Brussels, 24 June 2025 (MIA) - By signing an international agreement on the country's participation in the EU's Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, from the heart of Brussels we reaffirm our commitment to European values, democracy, the rule of law and human rights, Minister of Social Policy, Demography and Youth, Fatmir Limani, told MIA on Tuesday. 

"With this agreement, our country gains access to an important instrument in promoting social rights, institutional strengthening and active civic participation. We become an equal partner with EU member states in the protection of human rights, the fight against discrimination and the inclusion of vulnerable categories," Limani said after signing the agreement with the EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath, in Brussels.

Limani pointed out that participation in the CERV programme provides financial support for civil society organizations, assistance to institutions in strengthening capacities for the protection of fundamental rights, platforms for legal aid and monitoring, as well as activities in the fight against gender inequality and violence.

"This participation is also an important step towards meeting the criteria of Chapters 23 and 24, as part of our European path. Despite the progress, there are challenges that require joint work by all of us," said the Minister of Social Policy, Demography and Youth. 

Limani called on all institutions, the civil society sector and local authorities to seize the opportunity and engage with sustainable solutions to build a fairer, more inclusive and democratic society.

He noted that joining the CERV programme enables civil society organizations, state institutions and local self-government bodies to directly apply for grants to implement projects through the IPA pre-accession assistance programme. 

"I believe this is the most ideal path and the most democratic method, and I appeal to all non-governmental organizations, institutions and municipalities to use it," Limani added.

The Minister noted that EU Commissioner McGrath has called on the country to fulfil all commitments that pave the way for its accession to the European Union, and announced that he intends to visit Skopje.

"I promised him that by the time he visits our country, we will have some of the commitments fulfilled," said Limani.  

He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders that have contributed to the signing of the agreement, as well as to MIA for its efforts in reflecting all the good and positive steps being taken by the Government and the Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth.

The CERV programme aims to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights. It was launched in 2021 and will run for seven years until 2027.

Photo: MIA