Forging a Future Europe

March 11, 2016

Macedonia: At Brussels

By Vanessa Nedd, Tamia Daniel, Nina Barber, Nisa Holley, Aajia Hall, Jalen Powell

Introduction

Macedonia is a small country made up of 9,928 miles that is relatively mountainous, forested, and rises only 2,000 meters above sea level. It is inhibited by descendants of Slavic and orthodox Christianity, 500 years of being apart of the ottoman empire has resulted in distinguished ethnic groups like Albanians, Turks, Vlachs, and Roma; or Gypsies. A national language was not established until 1946, it is related to Bulgarian and Serbo­Croatian and written in Cyrillic script. Migrants who have become inhabitants have all settled into diverse patterns; highlands are shepherds, while fertile areas are practicing market oriented agriculture. Along with diverse settling patterns, the daily lives of inhabitants are influenced by the Turks. Population distribution is a continuous problem in Macedonia, the government constantly has to deal with issues of migration. The government has it’s own issues as well, with the relationship of the citizens. There was a wiretapping scandal that influenced the security and the government overall. Along with all these issues the government needs to maintain strong foreign relations and wants join the EU. With joining the EU, there will be mandatory name change and policy adaptations such as NATO. They want to remain independent while also keeping its name. Macedonia is one of the successor states of the former Yugoslavia, from which it ​ ​ ​ ​ declared independence in 1991. It became a member of the United Nations in 1993, but, as a ​ ​ result of an ongoing dispute with Greece, over use of the name Macedonia, it was admitted under ​ ​ the provisional description of "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.” Meanwhile, Russia

is trying to expand its reach over the Baltic states by providing economic means like a pipeline which would help pay off some of Macedonia’s debts. But the United States and other EU members don’t want any of this; the United States tried to maintain its dominance over such Baltic states. Right now there is a power struggle between the United States and Russia over Baltic states and even though Macedonia would like to join the EU and other organizations; Macedonia doesn’t like the United States and Russia is providing good reason not to join. Macedonia remained the poorest of the Yugoslav republics and was included throughout the communist period in the list of regions that merited economic aid from wealthier parts of the federation. While this status undoubtedly brought much investment, several projects were placed without adequate attention to the supply of materials or access to markets. In the mid­1990s, however, Macedonia had begun to find new trading partners, and the economy began to prosper. Though gross domestic product (GDP) dipped at the turn of the 21st century, it rebounded quickly, and the country weathered the worldwide economic downturn that began in 2008 better than many other countries. Manufacturing constituted less than one­fifth of GDP in Macedonia in the early 21st century and accounted for between one­tenth and one­fifth of employment. Because of the presence of mineral resources such as nickel, lead, and zinc in Macedonia, ferrous and nonferrous metallurgy have long been linchpins of the country’s manufacturing sector. Among the principal products associated with this industry are ferronickel, flat­rolled sheet steel, and seamed pipes. Automobile parts, electrical equipment, household appliances, and clothing are also produced, and there are wood­ and plastic­processing industries.

Key Points

● Remaining independent and keeping its name­ There has constantly been a shift in the ​ control of macedonia until 1991 when it declared independent; Macedonia would like to

Macedonia at Brussels 2 remain independent. Also Greece struggles with accepting the name of our country's name and we do not want to change our name to satisfy their needs. ● Using NATO and growing global allies : Macedonia is trying to ensure better security ​ by the usage of the NATO system and working with the U.S and EU. They want to have a smaller more effective military, even with general threat of terrorism in Macedonia. ● Unity between ethnic groups ­ Macedonia has been experiencing tension among the ​ different ethnic groups for competing power and rights. Our country’s goal is to establish a more united Macedonia that is not driven by political / ethnic divide but by common nationalist views. ● Macedonia alliance with russia­ Macedonia is working with Russia on an energy ​ pipeline that would provide revenue to to both nations. The United States doesn’t like the relationship between the two as the United States tries to keep its power and states that the transatlantic relations are still strong. But current intervention would suggest the United States government is trying to overthrow the current government in Macedonia. ● Keeping the Border closed: Macedonia is only 9,928 miles a small country who is ​ incapable of handling and adjusting to the amount of immigrants coming in to seek aid. Macedonia doesn’t have enough defense or security to secure its borders, which is why we use the help of Greece. ● Controlling bribery corruption: Corruption between the government and citizens have ​ ​ ​ gotten so bad that people indulge in bribery at least twice a year minimum for things like healthcare, education, legal documents, and travel. ● Lack of diplomacy­ Because Macedonia is independent but “weak” it is hard to get ​ legislation passed that is meant to protect the country from harm. Without the support of the EU, Macedonia’s diplomatic abilities are limited. ● Preventing unwanted migration­ Macedonia is accessible from several angles which ​ makes it hard for Macedonia to control who can enter. There is already an opposition to interethnic communities.

