VMRO-DPMNE Secures Majority in North Macedonia's Parliament Amid Political Shifts

On May 28, 2024, the 11th legislature of the Assembly of North Macedonia was constituted, marking a significant political shift in the country. The nationalist opposition party, VMRO-DPMNE, emerged victorious in the parliamentary elections, securing the most mandates with at least 59 seats out of 120.

The outcome of the North Macedonian parliamentary elections has significant implications for the country's future, including its EU integration and inter-ethnic relations. The VMRO-DPMNE's stance on these issues could impact the country's economic and political stability, and its relationships with neighboring countries, the international community.

The ruling Social Democrats (SDSM) conceded defeat, winning only 19 seats. Dimitar Kovacevski, former prime minister and leader of the SDSM, acknowledged the outcome, stating, "I congratulate our political opponent VMRO-DPMNE with this victory in the elections."

In addition to their parliamentary success, VMRO-DPMNE-backed candidate Gordana Siljanovska Davkova is set to become North Macedonia's first woman president, defeating incumbent president Stevo Pendarovski in the presidential runoff.

The victory of VMRO-DPMNE has raised concerns about the potential impact on North Macedonia's aspirations to join the European Union. Party leader Hristijan Mickoski has refused to acknowledge the country's new name and the historic agreement with Greece in 2018, which allowed North Macedonia to join NATO. Bulgaria's demand for constitutional changes to acknowledge its Bulgarian minority has also stalled EU accession talks.

Economically, North Macedonia faces significant challenges, including poor performance, high inflation, and mass emigration. Around 10% of the population has left the country over the past two decades. VMRO-DPMNE has promised to create tens of thousands of jobs, a message that resonated with many voters.

The party's aggressive stance towards the country's largest Albanian party, the DUI, has raised concerns about fragile inter-ethnic relations. Albanians comprise over a quarter of North Macedonia's population. Political scientist Ivon Veličkovski warns of the risk of majorization, where the majority rules over the Albanian minority, a recurring pattern in the country's history.

In the newly constituted parliament, Afrim Gashi from the VLEN coalition was elected Speaker of the Assembly with 76 votes in favor. Gashi, an ethnic Albanian, had the support of VMRO-DPMNE. Prior to his election, Gashi resigned as chairman of the Alternative party, a legal requirement for his new role.

VMRO-DPMNE's victory and the formation of the new coalition government bring significant changes to North Macedonia's political scenery. The party is expected to take control of key ministries, including interior affairs, foreign affairs, defense, and finance. Vlen will manage health, economy, European integration, environment, and social policy portfolios.

As North Macedonia enters this new political era, the actions and policies of VMRO-DPMNE will be closely scrutinized, both domestically and internationally. The government's approach to EU integration, economic reforms, and inter-ethnic relations will be critical in shaping the country's future.

Key Takeaways

• VMRO-DPMNE wins North Macedonia's parliamentary elections with 59 seats.
• Gordana Siljanovska Davkova set to become North Macedonia's first woman president.
• VMRO-DPMNE's victory raises concerns about EU integration and inter-ethnic relations.
• Party promises to create jobs and address economic challenges, including high inflation.
• Afrim Gashi elected Speaker of the Assembly, supported by VMRO-DPMNE.