| MACEDONIA Republic of Macedonia Republika Makedonija (The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) Joined United Nations: 8 April 1993 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 04/06/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Skopje
2,066,718 (July 2009 est.)
Gjorge Ivanov
President since 12 May 2009
President since 12 May 2009
President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible
for a second term); two-round election: first round held 22
March 2009, second round to be held 5 April 2009
Next scheduled election: March 2014
for a second term); two-round election: first round held 22
March 2009, second round to be held 5 April 2009
Next scheduled election: March 2014
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Nikola Grievski
Prime Minister since 28 August 2006
Prime Minister since 28 August 2006
Prime Minister elected by the Assembly following legislative
elections; elections: last held 1 June and 15 June 2008
Next scheduled election: July 2012
elections; elections: last held 1 June and 15 June 2008
Next scheduled election: July 2012
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Macedonian 64.2%, Albanian 25.2%, Turkish 3.9%, Roma 2.7%, Serb 1.8%, other 2.2% (2002 census)
| RELIGIONS |
Macedonian Orthodox 64.7%, other Christian 0.37%, Muslim 33.3%, other and unspecified 1.63% (2002 census)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Parliamentary Democracy comprised of 85 municipalities (opstini, singular - opstina); Legal system is based on civil
law system; with judicial review of legislative acts
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); two-round election: first
round held 22 March 2009, second round to be held 5 April 2009 (next to be held in March 2014); prime minister elected
by the Assembly following legislative elections
Legislative: unicameral Assembly or Sobranie (120 seats - members elected by popular vote from party lists based
on the percentage of the overall vote the parties gain in each of six electoral districts; all serve four-year terms);
elections: last held 1 June and 15 June 2008 (next to be held by July 2012)
Judicial: Supreme Court - the Assembly appoints the judges; Constitutional Court - the Assembly appoints the
judges; Republican Judicial Council - the Assembly appoints the judges
law system; with judicial review of legislative acts
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); two-round election: first
round held 22 March 2009, second round to be held 5 April 2009 (next to be held in March 2014); prime minister elected
by the Assembly following legislative elections
Legislative: unicameral Assembly or Sobranie (120 seats - members elected by popular vote from party lists based
on the percentage of the overall vote the parties gain in each of six electoral districts; all serve four-year terms);
elections: last held 1 June and 15 June 2008 (next to be held by July 2012)
Judicial: Supreme Court - the Assembly appoints the judges; Constitutional Court - the Assembly appoints the
judges; Republican Judicial Council - the Assembly appoints the judges
| LANGUAGES |
Macedonian 66.5%, Albanian 25.1%, Turkish 3.5%, Roma 1.9%, Serbian 1.2%, other 1.8% (2002 census)
| BRIEF HISTORY |
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Having a small, open economy makes Macedonia vulnerable to economic developments in Europe and dependent
on regional integration and progress toward EU membership for continued economic growth. At independence in
September 1991, Macedonia was the least developed of the Yugoslav republics, producing a mere 5% of the total
federal output of goods and services. The collapse of Yugoslavia ended transfer payments from the central
government and eliminated advantages from inclusion in a de facto free trade area. An absence of infrastructure, UN
sanctions on the downsized Yugoslavia, and a Greek economic embargo over a dispute about the country's
constitutional name and flag hindered economic growth until 1996. GDP subsequently rose each year through 2000.
In 2001, during a civil conflict, the economy shrank 4.5% because of decreased trade, intermittent border closures,
increased deficit spending on security needs, and investor uncertainty. Growth averaged 4% per year during
2003-06 and more than 5% per year during 2007-08. Macedonia has maintained macroeconomic stability with low
inflation, but it has so far lagged the region in attracting foreign investment and creating jobs, despite making extensive
fiscal and business sector reforms. Official unemployment remains high at 35%, but may be overstated based on the
existence of an extensive gray market, estimated to be more than 20% of GDP, that is not captured by official
statistics. In the wake of the global economic downturn, Macedonia has experienced decreased foreign direct
investment, lowered credit, and a large trade deficit, but the financial system remained sound. Macroeconomic
stability was maintained by a prudent monetary policy, which kept the domestic currency at the pegged level against
the euro, at the expense of raising interest rates. As a result, GDP fell in 2009.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Macedonia)
on regional integration and progress toward EU membership for continued economic growth. At independence in
September 1991, Macedonia was the least developed of the Yugoslav republics, producing a mere 5% of the total
federal output of goods and services. The collapse of Yugoslavia ended transfer payments from the central
government and eliminated advantages from inclusion in a de facto free trade area. An absence of infrastructure, UN
sanctions on the downsized Yugoslavia, and a Greek economic embargo over a dispute about the country's
constitutional name and flag hindered economic growth until 1996. GDP subsequently rose each year through 2000.
In 2001, during a civil conflict, the economy shrank 4.5% because of decreased trade, intermittent border closures,
increased deficit spending on security needs, and investor uncertainty. Growth averaged 4% per year during
2003-06 and more than 5% per year during 2007-08. Macedonia has maintained macroeconomic stability with low
inflation, but it has so far lagged the region in attracting foreign investment and creating jobs, despite making extensive
fiscal and business sector reforms. Official unemployment remains high at 35%, but may be overstated based on the
existence of an extensive gray market, estimated to be more than 20% of GDP, that is not captured by official
statistics. In the wake of the global economic downturn, Macedonia has experienced decreased foreign direct
investment, lowered credit, and a large trade deficit, but the financial system remained sound. Macroeconomic
stability was maintained by a prudent monetary policy, which kept the domestic currency at the pegged level against
the euro, at the expense of raising interest rates. As a result, GDP fell in 2009.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Macedonia)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
The country enjoyed relative political stability in the early years of transition with the same coalition government, led
by the Socialist Party (SDSM), staying in power from 1992 to 1998. A coalition Government led by the
centre-of-right VMRO-DPMNE party took office in December 1998 and had undergone a series of reshuffles until
the creation of the government of National Unity in April 2001 as a consequence of the political and military crisis in
the country. Since March 2001 this relative political stability has been shattered by the deterioration of the
inter-ethnic situation with ethnic Albanian extremists fighting the Macedonian security forces. Corruption in the public
service is a thorny issue which mars the credibility of the political and administrative institutions. The politicisation of
the administration, through appointment based on party affiliation, continues to pose a major constraint on the
development of a modern professional civil service. Reports of human rights violations have been generally limited
but have increased in the aftermath of the political crisis of March 2001. Reports of police brutality towards ethnic
Albanians are a cause of major concern.
