The Minister of Justice of North Macedonia, Igor Filkov, highlighted judicial reform as a priority, with clearly defined measures set out through to 2026.
Addressing ambassadors of European Union member states and representatives of the international community, he reaffirmed the Government’s firm commitment to reforming the judiciary.
He stated that North Macedonia's focus would be on measures with a deadline of June 2026, to be pursued intensively with a clear timetable and measurable results.
He also informed attendees that the Ministry of Justice is actively working on amendments to the Electoral Code, aligned with the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR. A working group has already been established, has held several meetings, and has adopted a significant portion of the proposed solutions.
"The process is active, transparent, and aimed at achieving consensus. Consultations with institutions and civil society are ongoing and will continue with increased intensity," the minister emphasised.
Referring to judicial reforms, Filkov noted that the Law on the Judicial Council is already delivering concrete results.
"We have introduced clear criteria, measurable standards, and accountability where these were previously lacking. This proves that reforms are not merely on paper," he said.
The minister stressed that key laws on the public prosecution service, which have received a positive opinion from the Venice Commission, are facing challenges in the parliamentary procedure.
Filkov stated that during the parliamentary process, the opposition chose to block the adoption of the key reform law on the public prosecution service. He added that although most of the opposition’s amendments had been accepted, instead of making a constructive contribution, a decision was taken to stall the country’s European perspective.
He added that responsibility for the European future is shared, while their commitment remains unwavering.
At the same time, the Ministry of Justice continues to work on other systemic solutions:
To ensure the financial preconditions for a functional judiciary, a new Draft Law on the Judicial Budget has been prepared. It envisages the establishment of an independent and stable financing system, as well as strengthening the role of the Judicial Budget Council.
There are also plans to adopt an Action Plan for combating corruption in the judiciary for 2026–2029, as well as to strengthen capacities to fight organised crime through the planned recruitment of financial experts and digital forensic specialists.
Particularly significant is the preparation of a new Criminal Code, currently being aligned with the latest European Union directives, including in the areas of anti-corruption, asset confiscation, and environmental crime. Adjustments are also being made in line with the Draft National Strategy for the Prevention of and Protection against Gender-Based Violence against Women and Domestic Violence for 2026-2033.
In parallel, a new Criminal Procedure Code is being prepared, which will be harmonised with European standards and international practice. Both laws will be submitted to the European Commission for an opinion.
Minister Filkov thanked international partners for their continued support, emphasising that cooperation with the European Union remains key to the successful implementation of the reform agenda.
(EUpravo zato)
