Political Overview
The Republic of North Macedonia, with its capital in Skopje, operates as a parliamentary democracy where executive power is vested in the government headed by the Prime Minister, and the President serves as head of state in a largely ceremonial role. Since gaining independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991, North Macedonia has pursued closer ties with the European Union and NATO becoming a full NATO member in March 2020 and remains a candidate for EU accession. The central political arena in Skopje often centers on balancing the interests of the ethnic Macedonian majority and the sizable Albanian minority, a dynamic enshrined in the Ohrid Framework Agreement of 2001.
Cultural Heritage and Identity
Skopje stands not only as the political capital but also as the cultural heart of the nation, showcasing Ottoman-era bazaars, Byzantine churches, and a modern array of museums. Beyond the capital, the lakeside town of Ohrid is a major tourism area renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is recognized by UNESCO for its ancient churches, open-air theatre, and emblematic Lake Ohrid itself. North Macedonia’s identity is further celebrated through its vibrant folk music traditions, colorful festivals such as the Ohrid Summer Festival, and a cuisine that blends Mediterranean and Balkan flavors elements that have earned it growing recognition on Europe’s cultural map.
Geographical Landscape, Area and Climate
Covering roughly 25,700 square kilometers in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, North Macedonia’s terrain is dominated by rugged mountains, high plateaus, and interspersed valleys. Skopje lies in the Vardar River valley, which serves as the country’s main transportation corridor and hosts vineyards and fruit orchards that attract agrotourism. Popular tourism areas also include Mavrovo National Park celebrated for its scenic lakes and ski resorts and the Demir Kapija gorge, known for rock climbing and white-water rafting. The country experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates: hot, dry summers in lower valleys and cold, snowy winters in the higher elevations, which together support a diverse range of outdoor recreational opportunities that have earned North Macedonia acclaim among ecotourists and adventure travelers.
