The Greek-Macedonian Conflict and Its Impact on the European Integration Process in the Balkans

In: Visnyk of the Lviv University. Series International Relations, Heft 48

Abstract

The Greek-Macedonian dispute over the name of the Macedonian country had a negative impact on the stabilization in the southern Balkan region. Its duration caused a delay in talks on the accession of the state to the Union, which have not been taken up until now. Greece's behavior is difficult to describe in other words than destructive and devoid of deeper logic. The authorities in Athens denied the use of the term «Macedonia» by their northern neighbour, and then agreed to the name 'Northern Macedonia' at the turn of 2018 and 2019. Having made this change and signing the agreement with Greece, the authorities in Skopje probably hoped to open talks on the membership in the organization in 2019. However, this has not happened yet. Key words: North Macedonia; Greece; Greek-Macedonian conflict; European integration; Balkans; European Union.