Skopje, 5 December 2024 (MIA) – On International Anti-Corruption Day, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi pointed out that the corruption continues to be a major challenge for every society and country. He noted that the fight against corruption must be a collective effort.

“This phenomenon is the common consequence of every collapsed system, a source of problems and an obstacle for progress. Unfortunately, in our country, it has eroded trust in institutions, hindered economic growth, and contributed to the mass emigration of young people. We have a lot of work ahead in this regard,” Gashi said.

Speaker Gashi noted that the fight against corruption must be comprehensive and involve the joint efforts of state institutions, non-governmental organisations and all citizens.

“If corruption is a disease, transparency is the only cure. We are developing new digital systems that will improve accountability. We have created a new register for NGOs, a platform that represents a significant step forward for the formation of inclusive policies. I can assure you that I will support every initiative that prevents corruption,” he added.

He praised the work of the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption and other relevant institutions, emphasizing that the fight against corruption is not only the responsibility of state institutions but also of every individual.

“We need to take concrete steps to raise awareness in the fight against corruption. Only then can we progress toward a prosperous society that upholds the values of transparency and integrity. Indifference benefits corruption,” Gashi urged everyone to take action.

The State Commission for Prevention of Corruption (SCPC), on the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, organised on Thursday an event together with partners from USAID Partnership against Corruption Activity and the Government of Switzerland's Communities with Integrity Project implemented by the National Democratic Institute, with the support of the Parliament of the Republic of North Macedonia.

The event, held at the Parliament of the Republic of North Macedonia, included opening speeches by Gashi, Tatjana Dimitrievska, the President of the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption, and Swiss Ambassador Véronique Hulmann. A panel discussion entitled “Key Activities and Challenges in Building a Corruption-Resistant System/Concluding Observations and Future Recommendations” will also be part of the event.