Nightclub Fire in North Macedonia Exposes Corruption and Claims 59 Lives

The tragedy has sparked national outrage, with investigations revealing systemic failures and public protests demanding accountability.

Fifty-nine people, mostly young adults, lost their lives in a fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani, which was operating with a fraudulent license and severe safety violations.
The fire, caused by unauthorized pyrotechnics igniting flammable ceiling material, led to a rapid spread and a deadly stampede in the overcrowded venue.
Authorities have detained 18 individuals, including government officials, and launched inspections uncovering widespread safety violations in other establishments.
Thousands have gathered in Skopje and Kocani for vigils and protests, expressing grief and anger over systemic corruption and regulatory negligence.
Funerals for the victims are set for March 20, as the community mourns the preventable loss of young lives and demands meaningful reforms.