INTER-ETHNIC REPRESENTATION IN NORTH MACEDONIA’S FOREIGN POLICY

Gjeraqina Leka

Abstract

This article tries to explore the reasons behind a newly-emerged inter-ethnic division, which seems to be motivated more by external than by internal factors. In this quest, the object of analysis in this paper is foreign policy, the knot which links inter-ethnic relations with foreign disputes that North Macedonia faces. In pursuing this aim the article begins by exploring the foreign policy developments since the state’s independence in 1991 to the present day. It pays special attention to the inter-ethnic preferences over the foreign policy orientation, in particular towards its Euro-Atlantic integration agenda. And more importantly, it analyzes the inter-ethnic participation and involvement in foreign policy making, including its approach towards the bilateral open disputes with neighboring states. The article draws conclusions on inter-ethnic participation in foreign policy and the impact it produces both externally and internally, based on the findings which derive from qualitative data gathered in the period of 2017-2018.

Pages: 47 - 59