The role of stereotypes in creating social distance and social inclusion in Republic of Macedonia

This paper is based on empirical research conducted in 2015 in Faculties of Law in Universities Goce Delchev in Shtip, Cirilus and Methodius in Skopje and University in Tetovo. Also there is comparative research with similar surveys conducted in Republic of Macedonia in years 1995 and 2003. The role of stereotypes in generating precondition for interethnic relations is one of basic factors in building permanent peace and coexistence in multiethnic societies. The tendency of decreeing of social distance between ethnic groups in Republic of Macedonia can help in furthers social development and cooperation between communities. Also we are analyzing other different factors of influence in interethnic relations as, social environment, education, professional affiliations, and family etc. Keywords: interethnic coexistence, Macedonians, Albanians, social distance, stereotypes.