Annual National Programme of The Republic of Macedonia For NATO Membership 2013-2014

ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME
2013/2014
S, N 2013
ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME
2013/2014
Skopje, November 2013
2013-2014 ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA FOR NATO MEMBERSHIP
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Macedonian Information Centre
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CONTENTS
INTRODUcTiON . ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 EXecUTiVe SUmmARY .............................................................................................................................................................................................7
CHAPTER I: POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES . .......................................................................................................... 11

FOREIGN POLICY.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA....................................................................................................11 1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA..........................................................................................................12 1.3. STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS UN, OSCE, COUNCIL OF EUROPE ..........................................................................................................13 1.4. STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES...........14 1.5. ADVANCEMENT OF GOOD-NEIGHBOURLY RELATIONS.......................................................................................................14
INTERNAL POLICY. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................15 1.6. ADVANCEMENT OF POLITICAL DIALOGUE BY STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA..............................................................................................................................................15 1.7. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OHRID FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT.........................................................................................15 1.8. ADVANCEMENT OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REFORMS..................................................................................................16 1.9. ADVANCEMENT OF JUSTICE SYSTEM REFORMS.....................................................................................................................17 1.10. ELECTION LEGISLATION....................................................................................................................................................................18 1.11. POLICE REFORM PRIORITIES............................................................................................................................................................19 1.12. NORmATiVe AND iNsTiTUTiONAl meAsURes iN The fighT AgAiNsT ORgANizeD cRime AND cORRUpTiON...............................................................................................................................................................................20 1.13. MEDIA: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS........................................................................22 1.14. COUNTERING NEW SECURITY CHALLENGES............................................................................................................................23 1.14.1. FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM.............................................................................................................................................23 1.14.2. INFORMATION SECURITY...................................................................................................................................................24 1.14.3. ENERGY SECURITY.................................................................................................................................................................24 1.14.4. ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY.............................................................................................................................................25 1.14.5. CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION..................25 1.14.6. CONTROL OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS................................................................................................25
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1.14.7. FIGHT AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN BEINGS AND ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION.......................................26
1.15. IMPROVING THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM....................................................................................................................27 1.16. BUDGET AND ECONOMY..................................................................................................................................................................27 1.16.1. BUDGET OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA ............................................................................................................27 1.16.2. MACRO ECONOMY................................................................................................................................................................27 1.16.3. ECONOMIC PRIORITIES CREATING A FAVOURABLE BUSINESS CLIMATE AND PROMOTING COMPETITIVENESS..........................................................................................................................28 1.16.4. TRADE LIBERALIZATION LIBERALIZATION OF MARKET SERVICES UNDER CEFTA 2006........................29
CHAPTER II: DEFENCE AND MILITARY ISSUES . ................................................................................................................ 31

2. DEFENCE POLICY AND PLANS. ...............................................................................................................................................................31 2.1. TRANSFORMATION OF THE ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA (ARM)...........................................................31 2.2. HUMAN RESOURCES...........................................................................................................................................................................32 2.3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING ...........................................................................................................................................................32 2.4. CONTRIBUTION TO INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS ..............................................................................................................33 2.5. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION....................................................................................................................................................33 2.6. LOGISTIC SUPPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE ...........................................................................................................................33
CHAPTER III: DEFENCE RESOURCES............................................................................................................................................... 35

3. DEFENCE RESOURCES. ................................................................................................................................................................................35
CHAPTER IV: SECURITY ISSUES.......................................................................................................................................................... 37

4. SECURITY ISSUES...........................................................................................................................................................................................37
CHAPTER V: LEGAL ISSUES . ................................................................................................................................................................ 39

5. LEGAL ISSUES. .................................................................................................................................................................................................39
ANNEXES
Annex 1. Basic Public Prosecutors office data for conviction in the field of organiZed crime for THE 1 april 2013 31 JULY 2013 PERIOD....................................................... 125 Annex 2. Basic Macroeconomic Indicators......................................................................................................................... 127
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Summary highlights the main activities under the 2013-2014 Annual National Programme for NATO Membership of the Republic of Macedonia and contains the five standard chapters:
POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

