Skopje, 5 February 2026 (MIA) - The Government has accepted the demand of the Trade Union of Workers in Administration, Judicial Authorities and Citizens' Associations (UPOZ) but not in full. Nevertheless, it is important they accepted the payment of wage benefits for workers in state administration and the judiciary, said UPOZ president Trpe Deanovski after a meeting with Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski on Thursday.

"As we announced last year, they will be paid across several years, in three installments of eight percent each, not ten as we asked. Regretfully, we did not receive them last year, but the Government has accepted to pay them as of this March through signing of individual collective agreements," said Deanovski.

He added that the text of these collective agreements would have to be drafted together with representatives of the Government and UPOZ, followed by their vote for endorsement by the union.

"If union members accept the agreements, they can be signed immediately. If not, the Government will get the answer that a year has already been lost, with workers maybe demanding higher amounts than what is offered now. We will then see whether the Government adds other conditions," said Deanovski.

Today's meeting came after UPOZ said the PM's offer for the wage growth was acceptable and would be discussed within union organizations.

PM Mickoski said yesterday the Government has its own formula for calculation of wages in the administration sector.

"Most of the union representatives have agreed to this Government position, with a few exceptions. The formula includes a gradual increase of their salaries, not just the amount of the minimum wage increase," said Mickoski.

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