North Macedonia, Methamophosis (2024), Stability Under Threat - FIMI in North Macedonia, Analytical report on the Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) in the Republic of North Macedonia.

Country

North Macedonia

Title

North Macedonia, Methamophosis (2024), Stability Under Threat - FIMI in North Macedonia, Analytical report on the Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) in the Republic of North Macedonia.

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Year

2024

Publication type

Report - unofficial (CSO) data on incidents

Geographical coverage

National

Area/location of interest

Not applicable - national level

Type of Institution

Civil Society Organisation

Institution

North Macedonia, CSO Metamorphosis

Thematic focus

Hate speech: Public incitement to hatred or violence

Groups

General population

Key findings

The report highlights issues around media regulation, political narratives, and ethnic polarization in North Macedonia. It notes the influence of online commentators and political figures, including anti-Albanian sentiments in public discourse, and mentions the lack of a legal framework for online media, with self-regulation being attempted through the "Promedia" registry. The report also discusses the inadequate capacity of regulatory bodies like the Agency for Audio and Audiovisual Media Services. Moreover, political rhetoric, including from Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, further fuels ethnic divisions and undermines trust in institutions. Political Party Levica has reinforced anti-Albanian rhetoric, presenting itself as a counterbalance to ethnic Albanian political parties in the Assembly. Their stance has contributed to the rise in hate speech and societal division.

Methodology (Qualitative/Quantitative and exact type used, questionnaires etc)

The report uses a qualitative research methodology. It analyzes the impact of foreign-sponsored disinformation and influence operations on North Macedonia’s political discourse, inter-ethnic relations, and democratic processes. The authors draw on diverse sources, including media monitoring, public statements, political narratives, and reports from civil society and institutional stakeholders.

Sample details and representativeness

N/A - not applicable/available

DISCLAIMERThe information presented here is collected under contract by the FRA's research network FRANET. The information and views contained do not necessarily reflect the views or the official position of the FRA.