Mojanoski: North Macedonia is one of the routes for drug trafficking from the Middle East

University professor from Skopje, Cane Mojanoski, stated that security service data indicate that North Macedonia is one of the routes for drug trafficking from the Middle East to Western Europe, and that the increasing drug abuse is a consequence of individuals' alienation, as they seek escape in substances that "distance them from everyday problems."

"North Macedonia is one of the paths or routes used for the illegal drug trade from the Middle East to Western European countries. The modern world truly exists in an environment where drug abuse or illegal drug use is dominant or present. Various research results point to this," Mojanoski told Kosovo Online.

He notes that there are no official national statistics providing a real picture of the number of drug addicts, but the situation can be inferred from criminal offenses related to drug trafficking or production in North Macedonia.

"The Ministry of Interior, in its annual reports, provides a range of data related to crimes in this area. According to 2023 data – since last year's report has not yet been released – there was a 10.55% increase in drug-related criminal offenses," Mojanoski said.

He says that there has also been an increase in the number of offenses related to "unauthorized production and distribution of narcotic drugs and other substances."

While there were 633 such crimes recorded in 2018, the number rose to 866 in 2023.

These figures should be compared with a third category of crimes – "enabling drug use" – which varied from 116 cases in 2018 to 93 in 2023.

Mojanoski points out that some studies indicate that one to two-thirds of respondents use alcohol and cocaine.

To support this claim, he cited a recent statement by Muarem Ismaili, an imam at one of Skopje's mosques, who commented on the increasing cases of murders and law violations. Ismaili stated that many worshippers who attend prayers might be found carrying drugs if their pockets were checked.

"What does this tell us? That our societal system lacks genuine actors who practice or insist on respecting moral and traditional values. Our value system has been significantly disrupted, and, as in other historical periods, the desire for profit has become a central interest at the expense of other values such as morality, faith, mutual respect, and creating conditions for a healthy future," Mojanoski emphasized.

He adds that research data shows that North Macedonia does not differ significantly from Croatia or Serbia in terms of alcohol and marijuana consumption. The latest figures indicate that cannabis use is reported by 75% of respondents in Croatia, 63% in Serbia, and as much as 71% in North Macedonia.

"A 2024 study covering more than 30 countries found that 65% of those who admitted using cannabis said they consume it because they feel stressed and want to relax. This suggests that individuals in society feel alienated and significantly lonely, often seeking an escape in substances that distance them from their daily struggles rather than addressing them," Mojanoski noted.

He stresses that combating all forms of addiction requires greater state involvement. However, he points out that this demands strong determination, as drug trafficking remains one of the most lucrative illegal businesses.

"This fight is somewhat reminiscent of David versus Goliath, where criminal structures involved in illegal substances often exploit state resources or institutional unpreparedness to tackle the issue effectively. This is not just a problem of the Western Balkans, but due to its social and other characteristics, it emerges as a pressing everyday topic. However, the same issue is prevalent in other countries as well. The fight against drug trafficking, both in Europe and in the Balkans, will require joint, coordinated efforts. Cooperation between state institutions and civil society can make a significant contribution to combating this major issue in modern society," Mojanoski concluded.