Among the speakers were Ixhet Memeti (Ombudsman and Project Leader, Macedonia), Dr. Gertrude Brinek (Ombudswoman and Project Leader, Austria), Aivo Orav (Head of Delegation of the EU to the FYR of Macedonia), Gabriele Janezic (Consul, Embassy of Austria) and Slavica Dimitrievska (Project Coordinator, Office of the Ombudsman, Macedonia).

Ombudsman Memeti noted that the cooperation with the Austrian Ombudsman Board and the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Human Rights is an important example of how state and civil society institutions work together for the promotion of human rights. He also referred to the importance of cooperation with media representatives defending human rights in Macedonia. Ombudswoman Brinek stressed that a partnership-based approach and cooperation strengthens all the institutions involved and that the sharing of experiences and knowledge will take place not only during the project, but also beyond it. Ambassador Orav noted critically that many residents of Macedonia are still fighting for their fundamental rights and the Office of the Ombudsman occupies an important role trying to change this situation. Consul Janezic called the work of the Austrian Ombudsman Board an example for influencing and improving legislation through collected recommendations. Finally, Slavica Dimitrievska presented an overview of the project’s objectives, expected results and activities.

The event was held in Macedonian and English with simultaneous interpretation into Albanian. Please find the event program and an overview of the project contents attached.