Skopje, 5 December 2024 (MIA) - Corruption remains a top issue for the citizens, but also a main barrier for the access to quality public services, Euro-integration and the country’s development. It must be rooted out for the country to achieve a certain degree of progress, concluded speakers at an event Thursday held in Parliament to mark December 9 – International Anti-Corruption Day.

The Deputy Head of Mission at the European Union’s Delegation in North Macedonia, Ben Nupnau, said the promotion of the rule of law is key to the development and prosperity of the country.

“Corruption continues to be a challenge for North Macedonia, and it deeply impacts the economy. Several Governments have reiterated their commitment to the fight against corruption, however, very little if anything has changed,” Nupnau said in his address at the event, urging concrete steps for change. 

The USAID Country Representative for North Macedonia, Jeri Dible, underscored that the citizens are looking for accountability and that corruption must be rooted out to ensure progress.

“As long as corruption is seen as the most effective way of doing business in this country, the citizens’ interest will remain overshadowed. The independent media is the one that should be looking for accountability from the institutions and to strengthen the voice of the citizens,” Dible said.

The Swiss Ambassador to the country, Véronique Hulmann, said some progress has been achieved over the years, but significant steps remain to be implemented. 

“Corruption is what reduces trust in public institutions, while also undermining democratic values. It has already become a powerful instrument in the hands of those who want to destroy democracy. The fight against corruption, as well as impunity, requires a long-term political commitment, strong leadership and political courage in order to overcome obstacles,” Hulmann said. 

The event was also addressed by the head of the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption (SCPC), Tatjana Dimitrovska, who highlighted the importance of unity in the efforts to build a society in which there is no room for corruption, and whose resources are used to the benefit of all citizens and everyone has equal opportunities for progress.

Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi spoke at the event as well, underlining that corruption remains a great challenge for every society and country.  

Photo: MIA/Screenshot