INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND REINTEGRATION STRATEGIES IN NORTH MACEDONIA'S FIGHT AGAINST VIOLENT EXTREMISM
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20544/uklop.2026.623Keywords:
North Macedonia, violent extremism, counter-terrorism, reintegration, Western BalkansAbstract
Introduction: Current security challenges within the broader geopolitical context are significantly impacting North Macedonia. The objective of this study is to examine North Macedonia's strategies in countering violent extremism (CVE), addressing the reintegration of returnees, and improving intergovernmental coordination.
Methods: The research employs a qualitative approach, drawing on official reports, government documents, policy frameworks, and secondary academic sources related to North Macedonia's counter-terrorism and CVE efforts.
Results: Findings indicate that North Macedonia has established a reintegration strategy for approximately 40 of its citizens affiliated with the Islamic State. Around 50 individuals have been convicted of terrorism-related crimes. However, challenges persist, including lenient sentencing, limited reintegration outcomes, and weak interinstitutional coordination.
Discussion: While North Macedonia has introduced legal and financial measures to monitor returnees and initiated collaborative reintegration programs, these efforts remain fragmented. Overlapping competences among institutions continue to obstruct efficiency. A proactive, well-coordinated approach is essential for strengthening resilience against extremism.
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References
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