The Prespa agreement on changing the constitutional name, which according to the EU was historic, and the Treaty of good neighborly relations with Bulgaria, provided the country with another clear recommendation from the European Commission to start accession negotiations with the Union. According to the report, the country received praise for well-organized presidential elections and increased trust among different ethnic communities.

The elections were well organized that allowed the citizens to be well informed about the choice of candidates. Parliament improved its work as a place for constructive political dialogue. The Ohrid Framework Agreement has become part of the Preamble to the Constitution and continues to be implemented.

The European Commission believes the country is undergoing “fundamental changes in an inclusive and open political atmosphere” and that concrete results are visible in all key reform areas: the judiciary, the fight against corruption and organized crime, intelligence services, in particular the establishment of OTA. Regarding the SPO, the European Commission notes that this body has proven its leading role in prosecuting high-profile corruption. However, Brussels recommends that reforms need to be strengthened more specifically in the area of ​​rule of law and the fight against corruption.

The authorities need to further strengthen the efforts and show that the fight against corruption is a national priority at all levels of authority. However, corruption is widespread in many areas and remains an issue of concern.

Freedom of the media and freedom of expression continues to improve, the Commission’s report said. However, they say, it is essential that state officials and political elites demonstrate a higher level of tolerance towards public criticism.

The country must make significant efforts to secure the independence and professional standards of the public broadcasting service, but also to secure its financial viability.

The report also notes the good cooperation that the country has with its neighbors and with the EU member states over the migration wave issue. They are said to have effective control of the southern border, but note, however, that the problem of illegal transportation of migrants must be solved, especially towards the northern border of the country.