AARC supports students in North Macedonia: Denial of the Albanian language, a shame and an insult to democracy

The Albanian-American Relations Council (AARC) expresses its full and unwavering support for law students in North Macedonia, who are peacefully protesting for their fundamental right to take the Bar Exam in their native Albanian language.

“It is deeply disturbing – and frankly unacceptable – that in 2026, students are forced to take to the streets to demand what is not a privilege, but a right clearly guaranteed under the constitutional and legal framework of the state.

The right to use the Albanian language in official proceedings is based on the Constitution of North Macedonia, as amended after the Ohrid Agreement, as well as the Law on the Use of Languages. These legal instruments explicitly affirm the equality of languages ​​spoken by at least 20% of the population, including Albanian, in public institutions and processes. Denying the opportunity to take the Bar Exam in Albanian is not only contrary to these provisions – it is a direct insult to them.

This issue was resolved a generation ago through the Ohrid Agreement, a cornerstone of stability that has enabled North Macedonia to evolve into a more inclusive, democratic and internationally respected state. The country’s progress – its internal cohesion, its Euro-Atlantic trajectory and its alignment with European standards – has been built on the principle of equality among its citizens. Undermining these principles now is both short-sighted and dangerous,” the AARC stresses.

This well-known lobbying organization has also conveyed a disturbing message to Albanian politics in the Republic of Macedonia.

“We must also express our deep disappointment with Albanian political representatives who have remained absent, passive or ineffective on this issue. Their duty is not symbolic – it is to actively defend the rights of the voters they represent. On an issue so clear, so fundamental and so firmly based in law, there is no excuse for silence or inaction. This failure is not simply political; it is an abdication of responsibility. At the same time, we warn all parties against politicizing this issue. Fundamental rights are not bargaining chips, nor should they be subject to partisan maneuvers. This is a matter of law, equality and basic human dignity – nothing more and nothing less. To the students: your cause is just. Your voice is being heard. And you are not alone. AARC stands with you”, AARC emphasizes. (INA)