Scoring political points through categorical opposition to the opening of mines could jeopardize the country’s development opportunities and the economic prospects of its citizens. Decisions regarding mining should be based on science, expert analysis, and the public interest.
Harnessing Macedonia’s mineral potential must not be a matter of short-term political maneuvering; instead, it should be addressed based on scientific research, expert analysis, and an objective assessment of benefits and risks. When the debate on mining is reduced to political slogans and the categorical rejection of new investments, without serious consideration of the facts, the state risks forfeiting development opportunities, and citizens risk losing potential jobs and economic prospects, the “Health and Jobs” initiative said in a press release Sunday.
“Natural resources must not be held hostage by political interests. Decisions regarding their utilization should be driven by facts, science, and expertise, rather than political messaging aimed at scoring short-term political points. Categorical opposition to mining, absent an objective analysis of specific projects, could harm citizens and the country’s long-term economic interests,” the initiative said.