North Macedonia Nightclub Fire Trial Commences\n\nProceedings have begun in North Macedonia concerning a nightclub fire that resulted in 63 fatalities in March. Thirty-five individuals and three institutions are currently on trial.\n\nIncident Details and Charges\n\nThe fire occurred at Club Pulse in Kocani, an eastern town, during a concert. Pyrotechnic devices reportedly initiated a fire on the club's ceiling. Prosecutors allege that cumulative operational deficiencies contributed to the severity of the incident. Defendants include three former mayors of Kocani, the nightclub owner, and public licensing officials. They face charges of endangering public safety through alleged operation of an unsafe venue.\n\nCourt Proceedings Update\n\nJudge Diana Gruevska-Ilievska initiated the trial, emphasizing a transparent and disciplined process. The estimated duration of the trial ranges from five months to five years. Defense lawyers' requests for a delay, based on the consolidation of charges, were denied by the judge, who stated that no rights of the parties were violated.\n\nConditions During the Fire\n\nAuthorities reported that only one primary exit was functional at the time of the fire, with a rear door reportedly locked. The club's ceiling, constructed from flammable materials, facilitated the rapid spread of the fire. Approximately 500 individuals were present inside the venue. The incident led to 59 immediate deaths and around 200 injuries, with an additional four fatalities confirmed later among the injured. Blocked exits were identified as a factor impeding escape.\n\nPublic Response\n\nSubsequent to the fire, public demonstrations took place in Skopje, the capital, and other areas. Victims' families organized specific marches in Kocani.