Macedonia at Brussels 3 Background

Macedonia was formally known as the Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia until September 8, 1991. Macedonia applied to join the European Union in the spring of 2004 and shortly after in 2005, was granted candidate country status. It has made solid economic progress in the last few ​ years and appears to be an ideal candidate for accession to the EU. But a corruption scandal, as well as an ongoing name dispute with Greece, is threatening to derail its development. Greece ​ has consistently blocked the country’s progress towards both NATO and the EU because it views the use of ‘Macedonia’ as an insult. The northern region of Greece is known by the same name, implying a territorial threat, and many Greeks do not accept the country to the north as a nation­state. As a result, an awkward compromise was reached in the 1990s to call the country the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia which macedonia does not like. Also, Macedonia was accused of the phone tapping of up to 20,000 people, including more than 100 journalists. This diminished their integrity and lowered their chances of be accepted into the EU. Although Macedonia was caught wiretapping, Macedonia has great potential and can provide great resources to the EU. Macedonia is comprised of various ethnic groups and cultures including macedonians, albanians, turks, and other small ethnic groups like the serbs and the romani. Unlike many of its neighboring states Macedonia reluctantly avoided much of the violent war that was experienced elsewhere. The were perceived as an example to the other states the were experiencing violent conflict. While Macedonia’s transition was more peaceful the neighboring countries, Macedonia is far from perfect. The range in cultural diversity has prevented Macedonia from establishing its a single nationality. The Macedonian government was accused of running a hegemony in which the macedonian ethnicity greatly benefited from; this has prevented macedonia from being able to be united, even economically. The ethnic conflict that Macedonia is existing is primarily due to the power struggle between macedonians and less represented ethnic groups in Macedonia. After a small,yet violent civil war in 2001, Macedonia established a policy the was created to

Macedonia at Brussels 4 ensure that smaller ethnic groups are given the opportunity to share political power with the macedonians. Presently Macedonia is improving. Success has been illustrated in its ability to recognised that fact that there is a problem and taken the necessary steps to solve it. One of the ways macedonia has succeeded is by power sharing and political compromising to meet the needs of all citizens. None the more there is still more improvements that need to be implemented to establish a more united Macedonia. Macedonia is officially the Republic of Macedonia and is a country located in the central Balkan peninsula in Southeast Europe. It is one of the successor states of the former Yugoslavia, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ from which it declared independence in 1991. It became a member of the United Nations in ​ ​ 1993, but, as a result of an ongoing dispute with Greece over use of the name Macedonia, it was ​ ​ admitted under the provisional description of "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.” The dispute has escalated to the highest level of international mediation, involving numerous attempts to achieve a resolution. Until a solution is found, the provisional reference "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia." However, most UN member countries have abandoned the provisional reference and have recognised the country as the Republic of Macedonia instead. The major interest of the country is a full integration in the European and the Trans­Atlantic ​ integration processes. Five foreign policy priorities are: C​ ommencing negotiations for ​ full­fledged membership in the European Union, Lifting the visa regime for Macedonian ​ ​ nationals, NATO membership, Resolving the naming issue with Greece, Strengthening the economic and public diplomacy. This has led to involvement with Russia and intervention with ​ ​ America. Russia is helping with funds while trying to stake a claim and keep from joining Eu,NATO, and other groups and America is funding an overthrow while trying to stake a claim. The government has been fighting influx of immigrants and increasing amounts of corruption, initiating different types of defenses to tackle both issues. Middle­eastern civil­wars have caused thousands of civilians to flee their homelands in search for a safer and better life elsewhere. EU countries have attracted thousands of migrants to their borders due to the economic and military support that they provide. Macedonia being on the outskirts of Greece makes a perfect pit­stop before finishing their long journey. Defensive tactics to keep migrants at the border have been initiated, such as a fence that covers their border and guards to keep watch

Macedonia at Brussels 5 in case there are attempts to break through. We refuses to destroy our climate and become a mass warehouse for migrants, we are determined to make sure that we keep track of how many immigrants are admitted into the country daily. While fighting influx at the borders, the government deals with corruption of bribery within the borders of Macedonia. Bribery has been used for favors such as illegal identification, documentation papers, and other necessities like medical care, for this the government initiates laws to incriminate anyone par­taking in this illegal activity. Anti­corruption laws like Law on Money Laundering Prevention give the penalty of jail time, discharge from position, and or resignation. In 2006 corruption became their greatest priority and began the push to enforce ‘zero tolerance for corruption’. Macedonia is trying to ensure better security by the usage of the NATO system and working with the U.S and EU. They want to have a smaller more effective military, even with general threat of terrorism and migration in Macedonia. The NATO system is focused on military and political means. In the military sense, they are committed to settling disputes peacefully and in an effective way. If all fails they plan on using crisis management. Politically they want to promote democratic values and build trust to prevent conflicts. Overall they would like to keep international relations under control. To enter the country, it is based on having valid ​ ​ ID, although migration has become a large problem. There has also been an security issue with trust in the government. The wiretapping scandal shows the lack of mistrust that even domestic security is still being developed. The economy is informal in a sense due to events like the wiretapping. Macedonia is characterized by large and high mountain massifs giving way to extensive, flat valleys and plains (Macedonia is defending Europe from itself). This allows for easy ​ ​ entrance from various locations. Although Macedonia is located on the Northern border of Greece. The Balkans have long been the key corridor connecting Europe to the Middle East and north Africa. This exposes the Macedonian community to interethnic groups, hoping to settle in Macedonia. Native Macedonians do not take too kindly to the divergents. Migrants are given textbooks and literature that is meant to educate them on the Macedonian way, the language the culture, everything. People have began to flee to Macedonia, both now and in times past, in an effort to seek political freedom. The problem with this is that Macedonia is already at a point

Macedonia at Brussels 6 where they cannot represent themselves diplomatically, and themselves are looking for the EU for guidance and support.

