Annual National Programme of the Republic of Macedonia for NATO Membership 2013-2014

2013/2014

ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMMEANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME

S, N 2013

2013/2014

Skopje, November 2013

annual national programmeannual national programme

2013-2014 ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA FOR NATO MEMBERSHIP

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Design & Print:

Macedonian Information Centre


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IntroduCtIon ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5

ExECutIvE SuMMary .............................................................................................................................................................................................7

CHAPTER I: POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES ........................................................................................................... 11

FOREIGN POLICY ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11

1.1. nato IntEGratIon oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa ...................................................................................................11

1.2. Eu IntEGratIon oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa .........................................................................................................12

1.3. StrEnGtHEnInG tHE roLE oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa In IntErnatIonaL orGanIZatIonS un, oSCE, CounCIL oF EuroPE .........................................................................................................13

1.4. StrEnGtHEnInG rEGIonaL CooPEratIon and aCtIvE PartICIPatIon In rEGIonaL InItIatIvES ..........14

1.5. advanCEMEnt oF Good-nEIGHBourLy rELatIonS ......................................................................................................14

INTERNAL POLICY ...................................................................................................................................................................................................15

1.6. advanCEMEnt oF PoLItICaL dIaLoGuE By StrEnGtHEnInG tHE roLE oF tHE aSSEMBLy oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa .............................................................................................................................................15

1.7. IMPLEMEntatIon oF tHE oHrId FraMEWorK aGrEEMEnt ........................................................................................15

1.8. advanCEMEnt oF PuBLIC adMInIStratIon rEForMS .................................................................................................16

1.9. advanCEMEnt oF JuStICE SyStEM rEForMS ....................................................................................................................17

1.10. ELECtIon LEGISLatIon ...................................................................................................................................................................18

1.11. PoLICE rEForM PrIorItIES ...........................................................................................................................................................19

1.12. norMatIvE and InStItutIonaL MEaSurES In tHE FIGHt aGaInSt orGanIZEd CrIME and CorruPtIon ..............................................................................................................................................................................20

1.13. MEdIa: FrEEdoM oF ExPrESSIon and ProFESSIonaL StandardS .......................................................................22

1.14. CountErInG nEW SECurIty CHaLLEnGES ...........................................................................................................................23

1.14.1. FIGHt aGaInSt tErrorISM ............................................................................................................................................23

1.14.2. InForMatIon SECurIty ..................................................................................................................................................24

1.14.3. EnErGy SECurIty ................................................................................................................................................................24

1.14.4. EnvIronMEntaL SECurIty ............................................................................................................................................25

1.14.5. ControL and PrEvEntIon oF ProLIFEratIon oF WEaPonS oF MaSS dEStruCtIon .................25

1.14.6. ControL oF SMaLL arMS and LIGHt WEaPonS ...............................................................................................25

ContEntS


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1.14.7. FIGHt aGaInSt traFFICKInG In HuMan BEInGS and ILLEGaL IMMIGratIon ......................................26

1.15. IMProvInG tHE CrISIS ManaGEMEnt SyStEM ...................................................................................................................27

1.16. BudGEt and EConoMy .................................................................................................................................................................27

1.16.1. BudGEt oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa ...........................................................................................................27

1.16.2. MaCro EConoMy ...............................................................................................................................................................27

1.16.3. EConoMIC PrIorItIES CrEatInG a FavouraBLE BuSInESS CLIMatE and ProMotInG CoMPEtItIvEnESS .........................................................................................................................28

1.16.4. tradE LIBEraLIZatIon LIBEraLIZatIon oF MarKEt SErvICES undEr CEFta 2006 .......................29

CHAPTER II: DEFENCE AND MILITARY ISSUES .................................................................................................................312. DEFENCE POLICY AND PLANS ................................................................................................................................................................31

2.1. tranSForMatIon oF tHE arMy oF tHE rEPuBLIC oF MaCEdonIa (arM) ..........................................................31

2.2. HuMan rESourCES ..........................................................................................................................................................................32

2.3. EduCatIon and traInInG ..........................................................................................................................................................32

2.4. ContrIButIon to IntErnatIonaL oPEratIonS .............................................................................................................33

2.5. IntErnatIonaL CooPEratIon ...................................................................................................................................................33

2.6. LoGIStIC SuPPort and InFraStruCturE ..........................................................................................................................33

CHAPTER III: DEFENCE RESOURCES ..............................................................................................................................................353. DEFENCE RESOURCES .................................................................................................................................................................................35

CHAPTER IV: SECURITY ISSUES .........................................................................................................................................................374. SECURITY ISSUES ..........................................................................................................................................................................................37

CHAPTER V: LEGAL ISSUES .................................................................................................................................................................395. LEGAL ISSUES ..................................................................................................................................................................................................39

ANNEXESAnnex 1. BASIC PUBLIC PROSECUTORS OFFICE DATA FOR CONVICTION IN THE FIELD

OF ORGANIzED CRIME FOR THE 1 APRIL 2013 31 JULY 2013 PERIOD .......................................................125

Annex 2. BASIC MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS ........................................................................................................................127


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

this Summary highlights the main activities under the 2013-2014 annual national Programme for nato Membership of the republic of Macedonia and contains the five standard chapters:

POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUESthe strategic foreign policy priorities of the republic of Macedonia are membership of nato and Eu, while special attention is paid to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue. under the Macedonian Chairmanship of the uS-adriatic Charter, Foreign Ministers had a meeting of the Partnership Commission on 18 June 2013, in Skopje, marking the tenth anniversary of the adriatic Charter.

the republic of Macedonia remains committed to furthering friendly and partnership relations with its neighbours (albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Kosovo) based on the principles of mutual trust and respect and on the interest in the Euro-atlantic integration of the regional countries.

the republic of Macedonia is committed to its participation in nato, Eu and un- led missions, and currently contributes to the ISaF Mission in afghanistan (155 troops), the Eu Mission aLtHEa (11 troops) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the unIFIL Mission in Lebanon (1), or contributes with a total number of 167 troops. Furthermore, the country provides logistic support to the KFor operations in Kosovo. the republic of Macedonia has reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to global security through its participation in the post ISaF Mission resolute Support aimed at training, mentoring and providing advice to the afghanistan security forces.

the agreement with the Eu on participation in Eu crises management operations is in force and the country will continue to participate in the aLtHEa Mission and in the Eu Battle Group 2014. the dialogue with the Eu will continue on all relevant foreign, defence and security policies issues.

In the regular annual report about the progress of the republic of Macedonia in the accession to the Eu, issued on 16 october 2013, the EC recommends to the Council of the Eu to adopt a decision for start of accession negotiations, considering that the republic of Macedonia continues to fulfil the relevant political criteria. In light of the fact that accession negotiations have not started yet, the High Level accession dialogue between the Government of the republic of Macedonia and the European Commission, which started in March 2012, provides for a solid framework to maintain the dynamics of reforms required in the Eu accession context.

as a result of the active political dialogue and the political consensus, in September 2013, political parties signed a Memorandum on European Integration.


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In order to further strengthen the engagement within un, the republic of Macedonia has applied for membership of the un Human rights Council, for the 2014-2016 period.

In the domestic political arena, the implementation of the ohrid Framework agreement remains one of the priorities of the Government of the republic of Macedonia, with a focus on equitable representation of all ethnic communities, relevant use of languages, as well as monitoring of the process of implementing the Framework agreement at the local level.

the republic of Macedonia continues to implement activities foreseen in the 2010-2015 Strategy for Public administration reforms. the Government has adopted a revised reform action Plan. In this context, a Law on administration has been drafted that contains provisions that improve the system of public administration. the key prerogative is that changes provide mobility of employees in the public sector.