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by the Socialist Party (SDSM), staying in power from 1992 to 1998. A coalition Government led by the
centre-of-right VMRO-DPMNE party took office in December 1998 and had undergone a series of reshuffles until
the creation of the government of National Unity in April 2001 as a consequence of the political and military crisis in
the country. Since March 2001 this relative political stability has been shattered by the deterioration of the
inter-ethnic situation with ethnic Albanian extremists fighting the Macedonian security forces. Corruption in the public
service is a thorny issue which mars the credibility of the political and administrative institutions. The politicisation of
the administration, through appointment based on party affiliation, continues to pose a major constraint on the
development of a modern professional civil service. Reports of human rights violations have been generally limited
but have increased in the aftermath of the political crisis of March 2001. Reports of police brutality towards ethnic
Albanians are a cause of major concern.
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| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Kosovo and Macedonia completed demarcation of their boundary in September 2008; Greece continues to reject
the use of the name Macedonia or Republic of Macedonia
the use of the name Macedonia or Republic of Macedonia
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
IDPs: fewer than 1,000 (ethnic conflict in 2001) (2007)
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Major transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and hashish; minor transit point for South American cocaine
destined for Europe; although not a financial center and most criminal activity is thought to be domestic, money
laundering is a problem due to a mostly cash-based economy and weak enforcement
destined for Europe; although not a financial center and most criminal activity is thought to be domestic, money
laundering is a problem due to a mostly cash-based economy and weak enforcement
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Macedonia
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Republic of Macedonia is a parliamentary democracy with a population of approximately 2.1 million. The president, who is
popularly elected, is head of state and commander in chief of the armed forces. A unicameral parliament (Sobranie) exercises
legislative authority. On March 22 and April 5, the country held presidential and municipal elections (with additional rounds in some
municipalities on April 19 and May 3), and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) assessed them as
meeting most international standards for democratic elections. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the
security forces.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Republic of Macedonia is a parliamentary democracy with a population of approximately 2.1 million. The president, who is
popularly elected, is head of state and commander in chief of the armed forces. A unicameral parliament (Sobranie) exercises
legislative authority. On March 22 and April 5, the country held presidential and municipal elections (with additional rounds in some
municipalities on April 19 and May 3), and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) assessed them as
meeting most international standards for democratic elections. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the
security forces.
- There were reports that law enforcement officers and prison officials beat detainees and prisoners and that authorities did
not adequately investigate or prosecute allegations of abuse. - Prisons were overcrowded and conditions were reported to be inhuman and degrading; observers reported widespread
corruption among prison staff. - Implementation of judicial reforms continued to be delayed, and political pressure and intimidation hindered the effectiveness
of the judiciary. - A dispute over government support for an Orthodox church in the main square in Skopje contributed to interethnic tensions
and raised questions about government involvement in religious affairs. - Lack of effective police protection for protestors raised concerns about freedom of assembly.
- There were reports of discrimination against persons with disabilities and Roma.
- Tensions between the ethnic Macedonian and ethnic Albanian populations continued to impact areas including education,
employment, and political participation.
28 December 2009
HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Thirteenth session
Agenda item 3
Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to
development
Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Asma Jahangir
Addendum
Mission to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*
Summary
The present report contains the findings and recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief on her
mission to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, from 26 to 29 April 2009. The Special Rapporteur gives an overview of the
international human rights standards, domestic legal framework on freedom of religion or belief and religious demography in the
former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Subsequently, she highlights issues of concern for her mandate with regard to religious
instruction in primary schools, religious symbols, places of worship, incitement to religious hatred and the application of the 2007
Law on the Legal Status of a Church, a Religious Community and a Religious Group.
The Special Rapporteur concludes that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is a multi-ethnic, multicultural and multi-
religious society. She welcomes the regular interfaith meetings held at the domestic level as well as the Government’s initiative in
organizing the 2007 World Conference on Dialogue among Religions and Civilizations. However, some issues of concern remain to
be addressed and the recent domestic debate on contentious issues, such as religious instruction in primary schools, shows the risk
that these issues may be used to divide and polarize the different communities. The Special Rapporteur reminds those religious
leaders and politicians who publicly voiced their outrage of the judgement of the Constitutional Court of 15 April 2009 concerning
religious instruction in public schools that an independent judiciary was crucial to safeguard freedom of religion or belief and,
ultimately, as a foundation for democratic governance. To foster a climate of religious tolerance, political and religious leaders
should take a human rights based approach and clearly affirm the importance of the right to freedom of religion or belief in all its
dimensions. In addition to legislation, States have several tools at their disposal to counter religious intolerance, for example by
giving space for dialogue, encouraging public figures to make statements denouncing acts of intolerance and providing quality
education. The Special Rapporteur stresses that the rule of law and the functioning of democratic institutions are prerequisites for
the effectiveness of these strategies, which seek to encourage real dialogue and understanding.
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HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Thirteenth session
Agenda item 3
Promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to
development
Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Asma Jahangir
Addendum
Mission to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*
Summary
The present report contains the findings and recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief on her
mission to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, from 26 to 29 April 2009. The Special Rapporteur gives an overview of the
international human rights standards, domestic legal framework on freedom of religion or belief and religious demography in the
former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Subsequently, she highlights issues of concern for her mandate with regard to religious
instruction in primary schools, religious symbols, places of worship, incitement to religious hatred and the application of the 2007
Law on the Legal Status of a Church, a Religious Community and a Religious Group.
