North Macedonia judiciary under political pressure, EU Commission report says

The European Commission’s latest rule‑of‑law report says North Macedonia’s courts and public prosecutor’s office are subject to systemic political influence. It notes delays in high‑corruption cases, limited judicial independence and low public trust, warning that reforms must go beyond formal changes. The opposition SDSM welcomed the findings, stating “the Commission confirmed what we have been saying for months – Christian Mickovski and the VMRO‑DPMNE are exerting systematic pressure on the judiciary and the prosecution and corruption goes unpunished.” The report also highlighted positive steps, such as improvements to the Constitutional Court and new legislation on the Judicial Council, but called for stronger merit‑based appointments, clearer disciplinary procedures and protection against political interference. The Commission urged North Macedonia to continue reforms to meet EU accession standards.