Justice system reforms remain high on the agenda of the Government of the republic of Macedonia, with a focus on strengthening the independence and efficiency of the judiciary, introduction of new regulation defining disciplinary responsibility, introduction of objective and measurable criteria in establishing malfeasance and negligent behaviour by judges, increasing transparency, new assessment system and merit based promotion of judges. In the 2013-2015 period, the republic of Macedonia will continue implementing activities to introduce information technology that will facilitate more efficient work the judiciary.

one of the key priorities is fight against organized crime and corruption. Special attention is paid to the implementation of the new Law on Criminal Procedure that will enter in force on 1 december 2013, which foresees transfer of competences for all pre-trial investigations to the Public Prosecutors office. the amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption are aimed at providing systematic and institutional protection of persons willing to file a case against corruption. Furthermore, the State Commission will also deal with cases under the Law on Prevention of Conflict of Interest.

In the context of police reforms, activities are undertaken for implementation of the 2013-2015 Strategic Plan of the Ministry of the Interior, especially for attaining priorities in the fight against corruption and organized crime, strengthening the trust of citizens in the police, improving public security and advancing the administrative capacities to fight transborder crime and corruption and terrorism.

In the first half of 2013, the State Election Commission organized regular local elections, using a voters List the up-dating of which was supported by all political parties, and noted by the oSCE/odIHr. In the 2013-2014 period, the activities of the State Election Commission will be directed towards preparation, organization and later assessment of the regular presidential elections, foreseen to take place in March 2014. according to the Electoral Code, the Speaker of the assembly of the republic of Macedonia is expected to adopt a decision announcing the presidential elections at the end of 2013 or at the beginning of 2014.

the proper regulation of the media and audio visual media services has become a necessity and after consultations with the oSCE and the Council of Europe, activities have been undertaken to establish, i.e. improve the appropriate legal framework on the freedom of expression and work of media that would be in accordance with international standards. Eu directive 13/2010/EC has been transposed in the draft Law on audio and audiovisual Media Services.

Economic growth, competitiveness, high level of employment, improved living standard of citizens will remain to be the major priorities of the Government.

DEFENCE AND SECURITY POLICYIn accordance with the national Security Strategy, activities will be centred on the countrys further efforts under nato peace operations, then on creation of deployable military capacities and on regional defence cooperation.


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In order to ensure continued development of the military capacities, the 2014-2023 Long term development Plan of the army of the republic of Macedonia, which, inter alia, envisages modernization of the army, has been amended and is expected to be adopted by the Government by the end of 2013. this document defines the vision for defence development in the forthcoming 10 year period, setting forth as well the priorities, the defence budget in support of the modernization, and establishing directions for long term capacity development.

the republic of Macedonia remains committed to the efforts of the international community in countering emerging security challenges, such as fight against terrorism, cybercrime, maintaining energy stability, environmental protection, WMd control, reduction and non-proliferation, illegal migration.

the republic of Macedonia appreciates the support by the nato Liaison office in Skopje, and by the Embassy of the republic of turkey, which is natos contact point Embassy.

DEFENCE RESOURCESthe transformation of the army is to be realized through a steady increase of the defence budget, then by applying new modalities of regional cooperation, as well as by implementing the smart defence concept and with direct support, i.e. donations by interested countries.

the global economic crisis affected the budget of the Ministry of defence, especially the army modernization activities. Hence, most activities have been postponed for the forthcoming period.

the 2013 defence budget is about Eur 96 million or 1.20% of the GdP distributed as follows: 67.83% for personnel, 23.11% for operation and maintenance and 9.06% for equipment and infrastructure. the 2014 draft budget is about Eur 99 million.

SECURITY ISSUES the directorate for Security of Classified Information, as the national security authority, continually implements nato and Eu standards in this area.

LEGAL ISSUES the national legislation of the republic of Macedonia does not pose obstacles for nato membership.


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CHaPtEr I POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

FOREIGN POLICYthe strategic foreign policy priorities of the republic of Macedonia are membership of nato and Eu, while special attention is paid to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue, regional and global peace and security.

the republic of Macedonia actively contributes to the activities of international organizations with respect to all issues of common interest.

1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIAFully-fledged membership of nato and Eu is one of the strategic priorities of the Government of the republic of Macedonia. the country also attaches priority to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue, economic growth, advancement of the business climate and improving conditions for investments, higher employment rate, and improving the living standard of citizens.

the countrys participation in international nato, Eu and un-led peace operations reaffirms that the republic of Macedonia is a responsible partner of the alliance and of the international community. this has been proven with the participation of the republic of Macedonia in the ISaF Mission in afghanistan (155 troops), the Eu Mission aLtHEa (11 troops) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the unIFIL Mission in Lebanon (1) and with the logistic support provided to KFor operations in Kosovo, all of which amounts to 167 troops, or 3% of the total personnel.

according to the projections, the same level of participation will be maintained next year as well. the country will continue providing logistic support to the KFor operations, under the Host nation Support Coordination Centre. In december 2012, the republic of Macedonia reaffirmed its commitment to further contributing to the post ISaF Mission, in line with the alliance needs and the countrys possibilities.

In the context of strengthening the security defence component of the Eu Battle Group 2014, which is under Kingdom of Belgium leadership, the countrys declared forces should be fully ready for deployment in the second half of 2014.

the country also participates in activities of the international community for fight against terrorism, WMd prevention and non-proliferation, cyber security and other emerging security threats.

the republic of Macedonia appreciates the support by the nato Liaison office in Skopje, and by the Embassy of the republic of turkey, which is natos contact point Embassy.


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there are preparations underway for the third phase of the Project for reconstruction of bridges and roads in the country, expected to be finalized by the end of 2014.

under the Macedonian Chairmanship of the uS-adriatic Charter, Foreign Ministers held a meeting of the Partnership Commission on 18 June 2013, in Skopje, marking the tenth anniversary of the Charter.

activities are undertaken to strengthen capacities for selection and training of civilian personnel for participation in nato-led operations, particularly operations for stabilization and reconstruction in post conflict conditions, in line with the Partnership goal PC G3781.

In pursuance with unSCr 1325, the gender equality principle has been mainstreamed in the defence and security policy of the republic of Macedonia and this has been reflected in the Gender Equality Strategy and accompanying national action Plan.

of the 150 troops deployed in international operations in the 2002-2012 period, 5% were women. the military and civilian personnel of the amy and of the Ministry of defence attend gender sensitizing and gender mainstreaming trainings, as well as gender advisor training in training centres of Partnership countries.

1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

the republic of Macedonia and the European union have developed deep and intensive cooperation founded on the strategic goal of the republic of Macedonia for its integration into the European union. taking into consideration the achievements of the republic of Macedonia, the European Commission gave a recommendation for opening accession negotiations in october 2009, which was renewed in 2010, 2011 and in 2012. the last Progress report of the European Commission (16 october 2013) once again reiterated the recommendation for start of accession negotiations with the republic of Macedonia. the Commission considered that the start of the accession negotiations would have a positive impact to the reform process, that it would strengthen the inter-ethnic relations and would create a positive climate for a mutually acceptable solution to the name issue. the European Commission also stated that the further delay of the start of accession negotiations would call into question the credibility of the enlargement process of the European union. In the Spring report of april 2013, the Commission confirmed that the republic of Macedonia continued to fulfil the Copenhagen criteria for start of accession negotiations, and that it undertook steps for improvement of the relations with neighbouring countries.

