North Macedonia health ministry faces rapid turnover of ministers

Since 1991 North Macedonia has had 20 different health ministers, with ten changes between 2006 and 2025, reflecting frequent political reshuffling. The most recent minister, Azir Aliu, appointed on 9 June 2025, left office after barely a year, prompting criticism that ministerial changes are driven by party politics rather than health‑system reform.

Officials and former ministers warn that constant turnover undermines the delivery of medical services, prolongs waiting lists, and hampers long‑term planning. Former health minister Dr. Dragan Danilovski has called for a ten‑year health‑policy framework that would bind future governments to consistent priorities, arguing that health security is a core element of national safety.