Since independence in 1991, the country has made significant steps towards defining national policies that recognise the country’s cultural, ethnic and religious diversity. The Ohrid Framework Agreement, which brought an end to the inter-ethnic conflict of 2001, laid the foundations for peace and stability and for the country’s present two-tier self-government system. The continued observance and implementation of the Agreement, together with meaningful inter-ethnic dialogue and collaboration across all social strata, remains essential for the development of the country as a productive and vibrant society and future European Union member state.