In the absence of accession negotiations, the High Level accession dialogue (HLad) between the Government and the EC, which started in March 2012, continued to maintain the pace of the Eu related reforms. the key achievements are: decriminalization of defamation and offence, first comprehensive review of the implementation of the ohrid Framework agreement, improvement of the efficiency of the judiciary, public administration reforms, reforms of the electoral process and progress in strengthening market economy.

the key immediate priority of Macedonia remains the start of accession negotiations without further delay. the Government will continue the reforms and meeting the standards for Eu accession, while actively promoting good-neighbourly relations and regional cooperation. Furthermore, the republic of Macedonia will continue to fully comply with obligations under the Stabilization and association agreement, which in april 2014 will meet the established 10-year implementation time frame.

the republic of Macedonia is a beneficiary country of the Eu pre-accession assistance IPa (2007-2013). the Eu will finalize the design of financial aid IPa 2 (2014-2020). the main goal is to support the countrys efforts in meeting the accession criteria and readiness to undertake the obligations arising from Eu


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membership. In this context, the Government will continue to strengthen the institutional capacity for effective use of the assistance, as well as the internal coordination mechanisms, while ensuring a high degree of ownership and management of Eu funds.

the republic of Macedonia continues to progressively harmonize with and participate in the Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European union and continues to align itself with the joint declarations, statements and positions of the European union. the Foreign Security and defence Policy, in continuity, are among the best assessed chapters under the Commission reports. (Preparations are well advanced).

the agreement with the Eu on Macedonias participation in Eu crisis management operations has been signed and entered into force. Macedonia continues to participate in the operation EuFor aLtHEa in Bosnia and Herzegovina with 11 troops, and contributes to the Eu Battle Group 2014 Eu BG. the dialogue with the Eu on current issues under Eus foreign, security and defence policies will continue, at different levels and in various formats.

Macedonia aligns with all autonomous Eu restrictive measures against third countries, entities and individuals. the Coordination Body monitoring the implementation of international restrictive measures will continue its coordination activities aiming at attaining efficiency in implementing the measures.

1.3. STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIzATIONS UN, OSCE, COUNCIL OF EUROPE

the republic of Macedonia considers that multilateralism is one of the key instruments for promotion of the fundamental values of peace, democracy, human rights and development. In this context, the main goal is to enhance the activities of the republic of Macedonia within the un, by promoting policies based on the fundamental values of this organization. the republic of Macedonia is focused on increasing its participation in un peace operations, as well as on enhancing its capacities to provide humanitarian and development assistance.

the republic of Macedonia will focus on the following priority issues on the agenda of the 68th un General assembly: strengthening the role of the un in conflict prevention, in preserving and strengthening peace; un reform; implementation of the Millennium development Goals; disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation; strengthening the role of the International Criminal Court; fight against terrorism; climate change; respect for and protection of human rights and strengthening the role of the Human rights Council; promoting the role and participation of women; the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, and strengthening the role of youth. the republic of Macedonia will continue to fulfil its reporting obligations in the human rights area, as well as in the area of arms control and disarmament.

the republic of Macedonia expects to be elected a member of the Human rights Council for the 2014-2016 period. Elections will be held on 12 november, 2013, in new york.

the republic of Macedonia will also work to strengthen its position within the oSCE, promoting itself as a country that consistently implements the commitments under the political-military, economic and human dimensions of this organization, being also actively involved in on-going debates for oSCE reform. the country will further pursue its commitment to enhanced participation of Macedonian representatives in oSCE field missions, as well as in oSCE/odIHr election monitoring missions.

In the period from September to december 2012, the republic of Macedonia chaired the oSCE Forum for Security Cooperation. In addition to regular topics on the agenda of the Forum, the Macedonian Chairmanship focused on the regional dimension of security issues.


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the cooperation with the oSCE Mission in the republic of Macedonia will continue with the purpose of completing joint projects and with a view to downsizing the Mission in line with the realistic needs, while focusing on the jointly set priorities and the progress in the process of Eu integration.

Implementing and promoting the Council of Europe principles and standards, and strengthening the cooperation with expert monitoring bodies of the Council of Europe, remain the countrys priorities in the coming period. Macedonia attaches great importance to the continuation of the reform of the European Court of Human rights.

1.4. STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES

In pursuance with commitments to building relations of good-neighbourliness, security, stability and cooperation in Southeast Europe, the republic of Macedonia is continually and actively involved in activities under the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), the regional Cooperation Council (rCC), the Central European Initiative (CEI), and the regional SELEC Centre in Bucharest.

the republic of Macedonia chaired the Southeast European Cooperation Process in the period from June 2012 to June 2013. the Macedonian Chairmanship was aimed at strengthening and accelerating the cooperation under this initiative. Choosing the motto Solidarity in action, the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship pursued its political commitments to deepening regional cooperation, which was endorsed in the political declaration the SEECP Ministers of Foreign affair adopted (in ohrid, on 31 May 2013), by which the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship was completed.

the republic of Macedonia is also actively involved in the MarrI regional Centre in Skopje, participating in activities dealing with asylum, migrations and refugees. In the SELEC context, the cooperation continues at the level of Ministries of the Interior/police forces and customs administrations with a view to preventing all forms of cross-border crime.

1.5. ADVANCEMENT OF GOOD-NEIGHBOURLY RELATIONS

the republic of Macedonia is strongly committed to friendship, open partnership relations and comprehensive cooperation with countries in its immediate neighbourhood (albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Kosovo and Serbia), pursuing in this respect the principle of mutual trust and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all countries in the region and the interest in fully-fledged Euro-atlantic integration of the regional countries.

aiming at intensifying political contacts and deepening the cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, upon the initiative of the republic of Macedonia, on 3 June 2013, in Belgrade, there was the first joint session of the Governments of the republic of Macedonia and of the republic of Serbia, while on 28 July 2013, in Kustendil, there was a working meeting between the Governments of the republic of Macedonia and of the republic of Bulgaria.

It should be underlined that despite the world economic and financial crisis, there has been an increase in the economic cooperation with countries in the immediate neighbourhood, in which respect new markets and forms of cooperation have been found. the focus in this respect is on attaining infrastructure and energy interconnectivity among regional countries.

the shared commitments in this respect have resulted in the opening of a new border crossing between the republic of Macedonia and the republic of albania. the Joint Contact Centre for Police Cooperation between Macedonia and albania started its work, as well. In June 2013, the Ministers of the Interior of


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the republic of Macedonia and of the republic of Kosovo signed the agreement on the opening of a new border crossing for international road transportation between the two countries.

the republic of Macedonia continually raises initiatives for intensification of the political dialogue and contacts with the Hellenic republic, as well as for intensification of the un brokered process for finding a mutually acceptable solution to the name issue in accordance with international law and un SC resolution 817. the republic of Macedonia remains consistently committed to advancing good-neighbourly relations, strengthening mutual trust and respect and to deepening the cooperation with the Hellenic republic, in all areas of mutual interest.

INTERNAL POLICY

1.6. ADVANCEMENT OF POLITICAL DIALOGUE BY STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

the assembly of the republic of Macedonia is strongly and continually committed to active political dialogue of all political groups having representatives at the assembly, both on current issues, and on the major national strategic goals, such as the countrys integration into the Eu and nato, which is supported by a nation-wide consensus.

as it is known, the Speaker of the assembly of the republic of Macedonia convenes regular coordination meetings with deputy Speakers and Coordinators of Political Groups at the assembly.

as thus far, the assembly will focus its activities on strengthening the legislative, supervisory and representative functions of the assembly, then on further advancement of the political dialogue, on development of the e-Parliament capacities, improving the transparency in its work, being focused as well on enhancing the assembly financial autonomy, developing the research capacities of the assembly and on continual professional advancement of the assembly services.

