North Macedonia national commemorative observances

North Macedonia has held several national commemorations honoring historical struggles for independence and freedom.

On October 11, the country marked the 85th anniversary of the October 11 National Uprising, which began the anti-fascist struggle in 1941. State officials, including President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, issued messages regarding the responsibility to build a democratic European state. Ceremonies included flower-laying at monuments in Kumanovo and Prilep, and the presentation of ‘October 11’ awards for lifetime achievement in culture, science, and education.

On October 23, the nation observed the Day of Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle, commemorating the 1893 founding of the Macedonian Revolutionary Organization in Thessaloniki. The holiday honors the movement for self-determination and figures such as Dr. Hristo Tatarchev, reflecting on the legacy of the Ilinden Uprising of 1903.

Official commemorations for this day included a solemn academy titled ‘Svoi na svoeto!’ at the Macedonian National Theatre, featuring an address by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski. A parliamentary delegation led by Vice President Antonijo Milososki laid wreaths at the Monument to the IMRO Founders in Skopje. Additionally, the state ‘October 23’ awards were presented at the Assembly to recipients including historian Prof. Dr. Stojko Stojkov and archaeologist Prof. Dr. Viktor Lilčič Adams. President Gordana Siljanovska-Devska issued a congratulatory message, stating that honoring the revolutionary tradition requires building a just and prosperous state that upholds the ideals of those who fought for national self-determination. Political leaders, including former President Gjorge Ivanov, also issued messages emphasizing national unity.