Building a Culture of Peace in North Macedonia Through HWPL Peace Education

Republic of North Macedonia

Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe, the Republic of North Macedonia is a small country with a population of around two million. Having gained independence in August 1991 from the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, the region has navigated through complex international relations, particularly with Greece, due to disputes over the use of the name "Macedonia." With a diverse population, including 64% Orthodox Christians and 33% Muslims, North Macedonia has been actively engaged in promoting multi-ethnic education and nurturing future citizens through various educational initiatives.

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The Beginning of HWPL’s Peace Education in North Macedonia

The journey of peace education in North Macedonia took its first steps in April 2021 at the Parteniya Zografski Elementary School, located in the capital city, Skopje. Recognizing the importance of peace, Lidija Ristovska Atanasova, an English teacher at the school, was inspired by the HWPL Peace Education curriculum and wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to introduce peace education to her students. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HWPL, the school adopted the curriculum to instill the values of peace and global citizenship among its students.

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HWPL’s Peace Education Changing Macedonian Students’ Heart and Mind

The impact of the peace education program on students was profound. According to Ristovska who participate in the program, students gained an understanding that all individuals are equal and possess their own purpose in the world. They learned that each of them could play a significant role in promoting peace globally. Expressing their thoughts, students emphasized the need for appropriate education on peace, believing that it helps them grow into strong individuals actively contributing to peaceful communities. Other students agreed that this peace education help them to feel the need to be kind and considerate to others. Understanding how important it is to end war, some students shared their realization that the path to peace is challenging but when it is achieved, it can bring the feeling of tremendous fulfillment.   

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Peace Programs beyond the classroom in North Macedonia – Peace Walk and Peace Education Workshop

Beyond the classroom, North Macedonia has embraced additional initiatives to foster a culture of peace. One notable event is the Peace Walk, organized by Tetovo University in May 2019. This event, attended by students and community members, aimed to spread the message of peace and non-violence. Participants, carrying placards expressing their aspirations for peace, walked through the campus, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in peace activities. Furthermore, in August 2021, North Macedonia hosted the HWPL Balkan Regional Peace Education Workshop, bringing together 40 representatives from North Macedonia and two other countries. This workshop served as a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences, highlighting the commitment of North Macedonian officials to peace education.

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In conclusion, North Macedonia is taking significant strides toward building a culture of peace through initiatives like HWPL Peace Education. The experiences shared by students and the active participation in events like the Peace Walk demonstrate the nation's dedication to creating a harmonious and inclusive society for its citizens. Through education and collaborative efforts, North Macedonia is contributing to the global pursuit of lasting peace.