma (3 percent).…
North Macedonia, located in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe, is a landlocked country with a diverse cultural heritage and a population of approximately 2 million. Formerly a part of Yugoslavia, North Macedonia gained independence in 1991. The political landscape is characterized by a parliamentary representative democratic system. The country has undergone significant political and social transformations, including a change in its official name from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) to North Macedonia in 2019, resolving a long-standing dispute with Greece. The dominant political parties include the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) and the Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization – Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE). The country has faced challenges related to ethnic tensions, particularly between the Macedonian majority and the Albanian minority. The Ohrid Framework Agreement in 2001 aimed at addressing these issues, granting greater rights to Albanian-speaking citizens. North Macedonia’s strategic location has made it a candidate for European Union (EU) accession, and the government has pursued reforms to meet EU standards. The economy relies on industries such as textiles, agriculture, and services, with ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment and diversify sectors. The capital, Skopje, showcases a blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modernist influences, while the country’s diverse ethnic communities contribute to a rich cultural tapestry. Geopolitically, North Macedonia maintains partnerships with both NATO and the EU, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability and European integration. As North Macedonia navigates the challenges of democratic consolidation, economic development, and interethnic harmony, its progress toward EU accession and ongoing efforts to address historical and cultural complexities contribute to the evolving narrative of this Balkan nation on the global stage. COMPUTERMINUS: Features political system of Macedonia.
Population At the country’s most recent census in 2002, Macedonians were the country’s largest population group (64 percent), followed by Albanians (24 percent), Turks (4 percent) and Roma (3 percent).…