North Macedonia judges warn of judicial system crisis

The Association of Judges 360 Degrees has issued a warning regarding the critical state of the judiciary in North Macedonia. Citing the Judicial Council's 2025 annual report, the association stated that the judicial branch is operating at the limits of its functional survival.

Key issues identified include a significant shortage of judges and judicial administrative staff, alongside insufficient financial and material resources. The association noted that despite various announced reforms and legislative changes, actual working conditions in the courts continue to deteriorate.

To prevent further systemic weakening, the association is calling for urgent measures, including the reassessment of the judicial network, increased digitalization and the implementation of artificial intelligence, professionalization of court administration, and the provision of predictable and adequate funding.