North Macedonia reforms must serve citizens, not just EU, says rapporteur

European Parliament rapporteur Thomas Weizsäcker has emphasized that reforms in North Macedonia must be conducted for the benefit of its citizens rather than solely to meet European Union requirements. Speaking at the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee, Weizsäcker stressed that institutional changes should aim to restore public trust and improve daily life.

He warned that a lack of trust in the judiciary and institutions is a primary driver for the emigration of young people. Weizsäcker noted that while European nations require skilled labor, the departure of North Macedonia's youth represents a significant loss for the country's future. He argued that anti-corruption efforts and judicial independence are not just bureaucratic mandates from Brussels, but essential needs for a functioning society to prevent corruption from eroding the system and undermining economic stability.