A recently proposed government-backed legislation would drastically tighten restrictions on the use of tobacco and vapes, causing widespread discontent in citizens; as nearly half of adult population smokes, health officials say stricter rules are vital

Cuts to North Macedonia’s rare diseases programme have alarmed patient organisations; the state program provides therapy for 430 patients, and is set to be cut from 24 million euros to 17,5 million euros in 2026

Dozens of patients were treated on New Year's Eve in Skopje for injuries sustained from accidents, falls, fireworks, alcohol and firearms, but no traffic accidents were recorded in town probably thanks to the Safe City system

A 100 million euros investment in energy sector has been signed; agreements plan the realization of photovoltaic power plant "Bitola 3" and revitalization of hydropower plants

Evzoni/Bogorodica) and Niki/Medzitlija border crossings with Greece have once again been blocked by Greek farmers protesting against 2026 budget