North Macedonia: Citizens and environmental activists gathered in the capital city of Skopje on 31 January 2026 to demand stronger measures against air pollution, particularly caused by operations at the Usje cement plant, according to local press. The protest, organised by the civic initiative Stop for Usje, began outside the government building and called on authorities to prioritise public health and ensure the plant operates in full compliance with environmental standards. Aleksandar Todeski, one of the activists, said institutions should act in the interest of citizens and announced that demonstrations would continue. In December 2025, the Skopje Metropolitan City Council authorised Mayor Orce Gjorgjievski to apply to the government regarding the relocation of the plant away from residential areas.
Skopje protest targets Usje cement plant pollution
