The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, published a memorandum today on the human rights of Roma and the human rights implications of serious environmental challenges in North Macedonia, following his visit from 22 to 25 April 2025.

Regarding the human rights of Roma, the Commissioner commends North Macedonia’s long-standing commitment, particularly through the National Strategy for Roma Inclusion (2022–2030). He acknowledges efforts by government bodies, the Ombudsperson, and the Commission for Prevention and Protection from Discrimination, and notes the key role of civil society in empowering Roma communities. He welcomes the involvement of Roma women in all these structures.

The Commissioner notes progress in Roma children’s access to education and highlights good practices. However, he urges improved access to preschool; targeted efforts to reduce dropout rates by addressing the key causes, including poverty, migration and early marriage; and action to address the plight of the estimated 400 children in street situations. He stresses the need to eliminate school segregation of Roma children through enforcement of catchment area rules, local desegregation plans designed with Roma input, outreach to non-Roma parents and monitoring of progress through a national mapping of affected schools. He encourages continued commitment to implementing the European Court of Human Rights’ judgment in Elmazova v. North Macedonia.

Concerning policing and justice, while welcoming the acknowledgement of police violence against Roma as a manifestation of antigypsyism in the national strategy, the Commissioner expresses concern over continued reports of ethnic profiling, excessive use of force during arrests, and impunity for cases of unlawful use of force. He recommends that the authorities reiterate their stance of zero-tolerance for police violence, including against Roma. This should be followed through with effective investigations into allegations of abuse, including possible racist motives, and action on the fight against impunity for such acts. He also recommends strengthening the External Oversight Mechanism.

The Commissioner further commends progress in eradicating statelessness and improving civil registration among Roma which is crucial to ensure access to human rights. He recommends full implementation of the new legal frameworks and proactive engagement with vulnerable communities to prevent future cases.

The Commissioner also raises concerns about environmental risks disproportionately affecting Roma, including air and waste pollution, lack of sanitation, and exclusion from public services. He notes the positive contribution of Roma informal waste recyclers and is impressed by social initiatives to formally recognise and employ them.

Turning to broader environmental issues, the Commissioner notes North Macedonia’s strong legal and policy framework and international commitments, including constitutional recognition of the right to a healthy environment, criminalising ecocide and pledging to phase out coal. Yet, poor implementation negatively impacts health and human rights, with cities like Skopje, Bitola, and Tetovo among the most polluted in Europe. Challenges remain in waste management, pollution control, and public access to environmental information.

Access to effective remedies is central to ensuring a human rights based approach to combating environmental degradation. In light of the October 2024 General Position adopted by the Supreme Court which affirms the right to clean air, the Commissioner recommends ensuring that courts are empowered to address environmental human rights violations. He also recommends training for judges and prosecutors on the interplay between the environment and human rights.

The Commissioner further notes the need to support environmental human rights defenders, including through access to funding and safeguards against vexatious lawsuits.

Finally, the Commissioner observes that member states have a positive obligation under the European Convention on Human Rights to address the effects of climate change. Citing the European Court of Human Rights’ judgment Verein KlimaSeniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland, he recommends adopting the Climate Law as soon as possible, establishing an operational greenhouse gas inventory, and updating the National Determined Contribution under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. He also notes the need to strengthen procedural safeguards through access to public information, participation, and accountability in environmental processes.