Artificial Intelligence law at North Macedonia
As of May 2025, North Macedonia does not have a comprehensive national law specifically governing Artificial Intelligence (AI). While the country has initiated efforts to develop an AI strategy, progress has been slow due to various challenges.(CEE Legal Matters)
🇲🇰 Current Status of AI Regulation in North Macedonia
Lack of Specific AI Legislation: North Macedonia currently lacks dedicated AI-specific regulations, placing it behind neighboring countries that have implemented guidelines or laws. (CEE Legal Matters)
Initiatives for AI Strategy: In 2021, the Macedonian Fund for Innovation and Technology Development (FITD), in cooperation with the government, initiated the formation of a working group to create a National Strategy for AI. However, to date, there are no presentable documents that would advance Macedonia’s AI regulation efforts. (Global Practice Guides)
Challenges in Development: The development of a comprehensive AI strategy has been hindered by insufficient data, human resources, and technical capabilities. Despite this, there is a strong commitment, supported by organizations like the World Bank and UNDP, to develop a strategy aligned with European Union standards. (CEE Legal Matters, CEE Legal Matters)
🧠 AI Development and Support for Startups
Promotion of AI Development: While formal AI regulation is still pending, FITD has been active in promoting AI development through subsidies for startups with innovative AI solutions. One notable initiative is the creation of "ADA", the first Macedonian AI-based digital public administration assistant. (CEE Legal Matters, CEE Legal Matters)
Role of the IT Sector: The IT sector in North Macedonia is keen on advancing AI technologies, supported by competitive labor costs, high-quality output, and government initiatives. The Macedonian ICT Chamber of Commerce (MASIT) plays an active role in promoting and fostering AI solutions among its members. (CEE Legal Matters, Global Practice Guides)
🔐 Data Protection and Privacy Concerns
Alignment with EU Standards: North Macedonia's Data Protection Agency monitors the development and use of AI technologies in the country, striving for a balanced approach between technological advancements and personal data protection rights. (Internet Freedom Platform)
Existing Data Protection Framework: The country has adopted a rulebook on the security of personal data processing, prescribing instructions for data controllers to ensure the security of personal data processing. (DataGuidance)
Need for Legal Updates: Experts assess that the lack of a strategy or legal regulation on the use of AI exposes citizens to the risk of abuse. Therefore, the country must take steps to protect citizens and align with EU regulations. (Internet Freedom Platform)
📈 Future Prospects
Commitment to AI Strategy: Despite current challenges, there is a strong commitment to developing a comprehensive AI strategy that aligns with European Union standards. This includes efforts to harmonize national laws with EU legislation in the area of personal data protection and digitization processes. (CEE Legal Matters, Агенција за заштита на личните податоци)
Need for Ethical Guidelines: There is growing demand for establishing ethical guidelines for AI development and use. These guidelines, though non-binding, are essential for ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems. (Mondaq)
✅ Summary
Current Status: No specific AI laws or regulations in North Macedonia.(Mondaq)
Initiatives: Formation of a working group to create a National Strategy for AI.(Global Practice Guides)
Challenges: Insufficient data, human resources, and technical capabilities.(CEE Legal Matters)
Support for Startups: Subsidies for AI startups and development of "ADA", the first Macedonian AI-based digital public administration assistant.(CEE Legal Matters)
Data Protection: Alignment with EU standards and adoption of a rulebook on the security of personal data processing.(DataGuidance)
Future Prospects: Commitment to developing a comprehensive AI strategy and establishing ethical guidelines.(CEE Legal Matters)
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