Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski today (2 November 2026) addressed the opening session of the assessment visit by the United Nations Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED), taking place in Skopje from 2 to 6 November. The United Nations delegation is headed by CTED Deputy Executive Director Carmen Cantor.
The purpose of the visit is to assess the implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions, review national capacities and challenges in countering terrorism and violent extremism, and identify opportunities to further strengthen the institutional response and international cooperation.
In his address, Minister Toshkovski emphasised that the visit represents an important opportunity for a comprehensive assessment of the country's progress, particularly considering that the previous assessment of this kind was conducted in 2011.
“Over the past fifteen years, North Macedonia has undergone significant institutional, legislative and structural reforms, strengthening its security capacities and reaffirming its role as a responsible partner in maintaining regional and international stability. We remain committed to further developing a system capable of identifying threats at an early stage, effectively preventing them and ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Toshkovski stressed.
The Minister noted that mechanisms for interinstitutional coordination, operational information sharing and cooperation between the police, intelligence services and border management authorities have been enhanced in recent years. At the same time, particular attention has been devoted to preventing violent extremism, the early identification of radicalisation, deradicalisation and resocialisation, through the involvement of local communities, educational institutions and civil society organisations.
Speaking about future priorities, Toshkovski announced the adoption of a revised National Counter-Terrorism Strategy, with particular emphasis on online radicalisation and emerging security threats.
“Terrorist threats are increasingly shifting into the digital environment. That is why we have already initiated the process of establishing a specialised National Unit for Monitoring and Countering Terrorist Content Online. At the same time, we are planning interinstitutional simulation exercises to protect critical infrastructure and address hybrid threats, with the involvement of the private sector,” the Minister stated.
During the five-day assessment visit, a range of areas will be examined, including counter-terrorism legislation, combating terrorist financing, border security, international police and judicial cooperation, preventing radicalisation, the misuse of the internet and emerging technologies, and the protection of critical infrastructure. Field visits to Skopje International Airport and the Tabanovce border crossing are also scheduled.
During the closing sessions, the delegation will present its preliminary findings and recommendations, which will serve as a basis for further strengthening national capacities.
Minister Toshkovski reaffirmed the Ministry of Interior's readiness to cooperate fully with the United Nations expert team, emphasising that objective assessment and the international exchange of experience are essential to building a more resilient and effective security system.
“We see this assessment as an opportunity to confirm the progress achieved, but also to identify areas where further improvements are needed. Countering terrorism requires constant vigilance, strong institutions and international partnerships. Our ultimate goal remains to protect our citizens and ensure a stable and secure country,” Toshkovski concluded.
