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North Macedonia Grieves Nightclub Fire as Safety Failures Prompt Crackdown

The tragedy in Kocani has claimed 59 lives, injured 150, and led to the detention of 16 individuals while exposing systemic safety violations.

Coffins are placed next to the graves as people gather at a cemetery for the funeral ceremony of the victims of a massive nightclub fire in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Thursday, March 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Armin Durgut)
A woman cries leaning on a coffin as people gather at a cemetery for the funeral ceremony of the victims of a massive nightclub fire in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Thursday, March 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Armin Durgut)
Workers dig graves for the victims of a massive nightclub fire in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)
A worker digs graves for the victims of a massive nightclub fire in the town of Kocani, North Macedonia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)

Overview

  • A fire during a concert at Club Pulse in Kocani killed 59 people, mostly young adults, and injured 150, with pyrotechnics and safety violations identified as key factors.
  • Authorities have detained 16 individuals and inspected 50 entertainment venues, shutting down more than half for licensing and safety violations.
  • The nation is observing a week of mourning, with vigils, memorials, and funeral services uniting communities in grief and solidarity.
  • Protests, led by young people, are demanding accountability and justice, reflecting broader frustrations over systemic failures and economic challenges.
  • International medical aid, coordinated by the EU, has transferred dozens of injured victims to hospitals in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Greece for treatment.