The Special Rapporteur concludes that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is a multi-ethnic, multicultural and multi-
religious society. She welcomes the regular interfaith meetings held at the domestic level as well as the Government’s initiative in
organizing the 2007 World Conference on Dialogue among Religions and Civilizations. However, some issues of concern remain to
be addressed and the recent domestic debate on contentious issues, such as religious instruction in primary schools, shows the risk
that these issues may be used to divide and polarize the different communities. The Special Rapporteur reminds those religious
leaders and politicians who publicly voiced their outrage of the judgement of the Constitutional Court of 15 April 2009 concerning
religious instruction in public schools that an independent judiciary was crucial to safeguard freedom of religion or belief and,
ultimately, as a foundation for democratic governance. To foster a climate of religious tolerance, political and religious leaders
should take a human rights based approach and clearly affirm the importance of the right to freedom of religion or belief in all its
dimensions. In addition to legislation, States have several tools at their disposal to counter religious intolerance, for example by
giving space for dialogue, encouraging public figures to make statements denouncing acts of intolerance and providing quality
education. The Special Rapporteur stresses that the rule of law and the functioning of democratic institutions are prerequisites for
the effectiveness of these strategies, which seek to encourage real dialogue and understanding.
Click here to read more »
FREEDOM IN THE WORLD REPORT 2009
Political Rights Score: 3
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Partly Free
Trend Arrow
Macedonia received a downward trend arrow due to increased harassment of and violence against political party members
during the country’s June parliamentary elections, which domestic and international observers deemed the worst since
independence.
Overview
Macedonia’s June 2008 parliamentary elections were accompanied by violence and fraud, drawing criticism from poll monitors.
Also during the year, ethnic Albanian and opposition parties mounted intermittent boycotts of the parliament. In April, Greece
vetoed Macedonia’s proposed NATO membership due to a long-standing dispute over the country’s name. That issue, together
with the ongoing internal political conflicts, continued to stymie Macedonia’s European Union accession prospects.
Following Macedonia’s failed bid to join the NATO alliance in April 2008, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski called early elections for
June 2008, arguing that the opposition was blocking reforms and damaging the country’s chances of joining NATO and the EU.
The elections were widely seen as the worst since independence. International watchdog groups cited a range of irregularities—
mainly in Albanian areas—including attacks on party campaign offices, failure to guarantee equal access to the media, ballot-box
stuffing, and an atmosphere of violence both during the campaign and on election day. In many cases, police officers were
allegedly involved in these irregularities, and 28 were suspended pending investigation. Results at 197 polling sites, or about 10
percent of all votes cast, had to be annulled. After reruns were held in the affected municipalities, the final results gave the ruling
VMRO-DPMNE and its smaller allies 63 out of 120 seats in the parliament. The opposition SDSM and its junior partners took only
27 seats. The DUI, which won 18 seats, confirmed its position as the leading Albanian party, while the rival DPA garnered 11.
Gruevski brought the DUI into his new government, leaving the DPA in opposition.
The early elections were prompted in part by Greece’s decision, at a NATO summit in April, to block an invitation for Macedonia
to join the alliance. Macedonia’s broader European integration efforts have been hampered by its strained interethnic relations and
weak administrative capacity, in addition to the ongoing name dispute. However, the country has made some progress in improving
the local business climate by streamlining procedures for property registration, starting up a business, and obtaining credit.
Under pressure from ethnic Albanian politicians, Macedonia recognized the independence of neighboring Kosovo in October 2008,
although opinion polls showed that a majority of Macedonian Slavs opposed the move.
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Political Rights Score: 3
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Partly Free
Trend Arrow
Macedonia received a downward trend arrow due to increased harassment of and violence against political party members
during the country’s June parliamentary elections, which domestic and international observers deemed the worst since
independence.
Overview
Macedonia’s June 2008 parliamentary elections were accompanied by violence and fraud, drawing criticism from poll monitors.
Also during the year, ethnic Albanian and opposition parties mounted intermittent boycotts of the parliament. In April, Greece
vetoed Macedonia’s proposed NATO membership due to a long-standing dispute over the country’s name. That issue, together
with the ongoing internal political conflicts, continued to stymie Macedonia’s European Union accession prospects.
Following Macedonia’s failed bid to join the NATO alliance in April 2008, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski called early elections for
June 2008, arguing that the opposition was blocking reforms and damaging the country’s chances of joining NATO and the EU.
The elections were widely seen as the worst since independence. International watchdog groups cited a range of irregularities—
mainly in Albanian areas—including attacks on party campaign offices, failure to guarantee equal access to the media, ballot-box
stuffing, and an atmosphere of violence both during the campaign and on election day. In many cases, police officers were
allegedly involved in these irregularities, and 28 were suspended pending investigation. Results at 197 polling sites, or about 10
percent of all votes cast, had to be annulled. After reruns were held in the affected municipalities, the final results gave the ruling
VMRO-DPMNE and its smaller allies 63 out of 120 seats in the parliament. The opposition SDSM and its junior partners took only
27 seats. The DUI, which won 18 seats, confirmed its position as the leading Albanian party, while the rival DPA garnered 11.
Gruevski brought the DUI into his new government, leaving the DPA in opposition.
The early elections were prompted in part by Greece’s decision, at a NATO summit in April, to block an invitation for Macedonia
to join the alliance. Macedonia’s broader European integration efforts have been hampered by its strained interethnic relations and
weak administrative capacity, in addition to the ongoing name dispute. However, the country has made some progress in improving
the local business climate by streamlining procedures for property registration, starting up a business, and obtaining credit.
