Oct 10, 2024 – North Macedonia’s Constitutional Court has made a controversial ruling by abolishing the “Ethnic Balancer,” a mechanism designed to ensure greater representation of ethnic Albanians in public sector jobs. The court deemed the system unconstitutional, stating that employment based on ethnicity violates the principles of equality enshrined in the constitution.
The decision has ignited a strong backlash from the Albanian opposition party, the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI). Party leaders described the ruling as a “dark day” for Albanians in North Macedonia, arguing that it is discriminatory and could destabilize the country. They claim the move undermines the progress made toward inclusivity and could exacerbate ethnic tensions.
The “Ethnic Balancer” was implemented to address historical inequalities faced by ethnic Albanians, who constitute a significant minority in North Macedonia. Critics of the court’s ruling fear it may hinder efforts to foster a more unified society, potentially leading to unrest.
In the wake of the ruling, the political context in North Macedonia appears increasingly fraught. The DUI’s vocal opposition reflects broader concerns about the treatment of minority rights in the country. As North Macedonia continues to navigate its complex ethnic dynamics, the court’s decision has raised questions about the future of inter-ethnic relations and the stability of the nation.
