Marta Kos Rejects Mickoski’s Political Ambitions in North Macedonia

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has reiterated that North Macedonia must amend its constitution to progress toward European Union membership. Following a meeting in Skopje with Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, Kos stated that constitutional changes are the mandatory next step for starting accession negotiations, while emphasizing that the EU expansion process relies on fulfilled obligations rather than preliminary guarantees.

Why is the constitutional change a prerequisite for EU talks?

According to Commissioner Marta Kos, the constitutional amendment is the specific “necessary next step” required to unlock the opening of formal accession negotiations. The EU position, as outlined by Kos in Skopje, maintains that the path to membership is built on trust, the fulfillment of pre-agreed commitments, and rigorous adherence to reform criteria.

This stance contrasts with the view expressed by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski. Mickoski stated that he expects European integration to remain a process based on clear criteria and reforms, rather than one “burdened by bilateral issues” that lead to uncertainty among citizens.

What is the timeline for Western Balkan expansion?

Commissioner Kos noted that the EU enlargement process has accelerated significantly, with more progress achieved in the last 18 months than in the previous 15 years combined. The European Commission holds a target for the EU to welcome a new member from the Western Balkans by 2028.

Kos encouraged the North Macedonian government to initiate the constitutional process soon, asserting that the country has a clear place within the bloc. However, she clarified that the accession process is not driven by “preliminary guarantees” granted to candidate states, but by the hard work and implementation of agreed-upon reforms.

How do the parties differ on the negotiation process?

The current impasse highlights a fundamental disagreement regarding the nature of the integration process:

• European Commission: Views the process as a strict, criteria-based system where constitutional changes are a non-negotiable prerequisite for advancement.
• North Macedonian Government: Through Prime Minister Mickoski, the government has expressed concern that bilateral disputes create frustration and hinder the perceived fairness of the integration path.

FAQ: North Macedonia and EU Accession

Is the constitutional change mandatory for EU entry?
Yes. According to Commissioner Marta Kos, it remains the necessary next step to initiate formal negotiations.

What is the EU’s goal for Western Balkan expansion?
The European Commission aims for the integration of a new member from the Western Balkans by 2028.

What are the key infrastructure priorities for the region?
Commissioner Kos highlighted the importance of Corridor 8 (linking Albania and Bulgaria) and Corridor 10 (linking Serbia and Greece) as essential for North Macedonia’s European integration.