Under pressure from ethnic Albanian politicians, Macedonia recognized the independence of neighboring Kosovo in October 2008,
although opinion polls showed that a majority of Macedonian Slavs opposed the move.
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Macedonia must guarantee the right to freedom of peaceful assembly
13 November 2009
Amnesty International has welcomed the commitment by the Macedonian authorities to ensure that the International Day for
Tolerance march in Skopje goes ahead on 16 November without hindrance.
The organisation also urged the Macedonian authorities to properly protect participants in the march from any threats or violence.
“The rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are guaranteed in law and it is essential that Macedonian authorities
uphold these rights,” said Sian Jones, Amnesty International’s Balkans expert.
The organizers of the march are appealing for tolerance and non-discrimination on basis of gender, ethnic or racial background,
religion or belief, disability, age, and sexual orientation or any other ground.
Earlier this year, participants in a peaceful student demonstration were physically attacked and racist, homophobic and other
discriminatory and abusive insults were hurled at them by a large “spontaneous” counter-demonstration.
“Civil society activists must be allowed to voice peacefully their concerns and act against discrimination of any kind, and to stand
up in defence of human rights and freedoms,” said Sian Jones.
The Tolerance march on 16 November is one of a number of activities being organized by a coalition of non-governmental
organizations, including Civil, the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in the Republic of Macedonia, and the Center for Freedom,
to celebrate the UN International Day of Tolerance.
The coalition is encouraging citizens and civil society organizations to organize similar events in other parts of the country.
The coalition will urge the government to adopt a draft Law on the Prevention and Protection from Discrimination. The adoption of
a law on non-discrimination is part of the process of legislative reform demanded by the European Union (EU) accession process.
In their November Progress Report, the European Commission highlighted continued discrimination in Macedonia against
minorities, including on the basis of sex, ethnic origin (in particular Roma), disability and sexual orientation.
Click here to read more »
13 November 2009
Amnesty International has welcomed the commitment by the Macedonian authorities to ensure that the International Day for
Tolerance march in Skopje goes ahead on 16 November without hindrance.
The organisation also urged the Macedonian authorities to properly protect participants in the march from any threats or violence.
“The rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are guaranteed in law and it is essential that Macedonian authorities
uphold these rights,” said Sian Jones, Amnesty International’s Balkans expert.
The organizers of the march are appealing for tolerance and non-discrimination on basis of gender, ethnic or racial background,
religion or belief, disability, age, and sexual orientation or any other ground.
Earlier this year, participants in a peaceful student demonstration were physically attacked and racist, homophobic and other
discriminatory and abusive insults were hurled at them by a large “spontaneous” counter-demonstration.
“Civil society activists must be allowed to voice peacefully their concerns and act against discrimination of any kind, and to stand
up in defence of human rights and freedoms,” said Sian Jones.
The Tolerance march on 16 November is one of a number of activities being organized by a coalition of non-governmental
organizations, including Civil, the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in the Republic of Macedonia, and the Center for Freedom,
to celebrate the UN International Day of Tolerance.
The coalition is encouraging citizens and civil society organizations to organize similar events in other parts of the country.
The coalition will urge the government to adopt a draft Law on the Prevention and Protection from Discrimination. The adoption of
a law on non-discrimination is part of the process of legislative reform demanded by the European Union (EU) accession process.
In their November Progress Report, the European Commission highlighted continued discrimination in Macedonia against
minorities, including on the basis of sex, ethnic origin (in particular Roma), disability and sexual orientation.
Click here to read more »
Macedonia: Broaden Anti-Discrimination Bill
Law Should Cover Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
February 3, 2010
(New York) - The Macedonian government's decision to ignore sexual orientation as a protected category in its draft anti-
discrimination law would leave lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) people without vital protection, Human Rights
Watch said today in a letter to Macedonian authorities. Human Rights Watch called on the government to support a comprehensive
and inclusive anti-discrimination bill, including protection on the basis of both sexual orientation and gender identity.
The minister of labor and social policy, Xhelal Bajrami, announced the draft law on January 29, 2010. He acknowledged that it
deliberately omitted mention of sexual orientation and gender identity, but said that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people
could still ask for protection because the draft law refers to "other grounds" of discrimination.
"Silence equals inequality," said Boris O. Dittrich, advocacy director in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender program of
Human Rights Watch. "Vague references to ‘other grounds' simply aren't good enough."
The proposed law does not meet European or broader international human rights standards, Human Rights Watch said.
In the letter, Human Rights Watch refers to international human rights treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the
European Union, all of which prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Macedonia was one of the first countries in
Europe to ratify Protocol 12 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits discrimination, including on the
grounds of sexual orientation, in "any right set forth by law." However, Macedonia has not adjusted its domestic law to reflect its
international commitments.
In October 2009 the European Commission stated in its progress report on Macedonia that discrimination on the basis of sexual
orientation persists, and that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have no legal protection against it.
Neighboring jurisdictions, including Albania and Serbia, have amended their laws to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Click here to read more »
Law Should Cover Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
February 3, 2010
(New York) - The Macedonian government's decision to ignore sexual orientation as a protected category in its draft anti-
discrimination law would leave lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) people without vital protection, Human Rights
Watch said today in a letter to Macedonian authorities. Human Rights Watch called on the government to support a comprehensive
and inclusive anti-discrimination bill, including protection on the basis of both sexual orientation and gender identity.
The minister of labor and social policy, Xhelal Bajrami, announced the draft law on January 29, 2010. He acknowledged that it
deliberately omitted mention of sexual orientation and gender identity, but said that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people
could still ask for protection because the draft law refers to "other grounds" of discrimination.
"Silence equals inequality," said Boris O. Dittrich, advocacy director in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender program of
Human Rights Watch. "Vague references to ‘other grounds' simply aren't good enough."
The proposed law does not meet European or broader international human rights standards, Human Rights Watch said.
