Skopje, 11 November 2024 (MIA) – The Republic of North Macedonia is taking active steps to improve the condition of the Roma in social, economic and cultural aspects, as outlined in the report on the progress of Roma inclusion in the country.

Minister of Social Policy, Demography, and Youth, Fatmir Limani, addressing the presentation on Monday said that those who make decisions bear the greatest responsibility for respecting human rights, but the most valuable partners to the authorities are the citizens and all those who cooperate with the institutions.

“It is our responsibility to build a society where citizens, regardless of their ethnic background, feel safe and have equal access to resources for progress,” Limani said.

Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Kilian Wahl, praised North Macedonia’s commitment and said that the path to full equality remains, requiring continuous efforts.

“North Macedonia has laid a good foundation, but now it needs to be further developed,” he noted.

According to the Minister without portfolio for integration and implementation of the Roma Inclusion Strategy, Shaban Saliu, the Roma Strategy is more than just a document; it is a key framework and roadmap for achieving sustainable integration of the Roma community in all areas of public life.

"It is our task to build a long-lasting and sustainable system that ensures inclusion," he said.

The report provides a number of conclusions concerning the situation of the Roma in our country, including recommendations for advancing at the systemic, public policy, and institutional levels.

Photo: MIA