1.7. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OHRID FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT the Secretariat for the Implementation of the ohrid Framework agreement, in cooperation with other relevant institutions, prepared a ten-year report on the degree of implementation of the ohrid Framework agreement. the report covers all relevant areas: equitable representation of all ethnic communities, use of languages, decentralization, integrated education and non-discrimination.

In the 2012-2013 period, there were three job advertisements for employment of persons belonging to non-majority communities in the republic of Macedonia. 382 people were recruited. the Government adopted the 2013 Program for employment of persons belonging to communities, which is the basic plan of the Secretariat to enhance equitable representation in public administration. the Program envisages 450 new jobs, which will be announced in 2013 periodically for all groups of civil servants.

according to the Program, in 2013, one job advertisement was published for recruitment of 258 persons belonging to minority communities and the recruitment procedure has been completed. 192 job openings remain to be filled in 2013.

the cooperation with the oSCE mission on training of newly recruited civil continues. thus, there have been trainings organized for newly recruited civil servants on issues related to equitable representation and public administration reforms.

the Secretariat signed an agreement on a project funded by the uK Government for training of 120 translators that work in state administration bodies, as well as for building a system for education of


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future translators in the country. the first phase of the Project was completed with an analysis of existing capacities and based on the analysis results there will be a program of training courses prepared for professional advancement.

1.8. ADVANCEMENT OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REFORMSthere are activities underway for implementation of activities under the 2010-2015 Public administration reform Strategy. the Government has also adopted a revised action Plan, accompanying the Public administration reform Strategy.

With a view to advancing the legislative framework for public administration employees, a Law on administration is drafted, envisaging novelties that are to improve the countrys administration system.

In 2013, amendments were adopted on three occasions to laws on civil servants and employees in the public sector. the key benefit of these amendments is enhanced mobility of public sector employees.

Following the adoption of the Strategy for drafting a new Law on General administrative Procedure, a working group was established, which started drafting the text of the new Law in the second quarter of the year. the activities for drafting the Law are under way. the new Law is aimed at enhancing citizens rights in administrative procedures and at facilitating fulfilment of obligations towards state institutions.

the Law on Ex-officio Collection and Exchange of Evidence and data was adopted in mid 2013. this Law regulates the procedure for ex-officio evidence and data collection and exchange between the central and local government bodies.

at the beginning of 2013, the Quality Barometer methodology was adopted, aimed at establishing a system for uniform standard measurement of the quality of work of institutions. the first pilot stage pursued in 2013 includes 9 institutions. the Law Introducing Quality Management System and Common assessment of the Work and Service delivery by the Civil Service was adopted in the first half of 2013.

under the Interoperability Project, procedures have been designed that regulate electronic data exchange, as well as applying for new services, service upgrade and termination, as well as mutual agreements between institutions.

the Electronic Learning System or the learning management system is now implemented, which is aimed at providing a relevant learning platform accessible to all civil servants anytime and anywhere.

the procedure for establishment of an Electronic Human resource Management System in the admin-istration is underway.

there is a system under which natural persons can electronically file their tax returns.

the E-reminder project is now implemented. this is an automated electronic system notifying citizens about deadlines to service their obligations for certain administrative services.

In 2011, the Inter-Ministerial Working Group, set up by the Ministry of transport and Communications, started preparing a new Law on Media and audiovisual Media Services. taking into account the importance of legal regulation of media, it is of crucial importance to ensure complete transparency and inclusiveness in the process of drafting of this Law.

the European union provided taIEx technical support in drafting this Law, through organization of several taIEx missions, workshops and public hearings.

the legal framework was discussed at a number of open public hearings, and it was posted at the website of the Single national regulation registry (www.ener.gov.mk) enabling relevant stakeholders to give their comments.


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after consultations with all stakeholders, and after receiving new comments from the Council of Europe and the oSCE, it was concluded that it was necessary to regulate the area of media and of audiovisual media services by adoption of two laws: the Law on Media and the Law on audio and audiovisual Media Services.

By the end of July, the two draft Laws were submitted to the assembly of the republic of Macedonia. the assembly Committees considered the two draft Laws and decided to accept them and forward them for further consideration and for second reading at the assembly. In the period from 20 to 23 august 2013, the relevant Committees of the assembly of the republic of Macedonia had amendment debates in respect of the two draft Laws.

the draft Law on Media envisages the basic principles and conditions that are to be met by media publishers (broadcasters, printed media publishers or electronic publication producers) for performing their activities.

the draft Law on Media has been completely harmonized with the documents and standards of the Council of Europe and of the oSCE in terms of ensuring freedom of expression and freedom of the media.

the draft Law on audio and audiovisual Media Services has provisions regulating the rights, duties and responsibilities of broadcasters, providers of audiovisual media services on demand, public electronic communication services that transmit or re-transmit broadcasters programs.

the draft Law on audio and audiovisual Media Services has completely incorporated the 2010/13/Eu directive for audiovisual media services.

1.9. ADVANCEMENT OF JUSTICE SYSTEM REFORMSaiming at further strengthening the independence and increasing the efficiency of the judiciary, there are activities underway for implementation of laws adopted in the area of the judiciary.

In the context the above referred to activities, there is basic training organized for the fifth generation of candidates for judges and public prosecutors at the academy for training of Judges and Public Prosecutors. Furthermore, the basic training will be particularly focused on the Eu acquis and international standards. In addition, the training will especially take into consideration the practical aspects and specialization of candidates for judges and public prosecutors even at this early stage of the training.

the academy for training of Judges and Public Prosecutors will further pursue the continual training for judges and public prosecutors, especially for implementation of international standards, continuously organizing as well trainings on specialized topics in the area of civil procedure, commercial law, bankruptcy law etc.

In the context of independence of the judiciary, activities will be aimed at implementation of legal provisions relating to the career merit based system for promotion of judges, then application of new provisions for disciplinary responsibility and for establishing malfeasance in the work of judges by introducing objective and measurable criteria, increasing transparency in the work of courts and implementing the new system of assessment of judges using objective quantitative and qualitative criteria.

Particular attention will be paid to the implementation of the new Law on Criminal Procedure (which will be applied as of 1 december 2013). this Law introduces a completely new system of criminal procedure, and fully rearranges the method of conducting investigations, the competences for which now are now transferred from the existing investigative judges to public prosecutors; in addition new institutes have been introduced-justice police and investigative centres at Public Prosecutors offices, the method of conducting the main hearing is redefined as well as the system of legal remedies.


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the Law regulates rights and obligations of the Public Prosecutor that has a completely new role in the procedure and new positioning before courts, as well as in relation to the justice police and the other bodies with investigative competences. the competences of public prosecutors and their leading role in detection and prosecution of crimes are regulated in detail. the greatest novelties in the pre-trial procedure introduced with this Law are the newly defined relations between the public prosecutor and the police, the establishment of justice police and investigative centres at the Public Prosecutors offices.

the Law on Civil Law Liability for defamation and offence and the Law amending the Criminal Code were adopted in december 2012, with the aim of strengthening the media freedom. the above mentioned laws introduced decriminalization of defamation and offence, as well as decriminalization of most of criminal offences against the honour and reputation. thus, liability for offence and defamation is considered under a civil law procedure. It is particularly important to emphasize that the Law on Civil Liability for defamation and offence incorporates the standards prescribed in article 10 of the European Human rights and standards set under the case law of the European Human rights Court. Furthermore, the Law contains a provision, which prescribes that the above mentioned standards take precedence over domestic provisions. the academy for training of Judges and Public Prosecutors continually organizes obligatory training about principles of the European Human rights Convention. Furthermore, the academy has introduced the practice of making records of the implementation of the Law on Civil Liability for defamation and offence by judges, in conjunction with article 10 of the European Human rights Convention.

as regards statistics on work of courts, priority is attached to the implementation of the adopted Methodology on Court Statistics. In this regard, a software application has been designed which enables collection, processing and analysis of statistics about work of courts. this system will particularly contribute to improving the planning of work of courts and it will help measure the efficiency of work of courts, based on the eleven indicators defined under the above referred to Methodology on Court Statistics.

