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DRAFT REPORT (2025/2021(INI))

On the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on North Macedonia

AFET-PR-769915

Committee on Foreign Affairs · Rapporteur: Thomas Waitz

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This draft report responds to the Commission's 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia, supporting its EU accession and urging reforms in rule of law, media, and other areas. It calls for swift advancement of accession negotiations, adoption of constitutional amendments, and implementation of reforms in various sectors.

Committee position. The rapporteur supports North Macedonia's EU accession and calls for swift advancement of negotiations, urging reforms and implementation of agreements.

Key points

  1. Reiterates full support for North Macedonia's EU membership and calls for swift advancement of accession negotiations, noting the need for constitutional amendments.
  2. Welcomes the Reform and Growth Facility providing EUR 750 million in grants and loans to North Macedonia.
  3. Urges intensified efforts to strengthen rule of law, judicial independence, counter corruption, reform public administration, and improve media ownership transparency.
  4. Calls for comprehensive electoral reform and implementation of ODIHR and Venice Commission recommendations.
  5. Calls for improved regulation of political party financing, merit-based public administration, and accountability of public institutions.
  6. Urges authorities to refrain from opaque dismissals and appointments in independent bodies and ensure adequate funding.
  7. Calls for media law reform aligned with the European Media Freedom Act, and measures to support investigative journalism and media literacy.
  8. Expresses concern about gender equality, hate speech, and migration management; calls for stronger measures.
  9. Notes serious concern about worsening corruption and low trust in judiciary; calls for strengthening judicial independence and anti-corruption efforts.
  10. Recommends socio-economic reforms, digital transformation, and addressing brain drain.
  11. Urges efforts on energy efficiency, air quality, and infrastructure, and alignment with EU environment legislation.
  12. Welcomes regional cooperation and alignment with EU foreign policy, including compliance with Russia-related restrictive measures.

Who is affected

  • North Macedonia's authorities and political parties, who are urged to adopt constitutional amendments and implement reforms.
  • Journalists and media in North Macedonia, who face threats and need better protection and independence.
  • Victims of gender-based violence and LGBTIQ community, who need improved services and prosecution of hate crimes.
  • Persons with disabilities, who face barriers due to legislation not aligned with the UN Convention.
  • Neighbouring countries, including Greece and Bulgaria, with which North Macedonia must implement bilateral agreements.

Figures and deadlines

  • EUR 750 million in grants and loans to North Macedonia under the Reform and Growth Facility.