North Macedonia
Albania and Montenegro could conclude EU accession talks by 2026-27, enlargement commissioner says
But Marta Kos warns "external forces" actively seeking to block certain countries from EU accession.
Ukraine and Balkans ravaged by wildfires in 2024
Wildfires ravaged large swathes of land across Ukraine and the Balkans, with Ukraine suffering the highest recorded damage of any country in the region, said the EU's European Forest Fire Information System.
Peaceful protests held in Skopje over Kocani nightclub fire
Thousands of people gathered to protest over the fire in Kocani that claimed the lives of 59 young people and injured almost 200.
North Macedonia mourns as 59 victims of Kocani nightclub fire laid to rest
Investigations have revealed the Pulse nightclub lacked basic safety measures and a valid operating permit, sparking outrage in North Macedonia.
North Macedonia to close over 80% of nightclubs after fatal fire
Inspections of nightclubs and discotheques launched after a deadly fire at the Pulse club in Kocani revealed serious regulatory violations.
Several EU countries back push to fund Prague-based RFE/RL in response to Trump axeing it
Member states want EU to fund Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty after US President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at dismantling the Agency for Global Media.
Serbian president sparks outrage with visit to Kocani fire victims
The president's ill-advised publicity stunt backfired spectacularly, with many accusing him of exploiting the tragedy for political gain.
Nightclub fire sparks violent protests in North Macedonia
Fury over systemic corruption as nightclub where 59 died in fire revealed to be operating without even minimal safety standards.
Death toll from North Macedonia nightclub fire reaches 59
As investigations continue, the nation mourns one of its deadliest tragedies in recent history.
Nightclub fire kills over 50 in North Macedonia
A fire at a packed nightclub in the town of Kocani has killed at least 51 people and left more than 100 injured.
North Macedonia’s central bank maintains key interest rate at 5.35%
Central bank says global geopolitical uncertainties and rising protectionist policies have reinforced the need for prudence.
North Macedonia’s FX reserves up 11.8% y/y at end-February
North Macedonia’s gross international reserves reach €4.861bn at end-February.
EBRD lowers 2025 forecasts citing subdued global growth and trade fragmentation
Weaker external demand and potential impact of Trump tariffs weigh on Emerging Europe, Central Asia and Semed regions, with growth now projected at 3.2%.
Turkey’s Kazancı plans to invest €1bn in North Macedonia's energy sector
North Macedonia's Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski says Kazancı's investment will strengthen energy independence and tackle air pollution.
North Macedonia surpasses €1bn in FDI for the first time
Increase reflects North Macedonia’s growing appeal as a destination for high-tech manufacturing and sustainable energy solutions.
BALKAN BLOG: Upended world order enables Russia’s return to Southeast Europe
The US’s distancing from its traditional democratic allies and embrace of the far right paves the way for the return of Russian influence to a region from which it has long been in retreat.
North Macedonia’s PM slams EU ‘double standards’ on human rights and identity
Hristijan Mickoski tells Munich Security Conference the EU's widely touted merit-based system for accession negotiations has not been applied fairly to his country
Every third citizen in North Macedonia considering emigration
Survey by Skopje-based Institute for Political Research finds low salaries are the primary motivating force for emigration.
London to name Karen Pierce special envoy to the Western Balkans
Former British ambassador in Washington appointed as UK seeks to deepen its engagement with the Western Balkans, a region of growing geopolitical interest.
North Macedonia faces economic strain as European carmakers restructure
The European automotive sector has been grappling with declining sales and growing competition from China, leading to significant restructuring efforts.