The European Commission’s 2026 Progress Report on North Macedonia will be handed to Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski today by the European Union’s ambassador to the country, Michalis Rokas. Following their meeting at the government building, the two are expected to hold a joint press conference.
In the published document, the EC recognizes North Macedonia’s progress in implementing the Reform Agenda. However, further integration into the European Union remains conditional on the adoption of constitutional amendments.
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According to the 2026 report, no efforts have been made to adopt the constitutional amendments stemming from the conclusions of the Council of July 18, 2022. These amendments provide for the inclusion in the Constitution of citizens belonging to other nations, including Bulgarians.
EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said the Commission aims to open the first negotiating cluster as soon as the conditions have been met. She emphasized that the next step is now in North Macedonia’s hands.
On judicial reform, the European Commission’s assessment notes several steps forward. However, interference by other branches of government, coupled with a significant shortage of financial resources and staff, continues to undermine the judiciary’s independence and financial autonomy.
The fight against corruption has made no progress, while its prevalence remains a serious concern. The report also notes that amendments to the Criminal Code in January 2026 have not reversed the negative effects of the 2023 changes.
Regarding democratic institutions, the EC links delays in adopting important reform legislation to political polarization. For a large number of negotiating chapters, the document finds only limited progress or none at all.
The report also raises concerns about pressure on journalists, shortcomings in human rights protection, and the implementation of electoral recommendations. Freedom of expression has seen no progress, while the public broadcaster and the regulatory body continue to face difficulties in securing their financial and administrative autonomy.
On good-neighborly relations, the European Commission calls for further efforts to improve dialogue with Bulgaria and for the consistent implementation of bilateral agreements. The document also notes instances in which government members and senior officials do not use the country’s constitutional name, a practice that could negatively affect relations with Greece.
