Thousands rally in N Macedonia ahead of trial over deadly nightclub fire
Summary
Thousands of people protested in North Macedonia's capital, Skopje, demanding justice for the 63 people who died in a nightclub fire in March. A trial is set to begin for 34 individuals and three companies accused of being responsible for the fire, which occurred due to safety violations at the unlicensed club. The European Union has expressed concerns about persistent corruption in North Macedonia.Key Facts
- The nightclub fire occurred on March 16 during a hip-hop concert in Kocani.
- The fire killed 63 people and injured about 200 others.
- Most of the victims were young, between 16 and 26 years old.
- Protesters blame corruption and safety failures for the tragedy.
- Authorities say the fire started with a pyrotechnic flame that set the club's roof on fire.
- The venue had serious safety violations and was unlicensed.
- Defendants in the trial include the club owner, security guards, and former local officials.
- North Macedonia ranks poorly on the Corruption Perception Index and faces EU concerns over corruption.
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