Future activities for improving the efficiency of the judiciary involve projects for electronic delivery of writs and audio recording of court hearings. Furthermore, there will be activities focusing on the work of enforcement officers and notaries public, following their taking over old enforceable and final judgements from courts. In areas of expert witnesses and damage appraisals, activities are aimed at enhancing the quality of expert witness work and appraisals, by advancing professional competences of expert witnesses and appraisers. In this context, activities are continually implemented for organizing exams for expert witnesses and appraisers, as well as for issuance of relevant licenses and establishing the required registers.

activities for implementation of information technology in the judiciary will continue in the period from 2013 to 2015. the process of introducing information technology will also cover the public prosecutors offices, which is planned to ultimately result in linking the It systems of courts and public prosecutors offices.

1.10. ELECTION LEGISLATION

In the first half of 2013, the State Election Commission organized regular local elections. Local elections were conducted with a consolidated voters List in which according to the Electoral Code only citizens who possess valid biometric personal identification cards and passports were entered. the voters List was consolidated in pursuance with oSCE/odIHr recommendations following the early parliamentary elections in 2011 for revision of the voters List, i.e. removing deceased people and people residing in other countries from the voters List. the revision of the voters List was supported by political parties and this was noted in the oSCE/odIHr Final report about the local elections.


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In line with envisaged post-election activities, after the local elections, the State Election Commission prepared and adopted a report about the 2013 Local Elections and submitted it to the assembly of republic of Macedonia. Furthermore, in cooperation with the oSCE Mission in Skopje, after the elections, the State Election Commission organized four regional workshops for the municipality election commissions to analyze the conducted local elections. the workshop topics were identification of good practices and challenges, promotion of positive aspects of the organization of the elections and proposing solutions in the area where deficiencies were established.

the State Election Commission this year will implement the following activities which are to contribute to a more efficient updating of the voters List:

development and implementation of methodology for examination of the voters List which can be used for regular checks of the voters List accuracy; and

analysis of the system for exchange of information between institutions which provide data for the voters List, with a view to the voters List improvement.

these activities will be implemented by the Working Group on the voters List, which is chaired by the State Election Commission, in cooperation with and support from the oSCE Mission in Skopje.

Furthermore, the activities of the State Election Commission in the 2013-2014 period will be focused on preparation, organization, and evaluation of the regular presidential elections in March 2014. In accordance with the Electoral Code, the Speaker of the assembly of republic of Macedonia is expected to adopt a decision announcing the presidential elections at the end of 2013 or at the beginning of 2014.

1.11. POLICE REFORM PRIORITIES

the preparation of the 2014- 2016 Strategic Plan enabled the Ministry of the Interior (MoI) to design adequate policies and programs that ensure most efficient use of resources for attainment of priorities and goals, thus improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the implementation of the MoI polices, as well as the evaluation and transparency of spending the limited budgetary funds (the Strategic Plan is expected to be adopted at the beginning of october 2013).

the police reform process will be completed by fulfilling obligations under the amendments to the Law on Criminal Procedure; designing a contemporary model of police organization; introduction of new methods of work of the police; strengthening the principle of rule of law; enhancing the protection of and respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms; strengthening the material-technical and staff capacities.

the trust of all communities in the police is enhanced by pursuance of the following activities: developing partnership relations between citizens and the police, and application of the community policing principle; designing a transparent public relations system; finalization of equitable representation of all communities in the police; strengthening police capacities for work with persons with special needs (children, women, victims of domestic violence).

Public security and administrative capacities for fight against cross-border crime and corruption are advanced through efficient and effective prevention of all types of crime; reduction of the crime rate by defining short-term and mid-term deadlines; increased efficiency in preventing and detecting of criminal activities; enhanced personal safety of citizens and security of property; efficient and effective maintenance of the public peace and order; improved road traffic safety and reduction of the traffic accidents rate and alleviation of ensuing consequences; strengthened control of the state border and preventing illegal migration; improvement of the general health and psycho-physical fitness of police officers; standardization of the equipment used by the police for performance of police duties.


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the efficiency in the fight against terrorism and in protecting the national security is improved by pursuing contemporary sophisticated measures and activities for detecting the organizers, the perpetration and logistics of terrorist activities; established efficient exchange of information about terrorist groups and their support networks.

1.12. NORMATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL MEASURES IN THE FIGHT AGAINST ORGANIzED CRIME AND CORRUPTION

one of the key goals of the Government of the republic of Macedonia is repressing organized crime and corruption. For this purpose, activities in the period from 2013 to 2015 will be focused on the application and implementation of new institutes established under the criminal legislation, primarily institutes of extended confiscation, confiscation of direct and indirect property gains, confiscation of third persons property, and illicit enrichment, and there will be training for all entities in the system for fight against corruption. Furthermore, particular attention will be given to the application of the new Law on Criminal Procedure (which will be applied as of 1 december 2013), under which one of the key novelties is the transfer of investigation competences from courts to public prosecutors offices.

the amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption, which are now drafted, will help strengthen protection of persons reporting cases of corruption, and will help better regulate the issue of integrity, by strengthening the capacities of institutions for repressing corruption, in accordance with international standards.

the Inter-ministerial body for coordination of the activities against corruption continues to convene regular meetings. as part of its activities this Inter-ministerial body monitors: the work of the Working Group tasked with the preparation of a Statistical methodology for monitoring the anticorruption policy, then the implementation of the State Programme for prevention and repression of corruption and prevention and reducing conflict of interest by the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption, as well as the implementation of the Council of Europe GrECo recommendations. Hence, with a view to implementing the remaining recommendations under the III round of evaluation relating to the issue of incriminations, the Law amending the Criminal Code was adopted on 26 december 2012, which abrogates the possibility to return the bribe to the bribe giver, while regarding recommendations relating to transparency in financing of political parties, the Law amending the Electoral Code was adopted on 13 november 2012, and the Law amending the Law on Financing of Political Parties was adopted on 13 november 2012.

Four stages of the draft Statistical Methodology have been prepared and adopted by the Government of the republic of Macedonia. the single methodology helps set up a relevant statistical system for monitoring cases of corruption their processing by involved institutions, starting from their detection to their final resolving. this system also helps monitor the implementation of the anticorruption policy, i.e. strategies, projects, reforms etc. under this system data will be centralized at the national level.

the continual cooperation with GrECo continues. all activities aimed at implementation of the remaining recommendations under the III round of evaluation have been undertaken, and it is expected that the successful implementation of the recommendations will be taken note of in the II Compliance report under the III round of evaluation of the republic of Macedonia, expected to be adopted in november 2013. the report under the Iv round of evaluation is envisaged to be adopted by GrECo in december 2013.

