North Macedonia criticizes Brussels, compares EU accession to Waiting for Godot

North Macedonia’s president and prime minister criticized the European Union for putting stumbling blocks in their EU accession bid due to a dispute with Bulgaria over Balkan history, language, and culture. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski expressed frustration with the EU’s attempt to dictate North Macedonia’s actions and called for no further delays in membership talks. Reports suggested that the EU was moving forward with Albania’s EU accession process independently, potentially separating North Macedonia’s bid. The EU started membership talks with both countries in 2022 but was delayed due to the Bulgaria dispute. To break the impasse, the previous government accepted a Bulgarian demand, which Mickoski’s government now says will only be amended if Bulgaria approves North Macedonia’s EU membership. Mickoski described the linkage of EU prospects with Bulgaria’s demand as unfair and a dictate. President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova compared their EU membership journey to “waiting for Godot” due to ongoing conditions and concessions. The country’s path to the EU was previously blocked by Greece until 2018 when it changed its name from Macedonia. The opposition leader blamed Mickoski’s government for the setback, calling it a disaster for citizens and future generations. The ongoing dispute with Bulgaria continues to hinder North Macedonia’s EU membership prospects, highlighting the challenges faced by the country in joining the 27-nation bloc.

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