It is essential that all political stakeholders in North Macedonia, notably the Government and Members of Parliament of the ruling majority, recognize the renewed sense of urgency and start delivering tangible, convincing, and genuine results in core areas without any further delay. At the same time, the EU and its Member States must also deliver, including through active diplomatic engagement to help North Macedonia make progress on its own commitments, the European Parliament’s rapporteur on North Macedonia, MEP Thomas Waitz, highlights in the annual draft report on the country’s progress, which is set to be presented in the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) on February 26.
“North Macedonia is currently in a difficult position, as the accession process has stalled. Despite some positive reforms, progress on the EU Reform Agenda – especially in key areas such as the rule of law, judicial reform and the fight against corruption – has been insufficient. This is due to the election campaign, limited capacities in the public administration and the lack of long-term political commitment,” says Waitz.
The MEP points out that no progress has been made on constitutional amendments, due to concerns about potential additional bilateral blockades or demands from Bulgaria. He believes that an urgent increase in political will is needed on both sides to overcome this impasse.
“In this geopolitical context, opportunities may arise to revive and accelerate the accession process. However, that process will remain merit-based and firmly linked to progress in fundamental areas, especially the rule of law. It is therefore essential that all political actors in North Macedonia, especially the Government and the MPs from the ruling majority, recognize this new urgency and start delivering tangible, convincing and honest results in these key areas without further delay,” Waitzpoints out.