Issues

Committee on Governance: Vanessa Nedd

Macedonia has a Parliamentary democracy; a political system in which the legislature (parliament) selects the government ­ a prime minister, premier, or chancellor along with the cabinet ministers ­ according to party strength as expressed in elections; by this system, the government acquires a dual responsibility: to the people as well as to the parliament. During WWII Yugoslavia was invaded by the German army in April of 1941. Bulgaria occupied almost all of Macedonia. On October 11, 1941, the Macedonians launched a war for the liberation of Macedonia from the Bulgarian occupation. By 1943, the anti­fascist sentiment lent support for the growing communist movement and soon thereafter, the Communist Party of Macedonia was established. In the same year, the first unit of the Army of Macedonia was founded. Bodies of government, such as national liberation councils, were formed over the whole territory of Macedonia. The National Liberation Army (NOV) had a meeting on August 2, 1944. Representatives from all parts of Macedonia gathered for the occasion and decided on the constitution of a modern Macedonian state as a member of the new Yugoslav federation under the name of People's Republic of Macedonia.On April 1945 the first Macedonian government was founded with Lazar Kolisevski as its first President. The Macedonians were finally free in one of the three parts of Macedonia. The Communist Party of Bulgaria, under the leadership of Georgi Dimitrov on August 9, 1946 officially recognized the Macedonian nation and the right of the Pirin part of Macedonia to be attached to the People’s Republic of Macedonia. In 1949 With the military support that came from the United States and Great Britain, the communists lost the war, and the Macedonians once again were stripped of their human rights. As federal Yugoslavia

Macedonia at Brussels 7 was disintegrating at the beginning of 1990's, on September 8, 1991 in a referendum, 95% of eligible voters approved the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Macedonia. Kiro Gligorov was elected the first president of independent Macedonia. The new constitution determined the Republic of Macedonia a sovereign, independent, civil, and democratic state, and it recognized the complete equality of the Macedonians and the ethnic minorities. One major political party is the Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity. The party has proclaimed itself as Christian democratic, but has been described as nationalist.The ​ ​ ​ ​ party has been leading a pro­European and pro­NATO policy in recent years, but it does not ​ ​ ​ ​ agree to the country's name changing. It’s support is based on ethnic Macedonians with some ​ ​ ​ ​ exceptions; it claims that "the party's goals and objectives express the tradition of the Macedonian people on whose political struggle and concepts it is based”. The other is the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia. Thee party is a social­democratic and main centre­left political ​ ​ ​ ​ party in Macedonia. It is the successor of the League of Communists of Macedonia, the ruling ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ party during the socialist period. The current party leader is Zoran Zaev.From September 1992 to ​ ​ ​ ​ 1998 and from 2002 to 2006 the SDSM was the largest party in the Macedonian parliament and the main party in the government, and has shown a moderate and reconciliatory attitude towards ethnic minorities in Macedonia. Concerning its ideology, it can be said that although the SDSM ​ ​ is a successor of a communist party and claims to be social­democratic, the influential business lobby in SDSM is moving the party in a neoliberal direction. SDSM has fewer supporters in low ​ ​ educated classes and more supporters in classes with higher education level. SDSM also has fewer supporters in the villages and rural areas, and much more supporters in the cities. Macedonia is not part of the EU but is a very likely candidate to join the EU. Since Macedonia has been a candidate for acceptance into the EU there was a wiretapping scandal which degraded their country's integrity and likeliness to be admitted.The concept of a ​ democratic deficit within the European Union is the idea that the governance of the European Union in some way lacks democratic legitimacy. The term was initially used to criticise the transfer of legislative powers from national governments to the Council of ministers of the EU. Committee on Border­cross Issues: Nina Barber

Macedonia at Brussels 8 Macedonia is a gateway of migrant travel to thousands, in which sadly due to influx has caused them to build a gate around them to control the flow of refugees from coming in. Influx of migrants have caused a fear of becoming a human warehouse and not being able to keep handle on the climate as thousands flood in. At the gates there are more and more people settling in even after setting caps of 700 admittances a day, they're getting restless and rebelling due to our resources running out and suffering days in cold weather. Macedonia has been a candidate for joining the EU for years. But Greece, its neighbor, has denied them due to our previous involvement Yugoslavia, even though we’ve tried to rename themselves ‘ The Republic of Macedonia’ Greece associates them as ‘The former Republic of Yugoslavia’. Besides the debates on accepting or denying we have supported things EU enforces. We openly accepted the Schengen Agreement along with the changes of abolishing the internal borders to allow travel without passports and creating the Schengen area. All 26 countries have been working well ever since the change, with the legal level connected and cooperating we are all able to fight crimes inside more efficiently. Complete security doesn't just focus on one external and internal there must be a balance of both and with the inside being secure. I agree that there needs to be more securitization externally. If more migrants flow in we will need more defense than a fence, tear­gas, and a few guards, there needs to be multiple barrier to stop them from getting into the country. Macedonia lacking in real external strength makes them completely vulnerable to climate change, migration, and energy and what we will need is eyes everywhere if we want to keep control over these issues. EU holds 1.67 million miles of land which includes the countries of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and United Kingdom; first starting off with 6 and increasing to 28 over the past 50 years. EU still plans to expand, with the history of accepting countries who have emerged from dictatorship EU has promoted democratic forces and economic growth. Over the years EU borders should expand to surrounding countries, due to our need for space, economic stability, and defense; eventually accepting Macedonia as a member.

