While the state talks about the economy, reforms and a future for the young, the reality on the streets looks completely different. In nearly every town in Macedonia, and in many neighbourhoods literally on every street, casinos, sports betting shops and payday loan companies are popping up. Everything is available within minutes - from roulette and slot machines to online betting and a „loan in five minutes\".

Although it has long been proven that gambling creates a serious psychological addiction, the system allows the aggressive expansion of an industry that profits from other people's misery. Sports betting has already become part of daily life, even for the youngest. Children grow up surrounded by adverts for „easy winnings\", odds, bonuses and online betting apps. Even when minors don't place bets directly, an older person often does it for them - which from an early age creates a dangerous habit and addiction.

Alongside that, payday loans have become the new financial trap for thousands of citizens. The money is easy to take, but the consequences are heavy - debts, interest, pressure and the complete financial collapse of families that were already barely getting by.

The result is catastrophic: destroyed families, broken marriages, debts, depression, and young people who instead of building a future are entering a circle that is hard to leave. Macedonia is slowly becoming a state where addictions spread faster than investment, science and opportunities for a normal life.

The question is simple: will society keep watching calmly as whole generations are pushed toward gambling, debt and addiction, or will a serious debate finally open about the consequences thousands of families across the country are already feeling?

This is no longer just a business. This is an alarm for social catastrophe.

According to figures that have been alarming the public for years, around 700 million euros circulate through supermarkets, while in betting shops and casinos the figure is about 900 million euros.

And here comes the key question: is there a single politician, institution or party that will dare to publicly propose closing or drastically restricting betting shops and casinos, in order to finally rescue the people from an addiction that takes new victims every day?

Because if it continues at this pace, Macedonia risks becoming a country where gambling is stronger than education, work and the future of the young.