ANALYTICAL STUDY OF HATE CRIME MOTIVATED BY ETHNIC AFFILIATION IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA DURING THE PERIOD 2018-2022

Abstract

This paper examines hate crimes motivated by ethnic affiliation in the Republic of North Macedonia during the period 2018–2022. The study relies on empirical data processed from reports by the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights, revealing that ethnic bias is the most prevalent motive behind hate crimes in the country. The findings indicate that such incidents predominantly involve young individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, primarily ethnic Macedonians and Albanians. Through quantitative analysis, the research identifies patterns of increase, stagnation, or decrease in hate crime occurrences, contextualized within broader social polarization and the institutional response. Furthermore, the paper addresses the normative legal framework and the role of law enforcement and the judiciary in tackling hate crimes, offering concrete recommendations for prevention, prosecution, and reintegration of offenders.