In the context of the Program for Strengthening of the Capacities of the Centre for Suppression of organized and Serious Forms of Crime it is envisaged to pursue measures and activities aimed at prevention and detection of offences and perpetrators of organized crime. the aims of the Program are efficient and effective countering corruption and organized crime, as well as enhancing the


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professionalism and modernization of the Centre for Suppression of organized and Serious Forms of Crime.

the activities require a high level of specialization for performance of specific and complex tasks against corruption and organized crime in an efficient and cost effective manner.

the Program envisages activities for the establishment of a national Intelligence database, preparation of legislation and by-laws, implementation of the Law on Criminal Procedure, establishment of database for criminal investigations of serious and organized crime, establishment of a database for the Criminal Intelligence department, formation of organizational units tasked with implementing the criminal intelligence process (intelligence managers and local intelligence officers), implementation of the action Plan of the national Commission against trafficking in Human Beings and Migrant Smuggling, implementation of the action Plan for the adopted national Strategy on the Fight against Corruption, Money Laundering, Cybercrime and Forgeries, preparation of a database for counterfeit money, implementation of the action Plan for the national Strategy for Fight against trafficking in drugs, Small and Light Weapons.

the Program also envisages activities that are aimed at strengthening the overall capacities for fight against organized forms of crime and at ensuring preconditions for objective long term maintenance of these capacities.

as an important part of the state administration, the Skopje Basic Public Prosecutors office for Prosecution of organized Crime and Corruption continues undertaking activities aimed at fighting organized crime and corruption in the country.

the Public Prosecutors office is preparing for application of the new Law on Criminal Procedure. In addition, the systematization of jobs at the Basic Public Prosecutors office for Prosecution of organized Crime and Corruption has been expanded. under the rulebook amending the rulebook on organization and Systematization of Jobs at Public Prosecutors offices, 16 administrative staff will be employed.

In the context of international cooperation, the Basic Public Prosecutors office for Prosecution of organized Crime and Corruption actively implements the Second additional Protocol to the European Convention on Mutual assistance in Criminal Matters and regularly directly communicates and cooperates with prosecution authorities of the neighbouring countries and of European union Member-States for purposes of collecting evidence, facilitating international legal assistance procedures and conducting joint and coordinated investigations with relevant authorities.

In addition to competences for fight against corruption, defined by law, the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption (SCPC) also has the competence of preparing and adopting State Programmes for Prevention and repression of Corruption and Conflict of Interest, as well as competences for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of measures and activities set forth under the action Plan. In order to establish a sustainable and complementary system for prevention and repression of corruption and conflict of interest, the 2011 2015 State Programmes define 11 sectors in which risks and problems with corruption and conflict of interests are most evident, identifying as well activities and measures to overcome problems and risks in each sector. the Programs also identify indicators for monitoring the implementation of activities, agencies and institutions responsible for the implementation of certain activities, time-bound priorities, and indicators to measure the impact to undertaken activities. the SCPC evaluates activities twice a year and informs relevant institutions about its findings.

In addition to the responsibility for enforcement of the Law for the Prevention ofCorruption, the SCPS is also responsible for implementation of the Law for the Prevention of Conflict of Interest.1 this Law was

1 the implementation of the Law for the Prevention of Conflict of Interest has demonstrated that it is necessary to establish mechanisms for keeping records of and monitor the conflict of interest of officials. thus, in 2009, the obligation for filing a declaration of conflict


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adopted in 2007 and its amendments were adopted in 2009 and in 2012, respectively. these amendments expand the competences of the SCPC. thus, in line with the regulation on examining the contents of the declarations of interest, in 2012, the SCPC started checking the contents of the declarations.2

this systematic examination of the declarations of interests enables more efficient relevant reaction by the SCPC in case of violation of the Law.

the examining the declarations of interests has resulted in institution of proceedings against officials for violation of the Law on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest, as well as in institution of misdemeanour proceedings before competent courts against officials that have not filed declarations of interest.

In addition to these activities, the SCPC pursues its regular activities for processing cases, as well as activities for receiving, making records of and publishing information relating to declarations of assets of elected and appointed officials, while organizing trainings for countering corruption, conflict of interest and on the issue of integrity, and developing specific projects for prevention of corruption and conflict of interest.

1.13. MEDIA: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDSthe Broadcasting Council of the republic of Macedonia, as the competent independent regulatory body in the broadcasting area, works to ensure freedom of expression in broadcasting and diversity of programs offered and to protect media ownership pluralism. In this context, the Broadcasting Council oversees the consistent implementation of the Law on Broadcasting, having in mind that the independence of media is achieved through proper regulation of the market and through implementation of relevant laws.

Freedom of expression and protection of pluralism are covered by several legislative provisions starting with regulating the ownership structure (article 11) over to provisions that regulate issues of establishing unlawful media concentration, changes in the broadcasters ownership structure, media outlets obligation for transparency of ownership and sources of funding (articles 12 to 30 of the Law on Broadcasting), and finally provisions on the principles on which radio and television programs are to be based (article 68).

the Council regularly monitors the compliance of program contents with the program principles and supervises the proper implementation of legal provisions on media ownership and media concentration.3

of interest was prescribed. this obligation applies to all elected and appointed officials, civil servants and other employees in state institutions, judiciary, local government and other public institutions.

2 Elected and appointed officials submit their declarations with the SCPC, while civil servants file their declarations with the institution where they are employed. these amendments have not resolved the issue of examining the content of declaration, which was noted as a deficiency. therefore, relevant amendments to the Law were adopted in 2012. only declarations of conflict of interest submitted to the SCPC are examined regularly. this applies to all newly submitted statements, while the content of declarations submitted before the amendments to the Law are examined annually in accordance with the envisaged plan and dynamic of activities.

3 the results of the fifth consecutive analysis covering the period from 1 January to 30 June 2013 are as follows:a In the first half of 2013, 11 broadcasters changed their ownership structure, all of which possessing local broadcasting licenses.

three of them were radio stations and the other eight were television stations. a total of ten broadcasters changed their ownership structure in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Broadcasting and only one broadcaster changed the ownership structure without filing a prior request for approval by the Broadcasting Council, for which the broadcaster was sanctioned with a written reprimand.

a In 2013, unlawful media concentration has been established in a total of three broadcasters: one satellite television, one radio station with national coverage and one local radio station. the satellite television has settled the problem of unlawful media concentration, by aligning its operations with provisions of the Law on Broadcasting. the deadline for compliance of the two radio stations with relevant legal provisions expired in august 2013.

a there is high degree of fulfilment of obligations by broadcasters for transparency of ownership and sources of funding. a total of 132 broadcasters, including all television and radio stations with national and regional coverage, published the required data.


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Having in mind the need for undertaking activities for promotion of media pluralism in the country and for advancement of a non-discriminatory and transparent media access, the Broadcasting Council adopted a Manual on the establishment of market conditions for sustainable economic growth in the media industry and fair competition and a Manual for assessing media pluralism (internal media pluralism).

1.14. COUNTERING NEW SECURITY CHALLENGES 1.14.1. Fight AgAinst terrorism

In the coming period, the republic of Macedonia will continue to actively participate in the fight against terrorism with all its available capacities. In this respect, relevant institutions will continue to consistently undertake planned and coordinated security and intelligence measures and activities to deal with international terrorism threats and the ever growing radicalism.

the directorate for Security and Counterintelligence makes efforts to raise its operational capabilities and respond to all threats to the security of the republic of Macedonia, especially the threat of terrorism, by continually analysing and upgrading its professional structure and by strengthening its structural capacities.

