North Macedonia faces EU accession hurdles over Bulgaria protocol

Debate is intensifying regarding North Macedonia's path toward European Union membership, specifically concerning the influence of Bulgaria on the negotiation process. Critics argue that the current negotiating framework, which incorporates historical and identity-related disputes, serves as an insurmountable obstacle to accession.

There is significant disagreement over whether the primary obstacle lies in Brussels or Sofia. While Deputy Foreign Minister Zoran Dimitrovski has suggested that the issue is not with the EU itself, critics contend that the framework established in Brussels effectively allows Bulgaria to maintain a decisive role in North Macedonia's integration process. Some observers argue that the only viable solution is the annulment of the second protocol with Bulgaria to clear the path for EU membership.