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1h ago

Thousands Rally in Skopje Ahead of Nightclub Fire Trial

Families blame corruption for deadly safety failures, pressing for accountability before the court proceedings.

Families of victims who died in the fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani attend a protest called the "Angels March", in Skopje, North Macedonia, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Valdrin Xhemaj
Families of victims who died in the fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani attend a protest called the "Angels March", in Skopje, North Macedonia, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Valdrin Xhemaj
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A woman reacts as families of victims who died in the fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kocani attend a protest called the "Angels March", in Skopje, North Macedonia, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Valdrin Xhemaj

Overview

  • Saturday’s march drew thousands, including bereaved relatives, who carried photos of the victims and demanded justice in the capital.
  • The March 16 blaze at the Pulse club in Kocani killed 63 people and injured more than 200 after a pyrotechnic flame ignited the roof during a concert.
  • Authorities say the venue had serious safety violations and operated with the wrong license, with many victims reported to be aged 16 to 26.
  • Prosecutors have indicted 34 individuals and representatives of three companies, including the club owner, security staff and former local and national officials, on charges of serious crimes against public security.
  • If convicted, defendants face sentences of up to 10 years, as the case spotlights broader corruption concerns cited by Transparency International and the European Union.