With a view to providing a relevant response to new security challenges and to improving the quality of work of the directorate for Security and Counterintelligence, the directorate has a new organizational structure, which aims to facilitate enhanced coordination of activities and to strengthen efficiency of its organizational units. In this regard, several specialized trainings for employees of the directorate have been organized on issues relating to the performance of competences of this body.

there are ongoing activities for implementation of the national Strategy of the republic of Macedonia on Countering terrorism, in which respect an Inter-Ministerial working group has been established composed of representatives of all relevant state authorities, tasked with the design of an action Plan to implement measures and activities envisaged in the Strategy.

By adopting this strategic document, the republic of Macedonia supports the fundamental goals and principles set out in major counterterrorism documents adopted by the un, the Eu and nato, and aligns itself with the Eu Common Security and defence Policy, i.e. it supports the four pillars of the fight against terrorism by all European countries that are envisaged in Eu Counter-terrorism Strategy.

the national Strategy also takes into account contemporary risks and threats to the national security arising from terrorism, the countrys surrounding environment and from other circumstances that threaten or may affect the countrys security, peaceful and smooth functioning of the democratic system institutions and the countrys capabilities to deal with terrorist and threats of all types.

In accordance with its legal obligations, the directorate for Security and Counterintelligence will continue to regularly submit its annual reports and work programs to the in-line Committee at the assembly of the republic of Macedonia.

one of the strategic objectives in the coming period will be to strengthen the on-going cooperation at the regional and international level with intelligence and security services of other countries, including nato and other international institutions. It is also planned to continue developing mechanisms for exchange of intelligence information between security and intelligence services with a view to monitoring, detecting, analyzing and disrupting threats of terrorism.

three local radio stations partially fulfilled this obligation, while six local broadcasters did not published any data (two televisions and four radio stations).


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1.14.2. inFormAtion seCUritY

the republic of Macedonia continues to upgrade its capacities for fight against cybercrime, in line with the Law on Criminal Procedure and the Criminal Code, as well as in pursuance with provisions of the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime.

the established contact point for cybercrime is fully operational 24/7 for the purpose of prompt collection of electronic evidence, exchanging information and conducting joint investigations with other Signatory States to the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime.

there is an initiative underway for the adoption of a national Cyber Security Strategy, which envisages activities in four areas: developing the concept of cyber security, anti-cybercrime measures and activities, establishing a cyber attack prevention system and managing cyber incidents. the Strategy is expected to facilitate institutional cooperation, and prevention of and dealing with cyber security incidents.

Initial feasibility studies have been prepared on the establishment of a national Cybercrime research Centre, which could be transformed into a regional centre in the future. the national Centre would link the relevant anti-cybercrime capacities in the private sector, the industry, universities and agencies responsible for enforcing the relevant laws in the republic of Macedonia.

1.14.3. energY seCUritY

the assembly of the republic of Macedonia has adopted the Law amending the Law on Energy in order to harmonize this Law with the Law on Concessions and Public Private Partnership and in order to more precisely regulate the issue of energy efficiency. In accordance with the amendments to the Law on Energy, the Minister of Economy has adopted a rulebook on Energy Features of Buildings and a rulebook on Energy Control.

there are activities underway for further liberalization of the electricity market in the republic of Macedonia.

the Government of republic of Macedonia has adopted a Program for implementation of the 2013 2017 Energy development Strategy.

the construction of the hydro-electric power plant Boskov Most is expected to start to the end of 2013. It will have installed capacity of 68 MW, while the total investment will be about Eur 107 million. Bids for construction works and for equipment are now considered.

until august 2013, 16 small hydro power plants were constructed, while to the end of 2013 and in 2014 another 14 small hydro power plants will be constructed.

Considering the need for development of the natural gas distribution network in the republic of Macedonia, in april 2013, the Ministry of transport and Communications published a public procurement bid for a Feasibility Study for development of the natural gas distribution network in the republic of Macedonia. the selected company undertook the obligation that the Feasibility Study would be finished until april 2014.

In July 2013, the Government of republic of Macedonia and the Government of the russian Federation signed an agreement on the inclusion of the republic of Macedonia in the South Stream pipeline. the project for construction of a South Stream pipeline branch (which will be coming from the territory of Serbia) in republic of Macedonia is of strategic interest to the country in terms of providing long-term energy stability.


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1.14.4. environmentAl seCUritY

the republic of Macedonia is actively involved in protection and advancement of the environment, by implementing its national Strategies, Programmes and Plans aimed at attaining Eu standards for quality of the environment, nature and sustainable development.

the legal framework allows for integration of the environmental policy into other sector policies; provision of information about the environment, nature and various areas and access thereto; public participation in decision-making about the environment; and active following and implementation of international policies, standards and systems for the environment, nature, areas and SIS, thus increasing the public awareness and public education about rights and obligations with regard to the environment, nature and area protection; institutional and administrative capacity building for environmental and nature protection and spatial planning; increase of the volume of environmental investments and promotion of international cooperation.

the republic of Macedonia has pursued important activities related to environmental security through continual implementation of the national Strategy for Sustainable development and national Strategy for Waters. the III national Communication on Climate Change adaptation, accompanied with an action Plan, has been completed. these documents are expected to be endorsed by the Government of the republic of Macedonia to the end of 2013.

1.14.5. Control AnD Prevention oF ProliFerAtion oF WeAPons oF mAss DestrUCtion

the republic of Macedonia remains active in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. the country participates in the work of the regional Centre of Excellence for Southeast Europe, South Caucasus, Moldova and ukraine, which is pursued in cooperation with the European Commission and the un research Institute for Inter-regional Crime and Justice - unICrI. the initiative aims to reduce risks and prevent threats from chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear (CBrn) materials and devices.

the national CBrn Coordination Body was established in June 2012, tasked with strengthening the national system for prevention, risk reduction and protection against chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear weapons and materials, as well as with better coordination of activities and processes in this field. this body will develop an action Program for the implementation of resolution 1540 of the un Security Council.

In december 2010, the republic of Macedonia started activities for membership of the Wassenaar arrangement, and the beginning of 2011 sent a letter to the President Plenum in order to accelerate the process of accession of the republic of Macedonia in the Wassenaar arrangement, while asking for inclusion of the republic of Macedonia in the program of the Wa outreach Group as an intermediary stage before full membership. In the coming period, the Government is expected to adopt a formal decision to seek membership in the Wassenaar arrangement.

1.14.6. Control oF smAll Arms AnD light WeAPons

the national Commission for Small arms and Light Weapons continually pursues its primary activities in accordance with the national Strategy for Small arms and Light Weapons and the action Plan.

In coordination with the competent services at the Ministry of the Interior, the national Commission for Small arms and Light Weapons has started implementing the amendments and supplements to the Law on Weapons. these new amendments and supplements to the Law on Weapons are aimed at increasing the security and safety of citizens.


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In the 2013 2014 period, it is planned to connect legal persons authorized for trade in arms and weapons on the territory of the republic of Macedonia in a single system within the Ministry of the Interior in order to increase the control of the trade in arms and weapons. the system comprises tracing of arms and weapons, ammunition and parts of weapons from their entry in the republic of Macedonia to the final user. this will upgrade the existing electronic system for records keeping of issued weapon permits to legal and natural persons.

In cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and other state bodies, the national Commission for Small arms and Light Weapons also works on the prevention and elimination of proliferation of illegal weapons and on control of legally possessed weapons in accordance with the national legislation.

representatives of regional units of the Ministry of the Interior have been actively involved in the establishment and work of local prevention councils. during meetings with advisory groups of citizens at local self-government units, citizens will be informed about the dangerous consequences arising from the use of weapons. these preventive concepts are intended to improve the efficiency and cooperation between the police and citizens in the fight against and prevention of violence perpetrated with use of weapons.

