North Macedonia proposes new mining laws to balance investment and environment

North Macedonia’s Minister of Energy, Sanja Božinovska, has presented the results of an independent expert review regarding proposed new laws for geology and mining. The objective of the legislative changes is to create a functional, modern, and applicable legal framework that aligns with European standards and international best practices.

Božinovska emphasized that while the new laws aim to foster economic development and attract responsible investment in the mining sector, they will not compromise environmental protection or the interests of local communities. She stated that the mining sector should serve as an economic driver where benefits are distributed among the state, the economy, local governments, and citizens.

The expert review was conducted by Professor Dr. VječeSlav Bohanek and Kristi Disney Bruckner, in collaboration with the civil organization ‘Nov tret pat’. The process also involved representatives from the Ministry, the Geological Institute, and the State Inspectorate for Energy and Mineral Resources.