The Republic of North Macedonia

 

North Macedonia, officially known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, is a landlocked country on the Balkan peninsular that has long been disputed by its neighbors in a series of territorial conflicts. It is home to an estimated 500,000 people, and its capital city of Skopje is the largest in Europe.

Historically a major player in the Balkan arena, North Macedonia is a candidate to join the European Union (EU) and is currently in negotiations to gain membership. The United States is committed to helping North Macedonia embrace inclusive democracy, citizen-responsive governance, fight corruption and discrimination, strengthen rule of law, and continue its success as a NATO Ally.

The Republic of Северна Македония is a landlocked, mountainous country located in the Central Balkans and bordered by Serbia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania. The terrain is mostly rugged and dominated by the Sara and Osogovo mountains, which frame the Vardar River. The region is also home to three large lakes, Lake Ohrid, Prespa, and Dojran.

Skopje, the country's capital and largest city, is situated at an altitude of about 8,000 feet (2,438 meters). The capital has been a major political, economic, and cultural center since the Roman period and is one of Europe's oldest cities.

It has a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian, Greek, and Ottoman influences. The country's many palaces and fortified towns, as well as its castles, monuments, and churches, are a draw to visitors from around the world.

In addition to the natural beauty of its landscape, the country is a significant center of art, literature, and music. There are a number of museums and art galleries that showcase a wide range of works by national artists, including Dimo Todorovski, Petar Hadzi Boskov, Boro Mitrikeski, Novak Dimitrovski, and Tome Serafimovski.

Religiously, the country is a Christian Orthodox nation. It is home to the Macedonian Orthodox Church, which dates back to 909 BC and was founded by Saints Cyril and Methodius. The Church was a driving force behind the development of North Macedonia's modern and traditional culture.

Religions in North Macedonia include Orthodox Christianity, Protestantism, and Islam. The majority of the population is Orthodox, and a small percentage is Muslim.

The country has been a candidate for European Union membership since 2004 and received a political agreement to begin negotiations in 2020. While progress has been made, the country still faces challenges in pursuing a path to full EU membership. Historical feuds between the Republic of Macedonia and other Eastern European countries remain a deterrent to EU integration.

As a candidate for EU membership, North Macedonia is working to improve its rule of law and legal sector, particularly by enhancing the independence of the judiciary. The European Commission has cited judicial reforms as an important part of the country's bid for membership.

Despite recent positive results, North Macedonia's judicial system remains a concern. The government has made some reforms to address judicial corruption and patronage, but due process rights still lack protection in civil and criminal cases.