Pursuing its regular activities for destruction of found, seized, confiscated and obsolete arms and weapons, taken over from first instance courts on the territory of the republic of Macedonia, following court judgements adopted after completed criminal or misdemeanour proceedings, and aiming at reducing the quantity of arms and weapons, in 2013, 265 pieces of different types of arms and weapons were destroyed by smelting.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign affairs, the national Commission plans to further strengthen the coordination with the nato /SaLW advisory Committee on exchange of experiences and information in the area of control and destruction of small arms and light weapons.

1.14.7. Fight AgAinst trAFFiCKing in hUmAn Beings AnD illegAl migrAtion

the new 2013 2016 national Strategy and national action Plan on Fight against trafficking in Human Beings and Illegal Migration (tHB and IM) offer a precisely defined approach to reducing the vulnerability of risk groups and potential victims of tHB, as well as appropriate mechanisms for overcoming problems, and a solid approach to rights of victims and their appropriate and efficient protection.

In accordance with the national action Plan, the priority activities of the national Commission for Fight against tHB and IM in the 2013-2014 period will be focused on the prevention of tHB, as one of the key aspects in the suppression of this chain of organized crime in society.

the national Commission coordinates regular activities relating to: harmonization of the national legislative framework with the international legislative framework regarding tHB and Smuggling of Migrants; regional meetings and study visits for exchange of good practices, while organizing regular meetings and pursuing cooperation with national coordinators, and providing better quality information for pupils (elementary school children) and students (secondary schools) about threats of tHB.

Furthermore, the national Commission implements activities for raising the awareness of vulnerable groups, organizes preventive activities at the local level and maintains an SoS telephone line for information and assistance to the vulnerable groups / potential victims of tHB. Special attention is paid to the creation of mobile teams at the local level for identification of, assistance and support to potential victims and risk groups.

In order to successfully participate in international investigations, the Ministry of the Interior regularly communicates with the SELEC Centre in Bucharest, Europol and Interpol.


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the Ministry of the Interior exchanges information and data with Southeast European countries regarding the fight against tHB, for purposes of efficient criminal prosecution of perpetrators of tHB, in line with concluded Memorandums of understanding.

1.15. IMPROVING THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMthe development of the Crisis Management Centre is aimed at building the Crisis Management System of republic of Macedonia, with relevant capacities and capabilities, based of high professionalism, commitment and readiness of individuals and entities, in order to ensure optimal conditions for safe living and working environment for citizens, and conditions for economic and social prosperity of the state.

the legally defined mandate of the Crisis Management Centre envisages ensuring regular communication, consultations, and data exchange between and among relevant entities; operational readiness and interoperability of entities that are part of the system; coordinated management and overcoming of consequences of events and large scale phenomena. In this regard, in accordance with their competences the Crisis Management Centre and the Protection and rescue directorate have defined concrete activities and responsibilities in dealing with nation wide disasters and other hazards, which also includes inter-ministerial communication and coordination.

the Crisis Management Centre has presented its concrete program activities and strategic goals, in accordance with the Strategic Plan of the Centre for the 2013-2015 period, which will contribute to implementation of policies for disaster risk reduction in republic of Macedonia.

the implementation of activities in pursuance with priority goals is expected to strengthen the overall capacities of the Centre and of Crisis Management System, in order to achieve efficient protection of the well-being of the citizens, assets, natural, cultural goods and the countrys security in general.

1.16. BUDGET AND ECONOMY 1.16.1. BUDget oF the rePUBliC oF mACeDoniA

the 2014 fiscal policy is aimed at maintaining the macroeconomic stability and fiscal sustainability, as well as at supporting the growth of the Macedonian economy. Such defined fiscal policy goals require further strict control over public finances, as well as continuous improvement of the quality of public expenditures through increased volume of capital investments.

the total revenues in the draft 2014 Budget are projected at the level of Eur 2,573 million (an increase of 6.9% compared to 2013), thereby maintaining low and unchanged tax rates.

the total expenditures in the draft 2014 Budget are projected in the amount of Eur 2,870 million (an increase of 6.5% compared to 2013), with a tendency for continuous improvement of their structure through increase of capital expenditures by 20% compared to the previous year.

Such projected revenues and expenditures will result in a budget deficit of 3.5% of the GdP. Financial resources for the projected deficit will be provided from foreign sources (favourable credits from international financial institutions, World Bank Policy-Based Guarantees and credit lines for financing specific projects), as well as from domestic sources (issuance of government securities).

1.16.2. mACro eConomY

the main macroeconomic scenario for the 2014-2016 period is based on expectations for low economic growth rates in the Eu, but also on expectations for a more stable external surrounding during the


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analyzed period, realization of expected foreign direct investments, development of the economic infrastructure in the country and structural reforms, which contribute to enhanced competitiveness of the country.

In the 2014-2016 period, the growth of economic activity in the republic of Macedonia is expected to be 3.8% in average, with prospects for certain growth intensification. thus, the economic growth in 2014 is expected to be 3, 2%, 3.8% in 2015 and 4.5% in 2016.

the envisaged economic growth in the 2014-2016 period is expected to have positive effects on the labour market trends. according to the projections, 2.8% average annual increase of the number of employees is expected. In turn, this will result in a decline of the number of unemployed persons by 2.4% in average in the analyzed period.

In the 2014-2016 period, the inflation rate is expected to be both low and stable. the inflation rate will be influenced by the trends in global prices of primary commodities. the inflation rate in 2014 is expected to be 3.3%, with prospects for slowdown of the price increase in the coming period. thus, the inflation rate in 2015 is expected to be 2.7%, and 2.5% in 2016.

the expected volume of foreign direct investments and projections for a moderate BoP current account deficit are factors that will result in a stable external position and keeping foreign currency reserves at an adequate level. a stable denar exchange rate in relation to the euro will be maintained in the coming period as well, as a nominal anchor aimed at maintaining price stability, as the ultimate goal of the macroeconomic policy.

1.16.3. eConomiC Priorities CreAting A FAvoUrABle BUsiness ClimAte AnD Promoting ComPetitiveness

one of the key strategic priorities of the Government of the republic of Macedonia for 2014 remains increasing the economic growth and competitiveness in the long run, higher employment rate, increase of the living standard and quality of life, which will be accomplished through attainment of several priority targets.

the activities aimed at improving the business climate will continue, focused on further implementation of regulatory reforms (regulatory Guillotine and evaluation of the impact of regulations - regulatory Impact assessment - rIa), then on simplification of procedures for doing business, removing barriers, and establishing a one-stop shop system for domestic and foreign investors. other relevant activities will be further development of the dialogue with the business community, through increased activities of the national Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Council; implementing projects in direct communication with companies; implementation of the project Learning from the business community by visits to companies by government teams in order to learn their ideas and initiatives and to pursue other forms of communication and dialogue with chambers, associations and on individual basis. Since the launching of the project Learning from the business community in the period from 2012 until now, more than 500 companies have been visited.

Encouraging competitiveness as a basis for sustainable economic growth will continue with further implementation of several strategic documents, action plans, programs and measures, aimed at developing small and medium enterprises, encouraging and promoting investments, and implementation of industrial policy, development of clusters, export promotion and increased support to innovations. the republic of Macedonia focuses on supporting innovations as one of the main drivers of a competitive economy, through creation of an adequate environment for d

Annual National Programme of the Republic of Macedonia for NATO Membership 2013-2014

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Transcript of Annual National Programme of the Republic of Macedonia for NATO Membership 2013-2014