Arrangement

The Republic of Macedonia achieved its EU candidate status in 2005, only 4 years after the cessation of the inter-ethnic armed conflict through the “Ohrid Framework Agreement”. However, the continued dispute with Greece over the constitutional name has prevented initiation of negotiations. The European Commission recommended in October, for the fifth consecutive year, that negotiations should be opened.

It added though, that reforms should continue, with “particular focus on the independence and competence of the courts, freedom of expression and relations with the media, electoral reforms, a concrete corruption track record and the implementation of the recommendations of the review of the Ohrid Framework Agreement.” Furthermore, it states that “20 years after the country's entry into the United Nations, a solution to the 'name issue', under UN auspices, should be found"

This seminar asks:

• What is the prospect of Macedonia’s EU accession?
• How has EU Foreign Policy and the Enlargement process impacted on Macedonia?
• How are the inter-ethnic relations today, 12 years after Ohrid?
• How does the stalled integration resulting from the ‘name issue’ impact on the political climate, domestic reforms, and popular support for the EU?

Program 11.00 - 12.30:

• Introduction H.E. Ambassador Enver Abdulahi
  , Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia
• CommentsKarsten Friis
  , NUPI
• Q & A