In the letter, Human Rights Watch refers to international human rights treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the
European Union, all of which prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Macedonia was one of the first countries in
Europe to ratify Protocol 12 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits discrimination, including on the
grounds of sexual orientation, in "any right set forth by law." However, Macedonia has not adjusted its domestic law to reflect its
international commitments.
In October 2009 the European Commission stated in its progress report on Macedonia that discrimination on the basis of sexual
orientation persists, and that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have no legal protection against it.
Neighboring jurisdictions, including Albania and Serbia, have amended their laws to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Click here to read more »
ADDRESS by H.E. Dr. GJORGE IVANOV PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
at the General Debate of the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
New York, 25 September, 2009
The Republic of Macedonia, since its independence, is continuously and faithfully committed to the promotion of democracy and the
improvement of the standard of living of its citizens, to essential reforms in all social spheres. The Republic of Macedonia in
continuity promotes its society that rests upon the rule of law, respect of human rights, multiethnic cohabitation, dialogue and mutual
understanding. In the past period, the Republic of Macedonia achieved impressive progress, recognized and approved by all. My
country today meritoriously expects the initiation of the accession negotiations with the EU. My country has fulfilled all the foreseen
conditions for NATO membership. My country is active and strong supporter of the regional cooperation, remains fully committed to
good-neighborly relations and to dialogue as key tool for overcoming all open issues in the region.
All governments in my country, consistently, not sparing time and resources, were focused on realization of the two top strategic
priorities, EL) and NATO integration.
The Republic of Macedonia is strongly dedicated to share and contribute to the Euro-Atlantic values and in the common vision for
enlargement of the stability and security zone in South-East Europe. The act of our southern neighbor, that prevented the Republic of
Macedonia from membership into the NATO Alliance, was contrary to the obligations undertaken in the 1995 Interim Agreement. This
was done in an attempt to influence the outcome of the negotiations held under the auspices of the UN and acted completely opposite
to such common visions. Notwithstanding, I would like to stress in front of this forum that the Republic of Macedonia is sincerely
dedicated to the process of resolving the differences with our southern neighbor within the mechanism set forth in UN Resolutions.
The Republic of Macedonia believes in the law and in the justice. The Republic of Macedonia believes in the International Court of
Justice, as a body of the World Organization and protector of the law. The Republic of Macedonia, besides the absurdity of the
dispute, sincerely hopes that soon the only obstacle which was preventing us from obtaining the deserved position in the Euro-Atlantic
family shall be removed.
Despite of the flagrant violation of the international obligations undertaken by our neighbor, whereas the Republic of Macedonia filed
an appeal to the International Court of Justice, convinced in the power of the dialogue, actively and constructively participates in the
negotiation process with the Republic of Greece.
I would like to state clearly that we are prepared to discuss the issues foreseen in the UN Resolutions only. The Republic of
Macedonia is prepared for a solution that is a reasonable and fair compromise, which shall not touch upon, nor deny our national,
cultural and linguistic identity in any way, a solution which shall obtain the legitimacy of the citizens. However, there is no more
sovereign right than the right of self-determination and self-identification, a right cherished by many generations before us.
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at the General Debate of the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
New York, 25 September, 2009
The Republic of Macedonia, since its independence, is continuously and faithfully committed to the promotion of democracy and the
improvement of the standard of living of its citizens, to essential reforms in all social spheres. The Republic of Macedonia in
continuity promotes its society that rests upon the rule of law, respect of human rights, multiethnic cohabitation, dialogue and mutual
understanding. In the past period, the Republic of Macedonia achieved impressive progress, recognized and approved by all. My
country today meritoriously expects the initiation of the accession negotiations with the EU. My country has fulfilled all the foreseen
conditions for NATO membership. My country is active and strong supporter of the regional cooperation, remains fully committed to
good-neighborly relations and to dialogue as key tool for overcoming all open issues in the region.
All governments in my country, consistently, not sparing time and resources, were focused on realization of the two top strategic
priorities, EL) and NATO integration.
The Republic of Macedonia is strongly dedicated to share and contribute to the Euro-Atlantic values and in the common vision for
enlargement of the stability and security zone in South-East Europe. The act of our southern neighbor, that prevented the Republic of
Macedonia from membership into the NATO Alliance, was contrary to the obligations undertaken in the 1995 Interim Agreement. This
was done in an attempt to influence the outcome of the negotiations held under the auspices of the UN and acted completely opposite
to such common visions. Notwithstanding, I would like to stress in front of this forum that the Republic of Macedonia is sincerely
dedicated to the process of resolving the differences with our southern neighbor within the mechanism set forth in UN Resolutions.
The Republic of Macedonia believes in the law and in the justice. The Republic of Macedonia believes in the International Court of
Justice, as a body of the World Organization and protector of the law. The Republic of Macedonia, besides the absurdity of the
dispute, sincerely hopes that soon the only obstacle which was preventing us from obtaining the deserved position in the Euro-Atlantic
family shall be removed.
Despite of the flagrant violation of the international obligations undertaken by our neighbor, whereas the Republic of Macedonia filed
an appeal to the International Court of Justice, convinced in the power of the dialogue, actively and constructively participates in the
negotiation process with the Republic of Greece.
I would like to state clearly that we are prepared to discuss the issues foreseen in the UN Resolutions only. The Republic of
Macedonia is prepared for a solution that is a reasonable and fair compromise, which shall not touch upon, nor deny our national,
cultural and linguistic identity in any way, a solution which shall obtain the legitimacy of the citizens. However, there is no more
sovereign right than the right of self-determination and self-identification, a right cherished by many generations before us.
Click here to read more »
Annual Report 2009
24 March 2010
Dear citizens,
If we take into consideration that the most crucial and the only important moving force in the work of the ombudsmen all over the
world are the citizens and their rights, the utmost truth is that the ombudsmen foremost and at every cost should and have to earn
the citizens’ trust.
