Thousands demonstrate in Skopje before the trial for the fatal nightclub fire

Skopje, the city of North Macedonia, saw thousands of protesters on Saturday over a nightclub fire in March that claimed 63 lives.

In Kocani, a 25,000-person hamlet 50 miles (80 km) east of Skopje, the fire started during a hip-hop event. Victims’ families and supporters, holding photographs and wearing black, demanded justice for the victims.

Authorities in North Macedonia have charged 37 individuals in relation to the incident.

“There is a hope that we will not forget, hope that we will not give up, and hope that we will finally have a proceeding in this country in which everyone, everyone responsible will be held accountable,” Bojan Eftimov, a participant in the demonstration

As flames swept across the roof of the unlicensed venue, dozens were hurt as they rushed to escape through its one exit. Authorities think flare-related sparks ignited it.

It is anticipated that a first trial hearing would start on November 19.