Macedonia at Brussels 9 Keeping control over migrants on the border isn’t Macedonia’s only problem, there has been a growth of corruption in government with officials partaking in bribery. Bribery has entered aspects such as medical, education, travel, and legal documentation all happening so often that “6.2 per cent, and those who pay at least one bribe actually do so once every two months” (unodc.org) averaging about six bribes made in a year. There have been laws initiated to criminalize bribery as an abuse of official position, along with other anti­corruption laws that include the Law on ‘Money Laundering Prevention’ and the Law on ‘Corruption Prevention’. Each of these laws provide penalties like prison and confiscation of illegally­obtained property. Government and as well as the citizens must work together to enforce these laws to prevent corruption from getting worse. Macedonia has gone as far as to sign the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) Convention on Combating Bribery; going on to ratify the UN Convention Against Corruption in early 2007. The fight against corruption was one of the greatest priorities in 2006 of the newly elected Government of the Republic of Macedonia which summarized its position in the slogan “zero tolerance for corruption”. Committee on Economics: Whole group

Since its independence in 1991, Macedonia has made progress in liberalizing its economy and improving its business environment, but is lacking foreign investment from the balkan region. Corruption and weak rule of law remain significant problems for the economy. Some businesses complain of vague regulations and unequal enforcement of the law. The financial sector has strengthened in recent years, with the government’s role limited primarily to regulatory enforcement. The market is dominated by foreign banks, which account for over 90 per cent of total banking assets. After years of high unemployment rates, which began in the 1990s, Macedonia introduced many new laws that focus on making the market more flexible. This includes making it easier to launch a business; it now only takes two days.The individual income and corporate tax rates are a flat 10 percent. Other taxes include a value­added tax and a property transfer tax. Overall tax revenue equals 24.2 percent of total domestic income. Government spending amounts to 31.8 percent of total domestic output. The government has run a relatively small

Macedonia at Brussels 10 budget deficit. Public debt remains under 40 percent of GDP.Macedonia’s average tariff rate is 1.8 percent. The government treats foreign and domestic economic policies equally. Macedonia has grown dependent on the economic prosperity in Europe and as a result has little control over the effectiveness of their exports. Macedonia has remained a customer for exports and continues to be a faithful investor in the European market. However, there are contentions within the eurozone. A concern of the EU that will likely affect Macedonia’s economy is the fact that amongst the, already, members of the EU; there is no consensus on a currency. Also, even though eurozone participants share a common central bank, “they do not have common fiscal policy, and member states retain control over decisions about national spending and taxation” (Archick, Kristin). This is risky because of the fact that it represents a weakness to maintain budgetary discipline. Throughout Macedonia unemployment has remained high “at more than 30% since 2008”. However, Macedonia has managed to maintain macroeconomic stability, even through a global financial crisis. It has been able to do this by using a strict monetary policy. This helps to keep domestic currency opposed to the euro. Meanwhile the fiscal policy is less strict, as a result “the budget deficit was 4.2% of GDP in both 2013 and 2014, gradually falling to 3.7% in 2015. Public debt at the end of 2015 was 40.3%, which although low by regional comparison, is significant for a small economy” (Central Intelligence Agency). Thus, macedonia has actually ​ ​ been able to handle their independence. In an attempt to boost its economic growth and attract foreign investment , Macedonia has committed to a trade companies law. The purpose of the “progressive company trade law” is to diminish any hindrance to foreign investments. Even though the crisis of 2001 continues to affect the progress of Macedonia the implementation of the Framework Agreement has resulted in both political and security stability. which has allowed for refocusing government energy on domestic reforms. Hence, an increase in industrial output, fiscal consolidation, low inflation, and a decline in interest rates have projected a rise in gradual recovery of the economy (Macedonia). Committee on Security: Tamia Daniel

Macedonia located in Southeast Europe, faces security issues just like every other country. Travelers are advised to look out for delay trains entering Macedonia due to the

Macedonia at Brussels 11 migration crisis that does not occur frequently, but does happen. More frequently are acts of criminal violence. Protest in the capital, Skopje, may occur at short notice and lead to violent outbreaks. Visitors are usually not the target to these outbreaks. Terrorism is a general threat in Macedonia. Terrorism is defined as a global threat. Terrorism is a concern even to visitors because they cannot in anyway control it. There is usually no warning, and no knowing how severe the impact of the attack could be. There is a clear interest between UK connections and terrorist attacks by Iraq and Syria. These attacks can be anything from shooting, bombing, to suicide attacks and the use of chemicals. An article in BBC news, on May 11, 2015, titled Macedonia charges 30 with terrorism after Kumanovo clashes ​ explains how prosecutors charged 30 people with terrorist related offences. About eight police officers and 14 gun men were killed in the clash. They were attacking civilians and “strategic targets”. The judge accused them of jeopardizing the order and security. The requirements to enter Macedonia are pretty general. If someone has a valid British passport they do not need a visa to travel into Macedonia up to a maximum of 3 months. Deportation would occur if there is an invalid password during the duration of the stay. Deportation would also occur if there is a minor, under 18, with no letter of consent from a parent or guardian. UK emergency travel documents are also accepted of course with validity. Even with these requirements to enter into Macedonia, they do still have migration issues. Just recently in The Guardian , there was an article discussing migrants that overwhelm the security ​ ​ at the Macedonian border. Macedonia has armed forces which was established after the withdrawal of Yugoslav National Army (JNA) in March 1992. There armed forces include an army, navy, air and air defense force, and a police force (under the Ministry of Interior). Macedonia is part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). With their action plan, Macedonia made steps towards reforms and reconstructing the arm forces to a professional defense. NATO is an organization that for the past years protected values such as human rights, and democracy. The Macedonian government is very integrated into the Euro­Atlantic economy. The institutions are focused on a main foreign goal and attain it. Macedonia wants for the military to be smaller and more affordable. Although, there will be less money spent on military which is

