Institutional challenges in North Macedonian state agencies

Institutional audits and internal reviews in North Macedonia have highlighted various operational and demographic challenges within state agencies.

At the Public Revenue Directorate, concerns have emerged regarding ethnic representation in recruitment. Reports indicate that in a recent competition for 77 positions, only 12 were filled by ethnic Albanians, while 65 were filled by members of the Macedonian community. This follows a reported trend where Albanian representation in internal competitions has remained between 10 and 15 percent over the last three years. Data from the 2024 Ombudsman shows that of 946 employees, 70 percent are Macedonians and 25 percent are Albanians, with a more pronounced disparity in leadership roles. The Directorate has denied claims of bias, stating recruitment is based on merit and transparent criteria.

Separately, an audit of the State Market Inspectorate revealed critical staffing shortages and digital deficiencies. The agency operated with only 148 inspectors, which is 47 percent of its authorized 313 positions. The State Audit Office noted issues with the accuracy of financial reports, incomplete implementation of the ‘E-inspector’ application, and a lack of a unified electronic database. The audit also identified a shortage of leadership, noting that five departments currently lack heads.