Private legal aspects of the Republic of North Macedonia towards EU

Abstract

Much has been said and done since the Republic of North Macedonia became an EU candidate country. The Republic of North Macedonia deserves progress in moving closer to the European Union and NATO, avoiding obstacles on this path, and starting negotiations. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the path that Macedonia decided to follow long time ago. The Government of the Republic of North Macedonia remains committed to the reforms related to the date for the opening of negotiations for membership in the European Union, despite the recent decision of the EU, as well as NATO membership, first to ensure fair governance, stability, economic development of the country and better life of the citizens. Failure to set a date at a time when North Macedonia has received the most positive report so far, with the recommendation to start talks was a blow to the institutions and the country, primarily due to the closure of one of the most sensitive issues, that of changing of the name. Thus, not giving the date can open many issues, it may eventually return nationalism, radicalism, populism that do not bring progress. The possible consequences for the state are low motivation for reforms, fostering a climate of political division, and even a possible political crisis. Because of these risks, and despite the same ones, the Government must continue its well-directed diplomatic commitments and continue with the reforms, but within the framework of a clearly defined strategy with incorporated national priorities. The general feeling is that the EU, instead of criticizing and setting new conditions for Macedonia, decided to encourage it to continue with the reforms, this may be due to the fear coming from many authors that the countries of the Western Balkans are losing their confidence in the EU integration process.