The geopolitical importance and repopulation of evacuated Turkish villages in North Macedonia

The Republic of North Macedonia has taken significant steps towards European Union integration, officially establishing its name as "North Macedonia." The impact of the European Union's democratization efforts highlights the potential for transforming social and political dynamics within the country. In this context, North Macedonia aims to address historical issues by improving the socio-economic conditions of the Turkish community through constitutional reforms and infrastructure investments, while also promoting a return to rural areas. The central hypothesis of this research asserts that the constitutional reforms, infrastructure developments, and economic incentives implemented during North Macedonia's EU integration process will enhance the socio-economic circumstances of the Turkish community, encourage repopulation of rural areas, and preserve cultural identity, thereby increasing social welfare. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data collected through in-depth interviews and field observations to examine the experiences of the Turkish community, the status of abandoned villages, and relevant social dynamics. Research findings reveal that constitutional reforms have a broad impact on the Turkish community in North Macedonia, particularly highlighting the critical role of the recovery and strengthening of constitutional rights in preserving cultural identity. Additionally, infrastructure investments and economic incentives contribute to the revitalization of abandoned villages and promote population growth in rural areas. Therefore, enhancing the socio-economic welfare of the Turkish community in North Macedonia supports the conclusion that constitutional and economic reforms positively influence social dynamics.