„Dimitrie Cupovski“ 13, 1000 Skopje +38923244000 [email protected]
16/12/2024
On 9 December, International Anti-Corruption Day, the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia and Transparency International – Macedonia organized an event titled "Partnership Between the Business Sector, Institutions, and Civil Organizations in the Fight Against Corruption."
The event brought together representatives from various sectors who emphasized that strengthening the partnership between the business sector, institutions, and civil organizations is essential for an effective fight against corruption. These three pillars can create a synergy that transforms society and ensures a fair and transparent business environment.
Opening the event, Branko Azeski, President of the Economic Chamber, stressed that combating corruption is a top priority for the Chamber, as businesses are among its primary victims.
"We aim to intensify the fight against corruption and will cooperate with institutions at all levels. Persistence is the only remedy in this battle, and the truth must always be revealed. The fight against corruption must evolve from being merely declarative to becoming concrete. I hope that by December 2025, when we mark Anti-Corruption Day again, we will discuss specific activities we have implemented," Azeski stated.
Key speakers shared their insights on corruption practices and anti-corruption efforts, including Blagoja Pandovski, President of Transparency International – Macedonia, Sasho Jakovchevski, Assistant State Auditor of the State Audit Office (DZR), who highlighted institutional weaknesses identified in audit reports that negatively impact the business sector, Servet Demiri, member of the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption, who addressed the topic "Detected Corruption Risks: Supporting Transparency and Integrity in the Private Sector," and Stefan Andonovski, Minister for Digital Transformation, who spoke about digitalizing public services as a tool to reduce corruption.
According to the latest Corruption Perception Index, North Macedonia scored 42 points, ranking 76th globally. While the ranking reflects slight improvement, it is evident that more efforts are needed for substantial progress.