In recent weeks, there has been a troubling rise in incidents at sporting events in North Macedonia that promote ethnic hatred and division. At a basketball match between Romania and North Macedonia in Kumanovo, fans chanted horrific slogans calling for the death of Albanians and for their extermination in gas chambers. In response, some Albanian fans at a soccer game in Tetovo displayed banners calling for secession.
This dangerous spiral must be halted immediately. Political leaders from all communities must act decisively to condemn and prevent such expressions of hatred before they further destabilize the country.
The anti-Albanian chants painfully reinforced the long-standing perception among Albanians of being treated as second-class citizens and outsiders in their own homeland. In turn, the secessionist messages stoked fears among Slavic Macedonians about Albanian intentions and the future unity of the state.
Since the Ohrid Framework Agreement was signed in 2001, North Macedonia has made meaningful progress toward ethnic integration and coexistence. While challenges remain, Albanians have moved from the margins to active participation in political, economic, and academic institutions. This progress must not be undone.
Although the government’s condemnation of the hate speech came late, it was firm. Now, Albanian leaders must also unequivocally denounce any rhetoric that undermines the territorial integrity of the country.
During the conflict, Albanians rejected the offer to divide Macedonia along ethnic lines, choosing instead a shared European future. That same principle must continue to guide the nation forward. All sides must work together to eliminate ethnic-based rhetoric and prevent a return to the dark chapters of the past. Only through unity, respect, and leadership can North Macedonia remain on the path toward lasting peace and European integration.
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