PM Praises Macedonia's Judicial Reforms

Gruevski mentioned the draft laws on the academy of judges and prosecutors, and on courts, which are expected to be adopted soon, as examples that the country is following EU recommendations in this area to make the judiciary independent and free of political influence.

“These two acts are essential for depoliticizing the judiciary, as they will prevent parties and politicians from influencing decision-making,” Gruevski said.

He added that they will include stricter rules about who can be elected to serve as a judge and tougher standards in career achievements as they climb the professional ladder.

“The rule of law is one of the fundamental values of Macedonia's Constitution. Only a society based on justice can reach stability and prosperity. This principle may be consistently applied only if we nourish a fair, independent and efficient judicial system,” Gruevski said.

Macedonian Justice Minister Mihajlo Manevski was also present at the ceremony. He stressed that last October’s European Commission report on Macedonia's progress towards EU membership, which was positive, also mentioned progress in the sphere of the judiciary.

The EC last year praised some of the reforms of the judiciary which included the speeding up of court procedures, thus making the judiciary more efficient. However, the EC noted more progress was needed and raised concern over political influence on judges.

Manevski was also slammed by local opposition parties for interfering in the work of the judiciary. His seat in the country’s Judicial Council has been especially controversial.

The construction of the building that should provide more room for the court administration in Skopje is supported by the World Bank with funds of €8.3 million and money from Macedonia's budget. It should be completed in 18 months.