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EU Eyes North Macedonia Amidst Foreign Influence Concerns

European Parliament report highlights constitutional changes and democratic standards.

A European Parliament report is raising concerns about foreign influence in North Macedonia and pressing for constitutional reforms. The report, slated for a vote on July 9th, also addresses media freedom and the rule of law.

Weitz: Skopje Faces External Pressures

Thomas Weitz, the European Parliament’s rapporteur for Northern Macedonia, stated in Strasbourg that “In Northern Macedonia, we see a lot of foreign influence. We have to fight it, whether it is Serbian, Chinese or Russian.”

Weitz emphasized that the upcoming report stresses the need to amend the constitution, specifically to include Bulgarians.

Constitutional Amendment Imperative for Progress

Echoing this sentiment, EU Commissioner Martha Kos stressed that for Northern Macedonia, “the only time ahead – first and foremost – is the change of the Constitution.” She urged authorities in Skopje to uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and media independence.

Bulgarian MEPs Voice Concerns

Ivaylo Valchev, a Bulgarian MEP, questioned the state of rights in North Macedonia, asking, “In which country can one be convicted of citing historical figures? In which country are people attacked for their origin? And which country allows himself to trample international treaties?”

Valchev highlighted the case of Lupcho Georgievski, who he described as “a worthy Bulgarian who is threatened with a sentence only because he has the courage to be called a Bulgarian from Macedonia.”

Adding to the discussion, Andrey Kovachev (GERB/EPP) accused authorities in Skopje of undermining European integration through populism, nationalist rhetoric and convenient presentation of Bulgaria as an enemy.”

According to a recent report by the Council of Europe, concerns remain regarding the implementation of judgments by the European Court of Human Rights in North Macedonia, particularly regarding freedom of association and expression (Council of Europe 2024).

Call for Reforms

Kovachev urged politicians in North Macedonia to prioritize reforms and progress, addressing them directly with the message: “Do not waste your own citizens’ time.” These statements underscore the ongoing scrutiny and pressure on North Macedonia to align with European standards.