The US State Department latest global report on freedom rights, notes corruption, rule of law issues and media freedom interference as Macedonia's main problems, largely basing the claims on the 2015 wiretapping scandal, that is detailed in the study.
"In February the opposition Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) party released intercepted communications that allegedly revealed inappropriate behavior and misuse of office by the executive branch. Authorities subsequently arrested five defendants in connection with the wiretapping scandal. Intercepted communications released by the opposition SDSM party in February allegedly revealed inappropriate influence over the judiciary by the executive branch. Multiple recorded conversations depicted executive branch representatives influencing the judicial appointment process. On April 30, authorities indicted opposition leader Zoran Zaev and charged him with 'attempted violence against highest state officials' (attempting to overthrow the government) in connection with the wiretapping case. Zaev called the charge politically motivated. In July he stopped complying with a provision of his pretrial release that required him to check in with the court once a week, stating that he did not recognize the authority of the court. In December the Special Prosecutor filed a motion with the court to assume jurisdiction over the case", the report notes.
Regarding freedom of expression, the State Department's report claims that authorities continue to exert pressure on media outlets, with complaints received from the Association of Journalists of Macedonia and other media representatives.
According to the report, mainstream media rarely criticize the Government, which, it is believed, is using its clout as one of the largest media advertisers.
The report also notes that "several journalists reported threats and intimidation directed against them, including allegedly by government officials".
In relation to protection of refugees, the State Department's report notes that Macedonia was faced with a dramatic and unprecedented wave of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants, with an estimated 650,000 people crossing through the country only in the second part of 2015.
The report cites claims by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch of their alleged mistreatment on the part of the police, particularly in the Reception Center for Foreigners in Skopje.