CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND THE PRESERVATION OF THE CULTURE OF ORIGIN NORTH MACEDONIA – A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Sociological studies often emphasize the belief that human relations are first cultural relations, and that culture and cultural identity play an especially significant role in other human relationships, such as: economic, social and political relations in society. Cultural relations matter not only in the size of relations between individuals or subgroups of different cultural affiliations, but also in the extent of the broader relations between different states and civilizations, and even in shaping philosophy and worldwide politics, playing a very important role during cohesion and conflict in modern and postmodern society. This idea is reinforced by sociologist Samuel Huntington, who in the book Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of world order states that: "culture and cultural identities, which, at the broadest level are civilizational identities, are what shape patterns of cohesion, dissolution and conflict in the world" (Huntington, 2009, p. 16). Cultural diversity is the diversity of cultures, values, identities, and practices in each society. This includes changes in languages, beliefs, customs, traditions, and artistic expression. Cultural diversity is an aspect of the richness of societies, bringing change, innovation, and preparation to understand and evaluate different perspectives. Respecting and promoting cultural diversity, today in the world of cultural diversity, is essential to create an open, just, and free cultural environment. It is precisely the multicultural policies used to encourage respect and support for cultural diversity in institutions, education, and society at large. This is the aim of creating an environment where individuals of diverse cultural groups can coexist and contribute positively to society. Cultural diversity in North Macedonia is one of the main characteristics that constitutes the identity of this country. North Macedonia is home to a wide range of ethnic and cultural communities, including Macedonians, Albanians, Turks, Roma, Serbs, Bosniaks, etc. This diversity is evident in languages, culture, music, religious practices, etc. Efforts to preserve and promote cultural diversity in M.V. are essential to fostering cohesion and social understanding. The coexisting of diverse cultures contributes to the country's unique identity and heritage. It is important to recognize and respect the special contributions of each community by creating a more inclusive and harmonious society. This paper focuses on cultural diversity in M.V., preservation of culture of origin and the impact of diversity on cultural identity among The Albanians of North Macedonia.