A coalition of around 50 civil society organizations and environmental institutions in North Macedonia has asked for a meeting with relevant authorities to discuss guarantees for environmental standards in the proposed 2025–2045 mining strategy. The request was submitted to Energy Minister Sanja Bozinovska and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, according to MKD.mk. The groups say the discussion should address how environmental protections would be ensured under the draft strategy.
Press conference representatives and stated environmental priorities
At a recent press conference, representatives included Liliana Popovska from the Green Institute, Kostadin Ristomanov from Eco Dolina, and Dejan Andonov from the IKS Institute for Communication Studies, among others. The participants said their work focuses on protecting the environment, biodiversity, and human health. They also stated that they support responsible and sustainable use of mineral resources.
The groups said they reviewed the draft mining strategy and identified issues related to alignment with existing laws and strategies. They pointed to frameworks connected to international standards in agriculture, tourism, and environmental protection. They said these areas are intended to preserve water, soil, and air quality amid climate change.
Concerns about legal alignment and environmental principles
The organizations are calling for the mining strategy to follow specific environmental principles. They argue that the draft should be consistent with state documents covering the environment, climate change, and sustainable development. They cited these documents as frameworks that have guided investments in infrastructure and subsidies over recent decades.
The groups rejected what they described as a “mining-centric concept” and the portrayal of Macedonia as a “mining country.” They said this approach conflicts with national and European strategies centered on green energy, circular economy, and environmental conservation. They also warned that expansion without safeguards could affect other economic sectors and weaken Macedonia’s positioning for tourism and agriculture.
Protected areas, distance limits, coal phase-out
The environmentalists said they oppose mining in protected areas and in zones proposed for protection. They specifically cited Kožuf, Ogražden, and Belasica as locations under consideration. They also called for mines to be kept at least 5 km from populated areas or protected sites.
The groups said their position is based on regulations that restrict polluting industries in such zones. In addition, they are calling for an end to coal mining. They also asked for collaboration among energy workers, miners, and environmental advocates to align with climate action plans.
Request for broad discussion and transparent adoption process
The organizations urged a broad societal discussion of the strategic document. They emphasized the need for a transparent adoption process that includes input from all stakeholders. The request for a meeting was framed around securing guarantees for environmental standards within the proposed mining strategy period.