Trust is built not only through promotion and criticizing bodies competent to decide upon citizens’ rights. On the contrary, the
issue is much more delicate and inevitably connected with the efficiency of the institution and its commitment, which is of special
importance for the ombudsmen in multi-ethnic societies.
Trust is built through real protection and assistance provided to citizens on a daily basis at our offices. Trust should and has to be
built, above all, on the authority which represents an immanent attribute in the functioning of the ombudsmen.
When I say an attribute, I primarily refer to the fact that the ombudsmen do not use sanctions in their conduct, meaning their
activities are always of convincing type, on the basis of firm arguments, which on the other hand represents a need for constantly
and totally determined conditions, and most of all, taking actions characterized by professionalism.
Those are our attributes while taking activities and I believe we are trying to maintain those particular directions in our work in
order to encourage the citizens to request our assistance. I consider the numbers to be a point of reference and that along with the
rest of conditions in human rights; they represent at the same time, in a way, the trust citizens have in this institution.
Numbers indicate that there is trust which has been increasing over the years. This represents stimulation and a challenge for us.
I believe that authority and professionalism should always represent the ombudsman’s virtues, for the reason of which they should
be constantly advanced.
Ixhet Mehmeti
Click here to read more »
24 March 2010
Dear citizens,
If we take into consideration that the most crucial and the only important moving force in the work of the ombudsmen all over the
world are the citizens and their rights, the utmost truth is that the ombudsmen foremost and at every cost should and have to earn
the citizens’ trust.
Trust is built not only through promotion and criticizing bodies competent to decide upon citizens’ rights. On the contrary, the
issue is much more delicate and inevitably connected with the efficiency of the institution and its commitment, which is of special
importance for the ombudsmen in multi-ethnic societies.
Trust is built through real protection and assistance provided to citizens on a daily basis at our offices. Trust should and has to be
built, above all, on the authority which represents an immanent attribute in the functioning of the ombudsmen.
When I say an attribute, I primarily refer to the fact that the ombudsmen do not use sanctions in their conduct, meaning their
activities are always of convincing type, on the basis of firm arguments, which on the other hand represents a need for constantly
and totally determined conditions, and most of all, taking actions characterized by professionalism.
Those are our attributes while taking activities and I believe we are trying to maintain those particular directions in our work in
order to encourage the citizens to request our assistance. I consider the numbers to be a point of reference and that along with the
rest of conditions in human rights; they represent at the same time, in a way, the trust citizens have in this institution.
Numbers indicate that there is trust which has been increasing over the years. This represents stimulation and a challenge for us.
I believe that authority and professionalism should always represent the ombudsman’s virtues, for the reason of which they should
be constantly advanced.
Ixhet Mehmeti
Click here to read more »
MHRMI and AMHRC Condemn Albania's State-Sponsored Discrimination Against Macedonians, Announce Funding for
Macedonian Language Classes
February 14, 2010
Toronto, Canada and Melbourne, Australia -- Macedonian Human Rights Movement International (MHRMI) and the Australian
Macedonian Human Rights Committee (AMHRC) condemn the Albanian government's involvement in preventing Macedonian
language classes from taking place in the Golo Brdo region.
The Director of the Educational Office in Bulqize, Miranda Kurti, sent a letter to officials in Golo Brdo and the Albanian Intelligence
Service stating,
"We have contacted the local government and the principals in charge of these schools concerning the termination of these private
courses. However we have to inform you that in the village Trebiste in the Municipality Trebiste and the village Pasinki in the
Municipality Ostreni, there are still operating illegal private courses in Macedonian. Therefore we ask for your cooperation and
intervention in the complete cessation of this activity..." (see full text below)
Albanian authorities in Golo Brdo have prevented around 200 students from attending private Macedonian language classes under
the pretext that the teachers are not qualified and the classes are "illegal". Some of the teachers have received death threats from the
Albanian authorities if they do not stop teaching Macedonian.
According to Edmond Osmani, teacher and Vice President of the Macedonian Alliance for European Integration,
"The Albanian principals and teachers beat Macedonian students, lower their grades, and mistreat their parents. Now the police
have begun issuing all kinds of threats. I personally have been threatened that I would be physically eliminated. We are under
permanent pressure to stop the teaching of Macedonian."
We note that during the recent election campaign in Albania, the coalition led by current Prime Minister, Sali Berisha, had promised
that Macedonian would be able to be freely studied and taught in the Golo Brdo region.
Today, the Albanian Minister of Education, Prof. Dr. Myqerem Tafaj, gave permission for the Macedonian classes to be taught in
Golo Brdo.
MHRMI, AMHRC and the Macedonian Alliance for European Integration call on the international community, and specifically the
European Union, to hold Albania accountable for its persecution of its Macedonian minority and force Albania to uphold its
obligations regarding minority rights under international human rights law.
Further, MHRMI and AMHRC are pleased to announce funding for the school operated by the Korca Regional Committee of the
Macedonian Alliance for European Integration, and will expand our funding of Macedonian language classes throughout Albania.
Click here to read more »
Macedonian Language Classes
February 14, 2010
Toronto, Canada and Melbourne, Australia -- Macedonian Human Rights Movement International (MHRMI) and the Australian
Macedonian Human Rights Committee (AMHRC) condemn the Albanian government's involvement in preventing Macedonian
language classes from taking place in the Golo Brdo region.
The Director of the Educational Office in Bulqize, Miranda Kurti, sent a letter to officials in Golo Brdo and the Albanian Intelligence
Service stating,
"We have contacted the local government and the principals in charge of these schools concerning the termination of these private
courses. However we have to inform you that in the village Trebiste in the Municipality Trebiste and the village Pasinki in the
Municipality Ostreni, there are still operating illegal private courses in Macedonian. Therefore we ask for your cooperation and
intervention in the complete cessation of this activity..." (see full text below)
Albanian authorities in Golo Brdo have prevented around 200 students from attending private Macedonian language classes under
the pretext that the teachers are not qualified and the classes are "illegal". Some of the teachers have received death threats from the
Albanian authorities if they do not stop teaching Macedonian.
