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"We appreciate that the authorities plan to expedite reform of the
election legislation," said Christian Strohal, head of the OSCE's
Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. "However, such a
process takes time to allow for consultation with the political
parties, international experts and the public. This will help to ensure
public confidence in the resulting legislation."
The ODIHR today published its final report on municipal elections
earlier this year in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The
report offers a series of recommendations to assist the authorities in
improving the election process, which proved problematic in a number of
municipalities. "The report also emphasizes that political will is
essential for any improvements to positively impact the process," read
an OSCE statement.
The ODIHR wants Macedonia to take action on election violations so as
to restore rule of law and confidence in the election process. Cases of
electoral violations are currently being investigated by local
authorities. Macedonia's compliance with European standards on
elections and democracy is important in determining the pace of the
country's EU integration.
Earlier this month, on an unofficial visit to Finland, Macedonian Prime
Minister Vlado Buckovski met with EU Enlargement Commissioner
Olli Rehn. "We are preparing an advisory report on Macedonia's
application for full-fledged membership," Rehn told the Macedonian
Information Agency. Rehn gave support to Macedonia's efforts to join
the 25-member EU bloc but steered clear of the continuing dispute with
Greece over Macedonia's official name. "I encourage both countries to
resolve this problem that will not influence the 'avis' on EU
integration," Rehn said.
Friday, 17 June 2005