Macedonia at Brussels 12 good for the economy, the defense system is being affected with a smaller military. With the relation to NATO, Macedonia believes that they will have a well established defense system. Macedonia is willing to work in close relations to the US government and military to help deepen its structure and forces security. In 2001, Macedonia Ministry of Defense started a process for serious military conflicts. They are responsible for the overall policies of the defense of Macedonia. In order to make sure their idea worked, they conducted a strategic defense review. They implemented a better process ARM, which is the Army of the Republic of Macedonia. This new process had a goal to structure a compromise of a Joint Operational Command (which is the land forces command and the air forces command), Logistical support command, training command, forces for Special Operations, Electronic Surveillance Centre and Air Surveillance Centre. Macedonia is working to ensure that they are able to have good military/ security with an affordable budget. The plan also cuts the amount of generals. A General National Security Strategy still has not been developed. Macedonia is developing a better security system to benefit the overall nation. They have tried to use foreign relations to increase their security. They have continued to try to work with NATO program to better define the security of Macedonia. Macedonia also is willing to work with the EU, and in part use those foreign relations for better overall security. People that visit Macedonia are usually not advised to be worried about issues that should affect them besides train delays. There is some criminal violence but there are said to be targeted subjects. Visits to Macedonia are usually safe. Terrorist attacks are commonly in relation to the interest between UK connections with Iraq and Syria. With a smaller more effective military, Macedonia is still trying to ensure better security. Committee on Migration: Nisa Holley

Macedonia’s concern with the current migration crisis is a lack of unity. How are we, the Macedonian government supposed, to foster and support refugees if we are unable to come to a consensus on terms of politics, economy as well as our place in the global community. Macedonia avoided the altercations that occurred between different ethnic communities in Yugoslavia during the early 1990s. It gained its independence in 1991 without a war.

Macedonia at Brussels 13 Meanwhile, there is a lack of political unity because of the fact that Macedonia is represented by so many different ethnicities. Macedonia stands behind Europe’s efforts to protect its country against migrants, even though Europe has been slow to act. Prior to recent years it is known to have taken a migrant six to eight months to get to the border however now a migrant can arrive in just a few short days which is a big concern for the European government.They have barricaded the border, rejecting refugees and used force when necessary. Emigration from Macedonia was prompted by political unrest under the Ottoman Empire at the turn of the 20th century and the search for wealth in the New World. After World War II, the search for employment, opposition to Yugoslav communism, and the devastating 1963 earthquake all prompted emigration. Throughout the 20th century, Macedonia saw significant emigration to the United States, Canada, Australia, and Switzerland. Populations of Macedonian origin are concentrated in Chicago in the United States; Toronto in Canada; Wollongong, Sydney, and Melbourne in Australia; and Locarno in Switzerland. Although, Macedonia has been successful in not involving itself in a war to fight for their independence from Yugoslavia, it has still been inundated with the various amount of distinguished identities hoping to find their security back in Macedonia. Macedonians have not been too accepting of emigrants, rather they have been forced to assimilate into the culture. In 1951 an agency was set in place to solely deal with the migrants fleeing to Macedonia from countries they need protection from. This agency is called The Agency for Emigrants, its responsibilities are to provide Macedonian language books, textbooks, posters, and flags to those applying for assistance. Things that are available to all Macedonian residents as well as “ethnic Macedonians” (Macedonia: At a Quiet Crossroads). Macedonia has had difficulties trying to get legal appeals and the resources required to cause an progress. Thus, we do need the European union to reform it policies regarding asylum because although we are small, we do not and we will not stand to be incompetent. For example, Macedonia took measures to implement an Aliens Act that would grant refugees with asylum however, although the law was passed we have yet to be able to get the terms enforced into our foreign policy. Macedonia only hopes to slow the number of asylum seekers to its northern border .

Macedonia at Brussels 14 Human trafficking appears to be a big obstacle to integrating immigrants into European societies. Beyond the scope of refugees seeking political freedom, people, more specifically, young girls have become victims of being transited into Macedonia and then inducted into human trafficking. Another problem is with transit migration. Migrants often enter the border of Macedonia, hoping to travel to a EU member state illegally as well. Which causes a problem not only for Macedonia but for the EU as well. The problem with Europe’s lack of policy to diminish the flood of migrants leads to an overflow of people smugglers. Macedonia stands behind Europe hoping to gain political support that will increase the level of unity amongst the population as well as ideologies which will make for a more efficient independent country. As a result, Macedonian migration policy hopes to lead ​ to an eventual broad migration policy alliance with Western Balkan and Visegrad Group countries; and be joined by Romania and Bulgaria.