According to Edmond Osmani, teacher and Vice President of the Macedonian Alliance for European Integration,
"The Albanian principals and teachers beat Macedonian students, lower their grades, and mistreat their parents. Now the police
have begun issuing all kinds of threats. I personally have been threatened that I would be physically eliminated. We are under
permanent pressure to stop the teaching of Macedonian."
We note that during the recent election campaign in Albania, the coalition led by current Prime Minister, Sali Berisha, had promised
that Macedonian would be able to be freely studied and taught in the Golo Brdo region.
Today, the Albanian Minister of Education, Prof. Dr. Myqerem Tafaj, gave permission for the Macedonian classes to be taught in
Golo Brdo.
MHRMI, AMHRC and the Macedonian Alliance for European Integration call on the international community, and specifically the
European Union, to hold Albania accountable for its persecution of its Macedonian minority and force Albania to uphold its
obligations regarding minority rights under international human rights law.
Further, MHRMI and AMHRC are pleased to announce funding for the school operated by the Korca Regional Committee of the
Macedonian Alliance for European Integration, and will expand our funding of Macedonian language classes throughout Albania.
Click here to read more »
South Slavic tribes settled in the territory of present-day Republic of Macedonia in the 6th century. The Slavic
settlements were referred to by Byzantine Greek historians as "Sklavines". The Sklavines participated in several
assaults against the Byzantine Empire - alone or aided by Bulgars or Avars. By the time of Constans II (who also
organized campaigns against the Slavs), the significant number of the Slavs of Macedonia were captured and
transferred to central Asia Minor where they were forced to recognize the authority of the Byzantine emperor and
serve in its ranks. There are no Byzantine records of "Sklavines" after 836/837 as the Slavs of Macedonia were
assimilated into the First Bulgarian Empire. Slavic influence in the region strengthened along with the rise of this state,
which incorporated entire region to its domain in 837 AD. Saints Cyril and Methodius, Byzantines, born in
Thessaloniki, were the creators of the first Slavic Glagolitic alphabet and Old Church Slavonic language, and also
apostles-christianizators of the Slavic world. At the end of the 10th century what is now Vardar Macedonia
(Republic of Macedonia) was turned into the political and cultural center of the First Bulgarian Empire under tsar
Samuil. After several decades of almost incessant war, Bulgaria fell under Byzantine rule in 1018. The whole of
Macedonia was incorporated into the Byzantine Empire as the province of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Patriarchate
was reduced in rank to an archbishopric. In the 13th and 14th century Byzantine control was punctuated by periods
of Bulgarian and Serbian rule. Skopje became a capital of Serbian Empire. Conquered by the Ottoman army in the
first half of the 15th century, region remained a part of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 500 years, during which it
gained a substantial Turkish minority. During the Ottoman rule, Skopje and Bitola were capitals of Ottoman
provinces (eyalets). The region was captured by Serbia during First Balkan War of 1912 and was subsequently
annexed to Serbia in the post-war peace treaties. It had no administrative autonomy and was called Južna Srbija
("Southern Serbia") or Stara Srbija ("Old Serbia"). After the First World War, the Kingdom of Serbia joined the
newly formed Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. In 1929, the kingdom was officially renamed the Kingdom
of Yugoslavia and was divided into provinces called banovinas. During World War II, the Vardar Banovina was
occupied between 1941 and 1944 by Italian-ruled Albania, which annexed the Albanian-populated western regions,
and pro-German Bulgaria, which occupied the remainder. The occupying powers persecuted the province's
inhabitants which opposed the regime, which prompted many of them to join the Communist resistance movement of
Josip Broz Tito. However, the Bulgarian army was partially recruited from the local population, which formed as
much as 40% of the soldiers in certain battalions. Following World War II, Yugoslavia was reconstituted as a federal
state under the leadership of Tito's Yugoslav Communist Party. When the former Vardar province was established in
1944, most of its territory was transferred into a separate republic while the northernmost parts of the province
remained with Serbia. In 1946, the new republic was given federal status as an autonomous "People's Republic of
Macedonia" within the new Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. In the 1963 Constitution of Yugoslavia it was
slightly renamed, to bring it in line with the other Yugoslav republics, as the "Socialist Republic of Macedonia".
Greece was offended by the Yugoslav government's actions, as they were seen as pretext for future territorial claims,
since the Greek province of "Northern Greece", which in 1988 was renamed to province of "Macedonia", was part
of the spoils that Greece received during the Balkan Wars and to which both Serbia and Bulgaria have made historic
claims. The Yugoslav authorities also promoted the development of the Macedonians' ethnic identity and
Macedonian language. The Macedonian language was codified in 1944 (Keith 2003), from the language spoken by
the majority of the population in the Republic of Macedonia. This angered both Greece and Bulgaria, because of the
possible territorial claims of the new states to the Greek and Bulgarian parts of the region of Macedonia received
after the Balkan Wars. During the Greek Civil War (1944-1949), many Macedonians (regardless of ethnicity)
participated in the ELAS resistance movement organized by the Greek Communist Party. ELAS and Yugoslavia
were on good terms until 1949, when they split due to Tito's lack of allegiance to Stalin (cf. Cominform). On
September 8, 1991, the Socialist Republic of Macedonia held a referendum that established its independence from
Yugoslavia, under the name of the Republic of Macedonia. However, international recognition of the new country
was delayed by Greece's objection to the use of what it considered a Hellenic name and national symbols, as well as
controversial clauses in the Republic's constitution. To compromise, the United Nations recognised the state under
the name of "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" in 1993. Greece was still dissatisfied and it imposed a
trade blockade in February 1994. The sanctions were lifted in September 1995 after the Republic of Macedonia
changed its flag and aspects of its constitution that were perceived as granting it the right to intervene in the affairs of
other countries. The two neighbours immediately went ahead with normalizing their relations, but the state's name
remains a source of local and international controversy. The usage of each name remains controversial to supporters
of the other. After the state was admitted to the United Nations under the temporary reference "the former Yugoslav
Republic of Macedonia", other international organisations adopted the same convention. The undetermined status of
neighboring Kosovo, implementation of the Framework Agreement - which ended the 2001 ethnic Albanian armed
insurgency - and a weak economy continue to be challenges for Macedonia.
