In the period from February to May 2024, the project “EU Support for Rule of Law” in North Macedonia, supported and funded by the Directorate-General for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR), achieved important milestones.

In the area of anti-corruption, a series of lectures organised jointly with the Slovenian Embassy and the Association of Slovenian and Macedonian Entrepreneurs is particularly noteworthy. Renowned experts shared their expertise in the fight against money laundering and the development of anti-corruption measures with representatives of the Macedonian business community. However, anti-corruption measures were not only discussed on a theoretical but also on a practical level. A joint event was organised with representatives of the Slovenian police, who shared both best practices and innovative strategies. The importance of cross-border cooperation was emphasised in particular.

The focus was also on improving disciplinary proceedings against public prosecutors. Possibilities were discussed for holding misconduct accountable without jeopardising the independence of public prosecutors. The need for an independent body to monitor the necessary and transparent measures was emphasised.

A particular highlight was the first Human Rights Forum, which established a new tradition. The aim of this forum is to promote a participatory process to improve the human rights protection system in North Macedonia. During the past project quarter, other events were organised to address the situation and rights of street children as well as the various forms of discrimination faced by Roma women and girls.