North Macedonia Justice Minister Shasivari seeks US support and raises judges' pay

Justice Minister Jeton Shasivari met with the president of the Basic Criminal Court in Skopje to discuss the shortage of lay judges and low compensation. He noted that the Judicial Council has submitted a proposal to amend the 2018 remuneration regulation, aiming to increase lay‑judge fees in June 2026.

Later, Shasivari held talks with Nikol Varns, head of the U.S. Embassy mission, reaffirming the strategic partnership between North Macedonia and the United States. The discussion covered ongoing justice reforms, digitalisation of courts, anti‑corruption efforts, and a request for U.S. expertise and experience in criminal legislation. The meeting also highlighted a U.S.–funded project supporting the national drug strategy, financed by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

The minister said the Ministry of Justice will consider the proposals and continue seeking sustainable solutions to improve the efficiency and credibility of the judicial system.