Committee on Foreign Policy: Jalen Powell­Bartley

Russian Interest (Money) Macedonia gives special importance to investments from Russia. One very positive

example is the one of Russia's largest oil company ­ Lukoil. I​ n March 2015, Russian engineering ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ construction company Stroitransgaz announced plans to build a gas pipeline across Macedonia, ​ ​ ​ ​ which could eventually be used as part of a route to supply Europe with Russian gas via Turkey. ​ ​ Stroitransgaz is owned by Gennady Timchenko, an ally of President Vladimir Putin, who was ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ among the first businessmen to be placed under sanctions by the United States in the Crimea

crisis (Bauerova). ​ A spokesman for Stroitransgaz said the sanctions would not hamper the ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ project in Macedonia, which is not a member of the European Union. S​ troitransgaz said it will ​ ​ carry out its work as part of the repayment of the outstanding debt between the former Soviet ​ Union and the former Yugoslavia, of which Macedonia was a member. The project has added to ​ ​ ​ tensions between the West and Russia. F​ ollowing violent interethnic clashes in the northern ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Macedonian city of Kumanovo on the 9th of May 2015, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov ​ ​ ​ ​ accused the West of trying to incite an overthrow of the Macedonian government in order to ​ ​ undermine the project. Russian leaders, whose conflict with Ukraine has seen them tussling with eastern Europe’s largest country, are now turning their gaze to a Balkan nation with fewer

Macedonia at Brussels 15 residents than Brooklyn (Bauerova). There’s a common theme, though: gas pipelines. ​ ​ Macedonia, a statelet of 2 million people carved from the ruins of Yugoslavia, is struggling with rampant corruption and lingering ethnic tensions. Premier Nikola Gruevski’s embattled government, embroiled in a wiretapping scandal, supports plans for a Russian gas pipeline to Europe that would provide much needed revenue (Bauerova). Intervention (United States) A NATO led military intervention in Macedonia involving American and British special forces "against the NLA rebels" would be a phony operation from the outset. Amply documented, the NLA terrorists ­ who are directly linked to the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) ­ are armed and trained by Washington (Chossudovsky). So why would the US intervene under NATO auspices to fight against its own proxy army? The US is once more waging a proxy war using the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) to fight the Macedonian Armed Forces. While US KFOR troops stationed in Kosovo are not directly involved, American military personnel from Military Professional Resources, Inc (MPRI) (a mercenary outfit on contract to the Pentagon) is advising the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and its Macedonian proxy the NLA. Albanian rebel leaders paid by the United Nations (Chossudovsky). Military personnel of the "civilian" Kosovo Protection Corps (KPC) (i.e. the KLA under its UN label) have now joined the NLA. KPC Reservists have been called up and KPC Chief of Staff Gezim Ostreni ­ who was on the United Nations payroll ­ has been appointed "second in command" in the NLA.

With the Albanian parties in the coalition establishing formal ties with the rebels, the government coalition is in crisis. The entire political system is in a state of collapse. Moreover, public opinion in Macedonia now knows that both the government and the ARM are collaborating with the enemy, namely the United States. Yet in a bitter irony, the government has not opposed Washington's diktats (Chossudovsky). Skopje has been instructed by Washington not to pursue the MPRI matter. General Richard Griffiths has not been ordered to leave the country. While Washington is supporting the NLA terrorists, it has retained a firm grip on the Macedonian military high command. As the crisis unfolds, divisions with the ARM are developing. Military commanders in charge of defending Macedonian territory feel betrayed by the ARM Chief of Staff and the government (Chossudovsky).

Macedonia at Brussels 16 The activities of the IMF in Macedonia have been carefully coordinated with those of NATO and the OSCE. While money, guns and mercenaries are channeled towards the NLA rebels, the Macedonian government is in a financial straightjacket. Under the "Stability Pact", its entire budget is controlled by the IMF and the World Bank on behalf of international creditors. In other words, the imposition of severe austerity measures by the IMF prevents it from defending its territory (Chossudovsky). In turn, military expenditures are also being financed from the government's reserve fund while budgets on all civilian programs and social infrastructure including water, electricity and emergency relief to civilians affected by the terrorist assaults have been frozen. No significant influx of military aid to the ARM has been forthcoming from the European Union. Meanwhile, token US military assistance ­channeled through the MPRI­ is granted largely to convey the illusion that "America is helping" when in fact "America is at War with Macedonia"(Chossudovsky). Meanwhile, the NLA rebels have been re­equipped with brand new weapons "Made in America.” Transatlantic Relationship

As change in European security behavior interfaces with parallel change in United States security priorities and approach, the transatlantic security relationship is being reshaped. The implications of this evolution in security cooperation are profound both for the European Union as it emerges into a new and uncertain state of development and for the Atlantic relationship that has for so long coupled the world's largest economies with a shared strategic vision. The authors challenge the view that — as a security actor — the EU is limited to soft or civil forms of power that lock it into a subordinate position to the US. Attention is focused on the structural capabilities and the political will with which the EU and its member states have responded to the deep changes in Europe's security environment. This combination of institutional development and converging security priorities is producing, the authors contend, a paradigm shift in the EU that is changing the traditional transatlantic relationship. The crucial but troubled role played by the United Kingdom in that relationship is given particular attention. The research on which the article draws includes recent interviews with security officials in Western Europe and the Balkans as well as with international corporations active in the security arena. Observers say Russian propaganda, NGOs and cultural organizations have made significant inroads in the

Macedonia at Brussels 17 Balkans – in Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania. Most Balkan countries aspire to join NATO and the European Union, but Russian influence in the region is growing through Russian investments in mines, hotels, manufacturing and media.

