Recent political developments in North Macedonia have highlighted the country’s ongoing challenges in its EU accession process and its evolving role within NATO. With the appointment of Radmila Šekerinska as NATO’s deputy secretary-general, North Macedonia is poised to strengthen its international relations while grappling with bilateral disputes that have hindered its EU ambitions.
Key Takeaways
- Radmila Šekerinska appointed as NATO deputy secretary-general, marking a significant milestone for North Macedonia.
- Bilateral disputes, particularly with Bulgaria, continue to obstruct North Macedonia’s EU accession.
- Public support for EU membership is declining, with only 60-65% of the population in favor.
- Experts call for a reevaluation of the EU’s negotiating framework to include merit-based elements.
NATO’s New Deputy Secretary-General
Radmila Šekerinska, the former defense minister of North Macedonia, has been appointed as NATO’s deputy secretary-general. This appointment is historic as she becomes the first official from North Macedonia to hold this position. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in Šekerinska’s capabilities, emphasizing her commitment to the alliance and her understanding of the challenges faced by new member states.
Šekerinska’s tenure as defense minister from 2017 to 2022 has equipped her with valuable experience in defense and international relations, which she will now bring to her new role at NATO.
EU Accession Challenges
Despite the positive development in NATO, North Macedonia’s path to EU membership remains fraught with difficulties. Bilateral disputes, particularly with Bulgaria, have significantly hampered the accession process. Recent discussions at the Belgrade Security Conference revealed that the current EU negotiating framework, which includes conditions set by Bulgaria, is unsustainable.
Key points from the conference include:
- A decline in public support for EU membership, dropping from over 90% in 2004-2005 to around 60-65% today.
- Concerns that compliance with bilateral demands has overshadowed genuine reforms necessary for EU integration.
- Calls for the EU to adopt a more merit-based approach in its negotiations with North Macedonia.
The Role of Bilateral Disputes
The ongoing bilateral disputes have not only stalled North Macedonia’s EU accession but have also led to a sense of disillusionment among the populace. Experts argue that the EU’s insistence on resolving these disputes before progressing with accession talks has created a perception of stagnation.
Malinka Ristevska Jordanova, a member of North Macedonia’s Security Council, highlighted that the political elite’s focus on bilateral agreements has detracted from essential reforms, leading to significant backsliding in the country’s democratic processes.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the future of North Macedonia’s EU aspirations hinges on resolving these bilateral disputes and restoring public confidence in the accession process. The EU must recognize the detrimental impact of these disputes on its credibility and consider reforms to its negotiating framework that prioritize merit and genuine progress.
As North Macedonia navigates these complex political waters, the appointment of Radmila Šekerinska to NATO’s leadership role may provide a platform for enhanced international cooperation and support, potentially aiding the country in its quest for EU membership.
Sources
- North Macedonia’s Sekerinska Becomes NATO Deputy Chief, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
- Bilateral disputes harmed EU accession of North Macedonia, current framework unsustainable – European Western Balkans, European Western Balkans.
- North Macedonia’s Radmila Šekerinska appointed NATO deputy secretary general, belganewsagency.eu.
- June 23 is a decisive date for North Macedonia, the removal of the veto is still not commented on by Brussels officials – Telegrafi – Telegrafi, Telegrafi.
- Vigenin: There is no reason to lift the veto against North Macedonia – Telegraph – Telegraph, Telegrafi.
