The first REUFORM module, dedicated to Governance, Democracy and Rule of Law, was successfully implemented as part of the REUFORM – EU Reform Action project. The two-day module focused on the importance of rule of law, accountability, transparency and democratic governance in North Macedonia’s EU accession process.

The module was implemented by Strategers Institute in cooperation with South East European University (SEEU), bringing together a distinguished and enthusiastic group of participants from diverse professional and social backgrounds, including representatives of civil society, media and youth. Their active engagement, reflections and exchange of perspectives enriched the learning process and contributed to a dynamic environment for dialogue.

The opening of the module included introductory remarks by Biljana Butlevska, Director at Strategers Institute, and Prof. Dr. Veli Kreci, Director at the Max van der Stoel Institute, followed by guest remarks from Mr. Ben Nupnau, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia.

During the first day, participants took part in expert sessions and interactive discussions led by Prof. Dr. Besa Arifi from South East European University (SEEU) and Ilina Mangova, MA. The sessions addressed key challenges related to justice reform, institutional accountability, transparency, public trust and the role of civil society organisations, media and youth as active partners in reform processes.

The second day continued the discussion with a stronger focus on practical reflection, group work and the formulation of concrete recommendations. Building on the insights from the first day, participants worked together to identify key challenges related to democratic governance, institutional accountability, public trust and the implementation of rule of law reforms in the context of North Macedonia’s EU accession process.

Through interactive exercises and open exchange, participants shared valuable perspectives and recommendations that will serve as an important input for the preparation of the project’s policy paper following the completion of the module. Their contributions helped strengthen the participatory approach of REUFORM and supported the project’s objective of encouraging informed public engagement in the EU reform process.

Strategers Institute extends its sincere appreciation to all participants for their active involvement, thoughtful reflections and constructive dialogue throughout both days of the module. Special appreciation goes to the lecturers, Prof. Dr. Besa Arifi and Ilina Mangova, MA, for their valuable expertise, guidance and contribution to the successful implementation of the module.

We also extend our appreciation to the Strategers Institute team, including Blerta Zeqiri, Head of Operations and Communication and Visibility Officer, and Arlinda Limani, Head of Finance, for their important role in the coordination, organization and implementation of the module.

The REUFORM project is financially supported by Sweden, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, and the Ministry for European Affairs, through the “Support to European Integration of North Macedonia” project, implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).