Russia Again V. United States Interest

In a recent hit song, Russian President Vladimir Putin is asked to come to Macedonia and save the country from the EU, NATO and the United States. The song became a major hit during Macedonia’s recent parliamentary election campaign, and can be heard on local radio stations as well as social networks. Russia and the West have completely different agendas regarding the Balkans, said Janusz Bugajski at the Center for European Policy and Analysis in Washington (Coffey, Kochis). “Whereas EU and NATO leaders would like to see every country, eventually, once it qualifies, within the organizations, within the NATO and EU," he said. "Russia has the opposite objective, [it] wants to keep these countries outside of NATO, outside of EU.” Bugajski said even if Russia cannot integrate the Balkan countries into Moscow­controlled organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union, it wants to see them neutral and to prevent NATO and EU enlargement (Coffey, Kochis). Goble said Europe’s current migrant crisis is delaying integration efforts for the Balkans, adding that Europe is having so many problems of its own, it is going to be more difficult for new members to integrate. “There have been suggestions that one of the reasons the refugee flow into Europe has taken the shape it has is that Moscow has done what it could to promote that flow, precisely to weaken the EU, and therefore to be in a better position to have influence in the Balkans, and elsewhere, in eastern Europe,” he said (Coffey, Kochis). Obama’s pledge to NATO’s Eastern European allies was also aimed at Russia. He wanted to make clear to Russian President Vladimir Putin that his administration was not going to abandon Eastern Europe in the wake of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the continuing instability in Ukraine. The U.S. president also wanted to demonstrate to Russia that the ​ ​ transatlantic bonds were as strong as ever. In fact, those bonds have rarely been so weak. Europe, for the most part, is rudderless, while the Obama administration is hobbled by a public tired of ​ ​ war and sees no reason why it should become embroiled in Ukraine’s crisis. (Spy scandal hampers US relations).

Macedonia at Brussels 18 Yet European leaders can ill afford to allow the transatlantic relationship to weaken even further. Because of their unwillingness to take defense and security seriously, Europeans remain almost completely dependent on the United States to provide them with its security umbrella. And despite the Ukraine crisis and the modernization of Russia’s armed forces, most Western European governments will not increase their defense spending. Somehow, they assume that Washington will always provide the cover (Coffey, Kochis) . Perhaps it was Obama’s mistake to offer $1 billion to Poland and other countries in the region without insisting that America’s European allies match that sum or at least contribute to it.

Committee on Identity and Integration: Aaija Hall

The second world war mainly served as an opportunity for Macedonia to achieved our independence. Though Macedonia achieve a portion of independence we were not yet recognized as a full sovereign state until September 8th 1991(Kim, Julie) . After receiving independence, the republic of Macedonia elected the first president of the independent Macedonia and established a new constitution that would fortify our new democratic system. The Macedonian government stipulates the basic principles of democracy in order to guarantee democratic civil liberties(Kim, Julie). Even after being recognised as its own independent state by the European community, The Republic of Macedonia still continues to be denied admittance into the European Union. Independence not only did not solve the external issues Macedonia is facing, but it also created new internal problems for the young state to deal with(Kim, Julie). Macedonia is mostly comprised of a vast mixture of cultural ethnicities and nationalities, however the largest ethnic groups remain with the Macedonians, Albanians, and Turks. Even though Macedonia is far too familiar with cultural oppression, the state continues to experience problems with identity and the power struggle amoungst different ethnic groups such as the albanians and the macedonians(Panovski, Naum). Other ethnic groups were represented by political interest groups in parliament, but civic turmoil occurred nevertheless. The Macedonian constitution has been amended many times, due to the uncompromising nature of macedonian political leaders. Macedonian politics is driven by nationalist interest rather than civic interests(Panovski, Naum) . In the Macedonian state this ​ ​

