Union slams government-approved pay rise as “illegal” and insufficient amid sharp public backlash.
North Macedonia’s Federation of Trade Unions (LSM) took to the streets of Skopje this week, demanding that the national minimum wage be increased to €500. The protest follows the government’s decision to raise the minimum wage by just 1,800 denars (€29), bringing it to 24,379 denars (€396) as of March—a figure LSM says falls well short of what the law and workers require.
The protest began outside the House of Workers, with LSM leadership holding an open session in the street. Demonstrators then marched to parliament, the Chamber of Commerce, and finally the government building, calling for stronger wage increases and better protections for workers.
Union leader Slobodan Trendafilov condemned a recent 79% pay rise for public officials—including lawmakers—calling it “undeserved” and tone-deaf in a time of wage stagnation for ordinary workers.
“We are here to demand that the minimum wage be no less than €500, and that all remaining wages be increased by €100,” Trendafilov told protesters. He also challenged lawmakers to reduce their own salaries to the minimum wage until workers’ demands are met.
The union has also accused the government of bypassing legal procedures in setting the current wage policy and has called for a new, worker-focused formula for setting national pay levels.
Economy Minister Besar Durmishi defended the government’s decision, saying the 1,800-denar raise complies with existing labor laws.
