President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova received a group of Harvard University alumni who are visiting the country as part of a study trip across the Balkans.
During the conversation, the guests briefed the President on their visits to the region thus far and their stay in the country, during which they explored cultural and historical landmarks and gained insight into contemporary social developments.
The President welcomed and expressed her gratitude for their interest in our past and present, as well as for their interest in her perspectives, both as a professor and as a politician, on pressing issues, emphasizing that such visits serve as a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences, re-examine one’s own views and learn from one another.
She presented her views on the global security, economic and energy crises, as well as the ethical and moral crisis, with a particular focus on the situation in Europe. She pointed to the real danger of deepening internal divisions along various lines, as well as the risk of regional and international conflicts driven by growing multipolarity. Furthermore, she highlighted intensifying authoritarian and oligarchic tendencies, even in nations with centuries-old democratic traditions, alongside accelerated militarization and the marginalization of international organizations like the UN, which were founded in the spirit of multilateralism.
Responding to questions from guests regarding the causes of violent protests in many countries, she highlighted how the social character of many states is under threat amidst the deepening crisis. She noted the widening gap between the rich and the poor, as well as a palpable rise in apathy, hopelessness and violence, particularly among the youth.
Emphasizing the importance of international contacts and cooperation, the President pointed to the educational, scientific and professional capacity of the Macedonian diaspora as a development potential that remains underutilized.
As a university professor, she highlighted the value of academic dialogue in expanding and testing knowledge, identifying and diagnosing situations, as well as in overcoming problems.