Macedonia at Brussels 19 resulted in major consequences since there is not a singular nationality but rather various ethnic groups and cultures.Albanians in Macedonia as a whole have demanded greater cultural and educational rights, such as recognizing Albanian as an official language(Panovski, Naum). Albanians have sought greater representation in the government, armed forces and police. They have objected to the preamble of the constitution which refers to the Macedonian nation, which they contend relegates Albanians to the status of second­class citizens. For years after independence Macedonia had avoided the turbulence that existed in neighboring states but tensions soon began to rise between macedonians and albanians over power struggle(The Ohrid ​ ​ Peace Agreement, How Is It Working Ten Years Later?).. Macedonia experienced civil war between the macedonians and the albanians in 2001. During the civil conflict, ethnic Albanian rebels calling themselves the National Liberation Army (NLA) stepped up attacks on Macedonian security forces first in several villages near the city of Tetovo, and later near the capital, Skopje(The Ohrid Peace Agreement, How Is It Working Ten Years Later?).. The ​ ​ Macedonian government later began a counter­insurgency campaign where it opened talks on political reforms with elected ethnic Albanian representatives, but refused to negotiate with the rebels themselves. Clashes between the rebels and government forces continued, in spite of cease­fire agreements and ongoing political talks. With the help of U.S. and European intervention, the parties eventually signed a framework agreement(The Ohrid Peace Agreement, ​ ​ How Is It Working Ten Years Later?). The Ohrid Framework Agreement rejects the use of violence for political aims and preserves Macedonia's unity by denying a possible ethnic division of the country. In addition, it reaffirms a multi­ethnic Macedonian, while seeking to better reflect this characteristic in the country's public life by encouraging the development of local government to promote respect for the identity of ethnic communities(Reka, Blerim). Ultimately, the peace framed new provisions ​ ​ to secure more rights for the albanian minority in Macedonia. The agreement to and the implementation of these and other measures increased a sense of fairness in terms of interethnic Macedonian and Albanian relations in the society that has helped keep the peace for over ten years (The Ohrid Peace Agreement, How Is It Working Ten Years Later?). However, lack of ​ ​ follow up, particularly in terms of measures to foster reconciliation between the two major ethnic

Macedonia at Brussels 20 communities and denial of the truth of what actually occurred in 2001, has led to a number of troubling, unintended consequences. Since the Ohrid Agreement there has been an increase in crime, ethnic politics, and social intolerance(The Ohrid Peace Agreement, How Is It Working ​ Ten Years Later?).

Main Key Points

● Remaining independent and keeping its name­ There has constantly been a shift in the ​ control of macedonia until 1991 when it declared independent; Macedonia would like to remain independent. Also Greece struggles with accepting the name of our country's name and we do not want to change our name to satisfy their needs. ● Unity between ethnic groups ­ Macedonia has been experiencing tension among the ​ different ethnic groups for competing power and rights. Our country’s goal is to establish a more united Macedonia that is not driven by political / ethnic divide but by common nationalist views. ● Macedonia alliance with russia­ Macedonia is working with Russia on an energy ​ pipeline that would provide revenue to to both nations. The United States doesn’t like the relationship between the two as the United States tries to keep its power and states that the transatlantic relations are still strong. But current intervention would suggest the United States government is trying to overthrow the current government in Macedonia. ● Keeping the Border closed: Macedonia is only 9,928 miles a small country who is ​ incapable of handling and adjusting to the amount of immigrants coming in to seek aid. Macedonia doesn’t have enough defense or security to secure its borders, which is why they use the help of Greece.

Macedonia at Brussels 21 ● Preventing unwanted migration­ Macedonia is accessible from several angles which ​ makes it hard for Macedonia to control who can enter. There is already an opposition to interethnic communities.

Macedonia at Brussels 22 Work Cited Archick, Kristin. "The European Union: Questions and Answers." N.p., 19 Jan. 2016. Web. "Can Obama Rescue the Transatlantic Relationship?" Carnegie Europe. Web. 07 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ "Experts: Russia Aims to Curb NATO, EU Aspirations in Balkans." VOA. Web. 07 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ "Intervention in Macedonia." : Washington's Military­Intelligence Ploy. Web. 07 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ Kim, Julie. Macedonia Country Background and Recent Conflict. Washington, D.C.: ​ ​ Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress, 2001. 7 Nov. 2001. Web. 6 Mar. 2016.

Kirk, Ashley. "Mapped: The Journey That Refugees Are Taking to Get into Europe." The ​ Telegraph. Telegraph Media Group, n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2016. ​

"Macedonia Charges 30 with Terrorism after Kumanovo Clashes ­ BBC News." BBC News. ​ ​ N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2016. "Macedonia." Heritage.org. The Heritage Foundation, n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ "Macedonia." Travel Advice. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ ​ "Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of." / Economic Studies. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. ​ ​ 2016. "Macedonia." Unrv.com. Province of the Roman Empire. . Web. 09 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ "Migrants Overwhelm Security Forces at Macedonia Border." The Guardian. Guardian News ​ ​ and Media, 23 Aug. 2015. Web. 09 Mar. 2016. Panovski, Naum. "344. Macedonia and Its Hurdles on the Road to the European Union." Wilson Center. N.p., 07 July 2011. Web. 06 Mar. 2016. ​

"Short History of Macedonia." Historyofmacedonia.org. Short History of Macedonia. Web. 09 ​ ​ ​ ​ Mar. 2016. Reka, Blerim. Ten Years from the Ohrid Framework Agreement: Is Macedonia Functioning ​ as a Multi­ethnic State? Tetovo: South East European U, 2011. Web. 6 Mar. 2016. ​

"The Baltic States: The United States Must Be Prepared to Fulfill Its NATO Treaty Obligations." The Heritage Foundation. Web. 07 Mar. 2016. ​ ​

Macedonia at Brussels 23 The Ohrid Peace Agreement, How Is It Working Ten Years Later? (n.d.): n. pag. Web. 6 Mar. ​ 2016.

"The World Factbook." Central Intelligence Agency. Central Intelligence Agency, n.d. Web. 10 ​ ​ Mar. 2016. "What Is NATO?" What Is NATO? N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2016. ​ ​ "Why Does Putin Care Who Runs a Tiny Balkan Nation? Gas Pipelines." Bloomberg.com. ​ ​ Bloomberg. Web. 07 Mar. 2016.

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