Skopje, 12 December 2025 (MIA) - The gender perspective must be fully integrated within North Macedonia’s European integration process, said Deputy Minister of European Affairs Viktorija Trajkov at a conference Friday in Skopje on gender equality in the EU accession process.

Trajkov said gender equality is not just a European obligation, but a necessity for the creation of a just and inclusive society.

“With today’s conference, we want to highlight the main goal – strengthening our shared efforts for a complete integration of the gender perspective in the EU accession process,” Trajkov stressed in her introductory address at the conference.

The Deputy Minister stressed the government remains firmly committed to promoting gender equality in all areas of society, in line with European standards.

According to Trajkov, gender equality is not just a democratic value, but a prerequisite for economic development, strong communities and a society without stereotypes.

“Gender equality is key for the democratic processes. It accelerates economic development, creates more inclusive and more cohesive communities, it builds a society in which stereotypes are taken down, while young people are encouraged to believe and create an environment of mutual respect, cooperation, and understanding – a society of opportunities. Without economic and social empowerment of women, there can be no true sustainability and prosperity,” Trajkov said.

The Deputy Minister also spoke about the country’s progress on gender equality, highlighting the election of the first female president, which, she said, “breaks the taboos that top state leadership positions are inaccessible to women.”

“The voice of women is being heard increasingly more often, and their great potential must be recognized and accepted. We are aware of our homework – to work hard on progress in the area of gender equality on the path to the EU accession, not only as an obligation, but above all as an expression of our commitment to the creation of a society that will ensure equal rights and opportunities for all,” she added.

The conference which is being held in Skopje on Friday is focused on the role of gender equality as a key element in North Macedonia’s EU accession process. The event brings together institutions, experts, international organizations, and civil society with the aim of assessing the challenges, obligations, and opportunities for the integration of the gender perspective in all stages of the EU accession process.

Photo: MIA