The name dispute: Northern Macedonia and Greece

Paper title:	*Main Dynamics of Name Dispute: Northern Macedonia and Greece*
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.4316/CC.2020.01.012
Published in:	Issue 1, (Vol. 26) / 2020
Publishing date:	2020-07-31
Pages:	207-224
Author(s):	Ayça Eminoğlu, Buğrahan Emir
Abstract:	Macedonia is a critical region in terms of stability in the Balkans, its territory experienced many conflicts throughout history, some of which have still remained unsolved. For example, the dispute with Greece over the country’s name has been a major problem for Macedonia's integration into the international community. This study aims to identify important historical factors in the relations between Greece and the Republic of Northern Macedonia, which have facilitated, inter alia, the settlement of the name dispute and the reasons for finding such solutions in a time of power gap separating the two countries. Undoubtedly, frictions between neighboring states had to be resolved to ensure a stable and secure environment in the Balkans. When resuming the analysis of the historical process, it is clear that despite some progress in the dialogue, no concrete results have been achieved. Lately, by taking decisive action and making some concessions, the governments of the two countries have taken an open position in the negotiations and tried to reduce the tension by concluding certain agreements. In this context, the authors identify six different factors that have facilitated the mediation of these issues between the two countries, trying to explain why this solution could be found today and not at some other time in history.
Keywords:	Greece, Republic of Northern Macedonia, Name Issue, Reconciliation, Peace, Integration.

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