Judgment Reviews Law at North Macedonia
Here is an overview of key judicial developments in North Macedonia as of April 2025:
⚖️ Judicial Reforms and Challenges
1. EU-Driven Reforms and Judicial Independence
North Macedonia has undertaken several judicial reforms aimed at enhancing the independence, efficiency, and professionalism of its judiciary. However, the European Commission's 2024 Rule of Law Report indicates that concerns remain regarding the protection of the judiciary from undue political influence. Despite adopting a new justice strategy, the perceived independence of the judiciary remains low, and institutional capacity to safeguard it is a serious concern.
2. Controversial Amendments to the Criminal Code
In 2023, the parliament passed amendments to the criminal code that reduced sentences for abuse of office and involvement in a criminal enterprise. These changes led to the expiration of several high-profile corruption cases. In February 2025, the Constitutional Court ordered the parliament to revise these amendments within six months, warning that failure to do so could result in annulment.
🏛️ Key Court Decisions
3. Temporary Suspension of Ethnic Quotas in Public Employment
In September 2024, the Constitutional Court temporarily froze the "Balancer" mechanism, which mandates ethnic quotas in public sector hiring This decision came after the State Anti-Corruption Commission challenged the constitutionality of the mechanism The court's final ruling could significantly impact inter-ethnic relations and employment practices in the multiethnic country
4. Detention Orders Following Deadly Nightclub Fire
In March 2025, authorities detained 13 individuals, including a former government minister, in connection with a nightclub fire that resulted in 59 deaths The suspects face charges related to negligence and illegal actions that led to the tragedy the case has prompted nationwide safety inspections of nightclubs and cafes
📚 Legal Reforms and Initiatives
5. Amendments to the Law on Free Legal Aid
In September 2024, the parliament adopted amendments to the Law on Free Legal Aid to align with the Law on Expertis. These changes aim to resolve backlogs and ensure access to justice by clearly defining procedures for expert examinations and testimony in cases involving free legal ai.
6. Anticipated Legal Reforms
Looking ahead, North Macedonia plans to adopt a new Civil Code by the end of 2025, which will regulate civil-legal relation. Additionally, reforms in public administration and a new Law on the Judicial Council are expected to be introduced to strengthen the legal framework and align with European Union standard.
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