“Trust between EU and NATO member states is becoming a crucial factor in ensuring stability and security in Europe and the world. Further, the trust of citizens in the ability of national institutions to fulfil their constitutional mission is no less essential than ever.”

“Corruption goes beyond bribery and is a threat to democracy. Public-private partnerships are essential in fighting this challenge. The demand for democracy remains robust all over the world, giving people the best chance for a fair share.”

“The war showed that the risks to democratic governance and national security are linked. Bulgaria has accepted the important and responsible role of leading a cohort to question and find solutions to the challenge of corruption as a factor affecting national security, the sovereignty of each nation, and the stability of the region.”

“Fighting corruption is a defining challenge of our era. Corruption weakens people’s resolve and their ability to belive they can do better.” 

There is a strong expectation that the potential future member states uphold the rule of law. Clear progress in the fight against corruption is essential for the progress of the EU membership. Reforms in this context need to be deep and without compromise, and it is clear to us that only with integrity, transparency and high standards will make these reforms succeed.” 

The role of the civil society organizations of the region in the area of good governance is essential for the advancement of the Western Balkans on their path to the EU.”

Reducing corruption bolsters national security. When citizens of a nation feel they cannot succeed within their system because of the corrupt systems of corruptive practices, we see dangerous ripple effects throughout society and the world. Corruption serves as a driver toward false or even more violent extremist narratives.”

The European project is not finished until the Western Balkans are inside. … The Economic and Investment Plan will speed up the economic development of the Western Balkans and boost the region’s convergence with the European Union. However, the implementation of this plan goes hand-in-hand with the continued need for reforms in the areas of so-called “fundamentals”.

Nicola BertoliniHead of Operation, EU Delegation to the Republic of North Macedonia , 08 April 2021

The informal economy is a multi-faceted problem and as a result, it needs to be tackled in a comprehensive way, with a full government approach. What we have been seeing in some countries is that this is not the case – there are partial ways of trying to address informality (even though the problem is acknowledged). This calls for a comprehensive look, not only from the angle of a particular ministry or institution.