OSCE Mission to Skopje holds annual conference on decentralization

The Prime Minister, government ministers and mayors of all 81 local self-government units in the country gathered on 14 December 2018 for a national conference organized by the OSCE Mission to Skopje and the Association of Municipalities (ZELS) to discuss the remaining challenges related to the decentralization process.

The Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Clemens Koja, noted that decentralization is an important part of the Ohrid Framework Agreement and is designed to bring political power closer to citizens.

“Decentralization is a process that provides opportunities for greater inclusion and participation of citizens in decision-making processes. But at its ultimate extent, decentralization is about providing better services. Now is the time to rethink the process, join forces and decide on the next steps,” said Koja.

During the discussion, the Prime Minister, government ministers, and mayors discussed how to strengthen the implementation of the decentralization process.

“We are committed to deepening decentralization, because we believe we are ready for new challenges. Prior to this, we need adequate and stable funding. In short: we need decentralization that will provide financially stable municipalities,” said Petre Shilegov, President of ZELS and Mayor of Skopje.