Sources: Wikipedia History of the Republic of Macedonia; CIA World Factbook (select Macedonia)
settlements were referred to by Byzantine Greek historians as "Sklavines". The Sklavines participated in several
assaults against the Byzantine Empire - alone or aided by Bulgars or Avars. By the time of Constans II (who also
organized campaigns against the Slavs), the significant number of the Slavs of Macedonia were captured and
transferred to central Asia Minor where they were forced to recognize the authority of the Byzantine emperor and
serve in its ranks. There are no Byzantine records of "Sklavines" after 836/837 as the Slavs of Macedonia were
assimilated into the First Bulgarian Empire. Slavic influence in the region strengthened along with the rise of this state,
which incorporated entire region to its domain in 837 AD. Saints Cyril and Methodius, Byzantines, born in
Thessaloniki, were the creators of the first Slavic Glagolitic alphabet and Old Church Slavonic language, and also
apostles-christianizators of the Slavic world. At the end of the 10th century what is now Vardar Macedonia
(Republic of Macedonia) was turned into the political and cultural center of the First Bulgarian Empire under tsar
Samuil. After several decades of almost incessant war, Bulgaria fell under Byzantine rule in 1018. The whole of
Macedonia was incorporated into the Byzantine Empire as the province of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Patriarchate
was reduced in rank to an archbishopric. In the 13th and 14th century Byzantine control was punctuated by periods
of Bulgarian and Serbian rule. Skopje became a capital of Serbian Empire. Conquered by the Ottoman army in the
first half of the 15th century, region remained a part of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 500 years, during which it
gained a substantial Turkish minority. During the Ottoman rule, Skopje and Bitola were capitals of Ottoman
provinces (eyalets). The region was captured by Serbia during First Balkan War of 1912 and was subsequently
annexed to Serbia in the post-war peace treaties. It had no administrative autonomy and was called Južna Srbija
("Southern Serbia") or Stara Srbija ("Old Serbia"). After the First World War, the Kingdom of Serbia joined the
newly formed Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. In 1929, the kingdom was officially renamed the Kingdom
of Yugoslavia and was divided into provinces called banovinas. During World War II, the Vardar Banovina was
occupied between 1941 and 1944 by Italian-ruled Albania, which annexed the Albanian-populated western regions,
and pro-German Bulgaria, which occupied the remainder. The occupying powers persecuted the province's
inhabitants which opposed the regime, which prompted many of them to join the Communist resistance movement of
Josip Broz Tito. However, the Bulgarian army was partially recruited from the local population, which formed as
much as 40% of the soldiers in certain battalions. Following World War II, Yugoslavia was reconstituted as a federal
state under the leadership of Tito's Yugoslav Communist Party. When the former Vardar province was established in
1944, most of its territory was transferred into a separate republic while the northernmost parts of the province
remained with Serbia. In 1946, the new republic was given federal status as an autonomous "People's Republic of
Macedonia" within the new Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. In the 1963 Constitution of Yugoslavia it was
slightly renamed, to bring it in line with the other Yugoslav republics, as the "Socialist Republic of Macedonia".
Greece was offended by the Yugoslav government's actions, as they were seen as pretext for future territorial claims,
since the Greek province of "Northern Greece", which in 1988 was renamed to province of "Macedonia", was part
of the spoils that Greece received during the Balkan Wars and to which both Serbia and Bulgaria have made historic
claims. The Yugoslav authorities also promoted the development of the Macedonians' ethnic identity and
Macedonian language. The Macedonian language was codified in 1944 (Keith 2003), from the language spoken by
the majority of the population in the Republic of Macedonia. This angered both Greece and Bulgaria, because of the
possible territorial claims of the new states to the Greek and Bulgarian parts of the region of Macedonia received
after the Balkan Wars. During the Greek Civil War (1944-1949), many Macedonians (regardless of ethnicity)
participated in the ELAS resistance movement organized by the Greek Communist Party. ELAS and Yugoslavia
were on good terms until 1949, when they split due to Tito's lack of allegiance to Stalin (cf. Cominform). On
September 8, 1991, the Socialist Republic of Macedonia held a referendum that established its independence from
Yugoslavia, under the name of the Republic of Macedonia. However, international recognition of the new country
was delayed by Greece's objection to the use of what it considered a Hellenic name and national symbols, as well as
controversial clauses in the Republic's constitution. To compromise, the United Nations recognised the state under
the name of "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" in 1993. Greece was still dissatisfied and it imposed a
trade blockade in February 1994. The sanctions were lifted in September 1995 after the Republic of Macedonia
changed its flag and aspects of its constitution that were perceived as granting it the right to intervene in the affairs of
other countries. The two neighbours immediately went ahead with normalizing their relations, but the state's name
remains a source of local and international controversy. The usage of each name remains controversial to supporters
of the other. After the state was admitted to the United Nations under the temporary reference "the former Yugoslav
Republic of Macedonia", other international organisations adopted the same convention. The undetermined status of
neighboring Kosovo, implementation of the Framework Agreement - which ended the 2001 ethnic Albanian armed
insurgency - and a weak economy continue to be challenges for Macedonia.
Sources: Wikipedia History of the Republic of Macedonia; CIA World Factbook (select Macedonia)
Click on map for larger view
Click on flag for Country Report
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Trafficking in persons continued to be a problem, although increased government attention contributed to an apparent
decline in some forms of trafficking during the year.
decline in some forms of trafficking during the year.
