VMRO Party Wins Elections in North Macedonia

VMRO Wins Parliamentary Elections: What it Means for North Macedonia's Future

This week, North Macedonia's right-wing opposition party, VMRO, achieved a significant victory in the parliamentary elections and the presidential run-off. Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, supported by VMRO, is set to become the country's first female president.

Key Takeaways

• Right-wing opposition VMRO secures victory in North Macedonia's parliamentary elections and presidential run-off, marking a historic win.
• Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova will make history as North Macedonia's first female president, backed by VMRO.
• Concerns arise over potential complications in EU membership talks due to VMRO's resistance to constitutional changes.
• The new president has expressed reservations about a 2019 agreement with Greece but affirms her commitment to honoring it.
• VMRO's unexpectedly strong win strengthens its influence in shaping EU negotiations and domestic policies.

Analysis

The triumph of North Macedonia's right-wing opposition, VMRO, raises concerns about potential delays in the country's EU membership talks due to resistance to constitutional reforms. This may have far-reaching implications for EU institutions, member states, and North Macedonia's economic prospects. The incoming president, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, is likely to confront challenges in steering EU negotiations and addressing domestic policy issues. VMRO's enhanced influence could complicate relations with Greece and Bulgaria, both of which have stipulated conditions for North Macedonia's accession to the EU. In the long run, these developments may jeopardize North Macedonia's EU aspirations and impact regional stability and integration.

Did You Know?

• VMRO: The Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization (VMRO), founded in 1893, is a nationalist political party in North Macedonia espousing conservative and right-wing ideologies. It has played a pivotal role in advocating for Macedonian interests, language, and culture, exerting substantial influence on the nation's political landscape.
• EU Membership Talks and Constitutional Changes: North Macedonia's journey towards EU membership necessitates negotiations and adherence to specific criteria, including constitutional amendments. VMRO's resistance to such changes may impede the EU accession process, potentially hindering the nation's progress in meeting the required standards.
• Greece-North Macedonia Agreement (Prespa Agreement): The 2019 agreement between North Macedonia and Greece aimed to settle a longstanding dispute over the country's name. North Macedonia agreed to alter its constitutional name to "Republic of North Macedonia," while Greece withdrew its objections to North Macedonia's NATO and EU entry. Despite questioning this agreement, President-elect Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova has pledged to uphold it, recognizing the significance of honoring the country's international commitments and bilateral relationships.