The Border Dispute Between Greece and North Macedonia
The political and geographic relationship between Greece and what is now known as North Macedonia has been a subject of ongoing debate and discussion. This article explores the historical context, current status, and implications of the border dispute, particularly focusing on the Prespes Agreement and the status of Pelagonia.
Historical Context and Geographical Boundaries
The ancient region of Macedonia has spanned across various territories over the centuries. Pelagonia, an area originally belonging to the Dorian Macedonians, played a significant historical role. However, by the 19th century, the region had been lost to the Serbs, who reached it sooner than the Greek Macedonian forces. Today, Pelagonia forms a small strip of land situated on the borders of North Macedonia, home to a mix of Slavic Macedonians and Albanians as Macedonian citizens.
During the Second Balkan War, Greece expanded its territory into what is now known as Aegean Macedonia. This expansion, encapsulated in the Treaty of Bucharest in 1913, saw significant population exchanges, with more than 1.25 million "Greeks" settling in the region. Thus, the modern Greek state has held a significant portion of what was once considered historical Macedonia since.
Border Between a EU and a Third Country
The northern border of Greece shares a direct boundary with North Macedonia, a country that has had to deal with the challenge of reconciling its historical identity with the prerequisites for European Union membership. The border between these two nations is relatively modest in its control, facilitating the movement of citizens from both countries.
The border negotiations are further complicated by the Prespes Agreement (formally known as the Prespa Agreement), signed in 2018 between Greece and North Macedonia. This agreement recognized North Macedonia's right to use the term "Macedonia" in its official name to avoid conflicts with Greece over historical claims, and it acknowledged that ancient Macedonian history belongs to Greece. This resolution was crucial for North Macedonia's bid to join the EU and NATO.
Modern Geopolitical Interpretations
Some argue that there is no clear line to distinguish Greece and the historical territory of Macedonia, as the borders defined today largely align with the region that was liberated from Ottoman rule during the Balkan wars. However, for practical and political purposes, the term "Macedonia" as used by North Macedonia is often seen as belonging historically to Greece, primarily due to its continued use of the name and its emphasis on ancient Macedonian heritage.
Conclusion
The border between Greece and North Macedonia is a complex issue that involves historical, political, and cultural elements. The Prespes Agreement offers a significant step towards peaceful coexistence and the resolution of long-standing disputes, particularly in recognizing North Macedonia's right to use its name and addressing historical claims. However, debates continue regarding the boundaries and the use of the term "Macedonia," reflecting the continued importance of this region in both national and international contexts.
The situation remains a matter of ongoing discussion, influenced by historical events, territorial claims, and the broader geopolitical landscape of the Balkans and the European Union.