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.
View full research
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.