Prime Minister Christian Micic charts reforms, demographic plan and EU push in North Macedonia

Prime Minister Christian Micic presented his vision of transforming North Macedonia into a “state of opportunities”, urging faster progress and long‑term planning beyond short‑term political cycles. He warned of a severe demographic decline that could create a gap of 150,000‑250,000 people over the next two to three decades, calling for policies that raise wages, improve housing, education and health, and attract or retain young families.

Micic’s government is now discussing a cabinet reconstruction with coalition partners VLEN and ZNAM. Meetings aim to clarify whether changes will affect only ministerial posts or extend to the second and third tiers of public administration. The coalition stresses that any reshuffle should focus on “substance, not scope”.

Public sentiment toward EU accession remains strong, with recent surveys showing over 60 % support in North Macedonia and growing optimism among younger voters that membership could be achieved within five years. Micic linked the reform agenda to the EU path, emphasizing the need for efficient institutions, investment, innovation and digital transformation to boost the country’s competitiveness.