I. Introduction: A State in Perpetual Crisis 
North Macedonia has spent much of its three decades of independence grappling with political instability. Despite important achievements, such as NATO membership and progress toward EU accession, governance remains plagued by fragile coalitions, corruption scandals, and partisan deadlock. For ordinary citizens, the cycle of instability translates into uncertainty, inefficiency, and hopelessness. Frustrated by the lack of progress, many Macedonians choose to emigrate, seeking stability and opportunity elsewhere. 

II. Historical Roots of Instability 
Since gaining independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, North Macedonia’s political scene has been dominated by rivalry between two main parties: the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) and the Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization – Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE). Elections are frequently contested, and transitions of power are marked by boycotts, protests, and allegations of fraud. This history of instability has undermined public trust in governance and created a culture of political polarisation. 

III. Fragile Coalition Governments 
North Macedonia’s multi-ethnic composition requires coalition governments that include both Macedonian and Albanian parties. While this arrangement promotes inclusivity, it also creates fragile alliances prone to collapse. Disagreements over language rights, resource distribution, and ethnic representation frequently stall decision-making. The result is governance marked by compromise and deadlock, leaving critical reforms delayed or abandoned. 

IV. Corruption and Weak Institutions 
Political instability is compounded by systemic corruption and weak institutions. Public administration is often captured by party interests, and the judiciary lacks independence. High-profile corruption scandals involving senior officials reinforce the perception that accountability is absent. This culture of impunity fuels public cynicism and contributes to the decision of many to seek justice and fairness abroad. 

V. Everyday Consequences of Instability 
For citizens, governance instability creates daily struggles: 

- Economic uncertainty: investors hesitate to commit in an unstable political climate. 
- Unemployment: particularly high among youth, with few prospects for career advancement. 
- Public services: healthcare and education suffer from underfunding and mismanagement. 
- Erosion of trust: citizens lose faith in institutions that appear unable to deliver results. 

These conditions push many Macedonians to view emigration as their only viable option. 

VI. Migration Trends 
The instability in governance has directly contributed to rising emigration. Germany, Switzerland, and Italy remain top destinations, attracting both skilled professionals and low-wage workers. The phenomenon of brain drain is particularly pronounced, with doctors, engineers, and young graduates leaving in large numbers. For many, migration is not only about better economic opportunities but also about escaping a system they see as fundamentally broken. 

VII. The Role of Ethnic Politics 
Ethnic divisions exacerbate instability. Tensions between the Macedonian majority and the Albanian minority often shape political negotiations and coalition-building. While the Ohrid Framework Agreement of 2001 secured greater rights for Albanians and prevented renewed conflict, its implementation remains a source of political friction. These unresolved ethnic tensions feed instability and deepen public frustration. 

VIII. International Assessments 
International organisations have repeatedly criticised North Macedonia for its unstable governance. The European Union has delayed accession talks over concerns about rule of law, corruption, and political polarisation. Reports by Freedom House and Transparency International highlight limited institutional capacity and high levels of corruption. These assessments reinforce the perception among citizens that international observers share their concerns about domestic governance. 

IX. Consequences for the Country’s Future 
The consequences of instability are far-reaching. The exodus of skilled workers undermines North Macedonia’s economic potential. Demographic decline threatens sustainability, while civil society is weakened by the departure of reform-minded activists. Internationally, persistent instability damages the country’s credibility and complicates its aspirations for EU membership. Without stability, North Macedonia risks stagnation and marginalisation in the wider region. 

X. Pathways to Stability 
To stem emigration and restore public trust, North Macedonia must: 

- Build stronger, more independent institutions. 
- Implement anti-corruption reforms and prosecute high-level cases. 
- Encourage inclusive governance that addresses ethnic tensions. 
- Strengthen political accountability and electoral integrity. 
- Accelerate EU integration to provide a framework for reforms. 

These steps are essential to creating a stable environment where citizens feel confident about their future. 

XI. Conclusion: Leaving to Find Stability 
For many Macedonians, emigration is not simply about economic opportunity but about escaping instability and reclaiming a sense of security. Governance crises have created an environment where trust in the state is low and faith in the future is fading. Unless North Macedonia confronts its political instability and builds durable institutions, it risks losing more of its citizens to emigration, further undermining the stability it so desperately needs.