The strategic foreign policy priorities of the Republic of Macedonia are membership of NATO and EU, while special attention is paid to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue. Under the Macedonian Chairmanship of the USAdriatic Charter, Foreign Ministers had a meeting of the Partnership Commission on 18 June 2013, in Skopje, marking the tenth anniversary of the Adriatic Charter. The Republic of Macedonia remains committed to furthering friendly and partnership relations with its neighbours (Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Kosovo) based on the principles of mutual trust and respect and on the interest in the Euro-Atlantic integration of the regional countries. The Republic of Macedonia is committed to its participation in NATO, EU and UN- led missions, and currently contributes to the ISAF Mission in Afghanistan (155 troops), the EU Mission ALTHEA (11 troops) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon (1), or contributes with a total number of 167 troops. Furthermore, the country provides logistic support to the KFOR operations in Kosovo. The Republic of Macedonia has reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to global security through its participation in the post ISAF Mission Resolute Support aimed at training, mentoring and providing advice to the Afghanistan security forces. The Agreement with the EU on participation in EU crises management operations is in force and the country will continue to participate in the ALTHEA Mission and in the EU Battle Group 2014. The dialogue with the EU will continue on all relevant foreign, defence and security policies issues. In the regular annual report about the progress of the Republic of Macedonia in the accession to the EU, issued on 16 October 2013, the EC recommends to the Council of the EU to adopt a decision for start of accession negotiations, considering that the Republic of Macedonia continues to fulfil the relevant political criteria. In light of the fact that accession negotiations have not started yet, the High Level Accession Dialogue between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the European Commission, which started in March 2012, provides for a solid framework to maintain the dynamics of reforms required in the EU accession context. As a result of the active political dialogue and the political consensus, in September 2013, political parties signed a Memorandum on European Integration.
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In order to further strengthen the engagement within UN, the Republic of Macedonia has applied for membership of the UN Human Rights Council, for the 2014-2016 period. In the domestic political arena, the implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement remains one of the priorities of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, with a focus on equitable representation of all ethnic communities, relevant use of languages, as well as monitoring of the process of implementing the Framework Agreement at the local level. The Republic of Macedonia continues to implement activities foreseen in the 2010-2015 Strategy for Public Administration Reforms. The Government has adopted a revised Reform Action Plan. In this context, a Law on Administration has been drafted that contains provisions that improve the system of public administration. The key prerogative is that changes provide mobility of employees in the public sector. Justice system reforms remain high on the agenda of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, with a focus on strengthening the independence and efficiency of the judiciary, introduction of new regulation defining disciplinary responsibility, introduction of objective and measurable criteria in establishing malfeasance and negligent behaviour by judges, increasing transparency, new assessment system and merit based promotion of judges. In the 2013-2015 period, the Republic of Macedonia will continue implementing activities to introduce information technology that will facilitate more efficient work the judiciary. One of the key priorities is fight against organized crime and corruption. Special attention is paid to the implementation of the new Law on Criminal Procedure that will enter in force on 1 December 2013, which foresees transfer of competences for all pre-trial investigations to the Public Prosecutors Office. The amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption are aimed at providing systematic and institutional protection of persons willing to file a case against corruption. Furthermore, the State Commission will also deal with cases under the Law on Prevention of Conflict of Interest. In the context of police reforms, activities are undertaken for implementation of the 2013-2015 Strategic Plan of the Ministry of the Interior, especially for attaining priorities in the fight against corruption and organized crime, strengthening the trust of citizens in the police, improving public security and advancing the administrative capacities to fight transborder crime and corruption and terrorism. In the first half of 2013, the State Election Commission organized regular local elections, using a Voters List the up-dating of which was supported by all political parties, and noted by the OSCE/ODIHR. In the 2013-2014 period, the activities of the State Election Commission will be directed towards preparation, organization and later assessment of the regular presidential elections, foreseen to take place in March 2014. According to the Electoral Code, the Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia is expected to adopt a decision announcing the presidential elections at the end of 2013 or at the beginning of 2014. The proper regulation of the media and audio visual media services has become a necessity and after consultations with the OSCE and the Council of Europe, activities have been undertaken to establish, i.e. improve the appropriate legal framework on the freedom of expression and work of media that would be in accordance with international standards. EU Directive 13/2010/EC has been transposed in the draft Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services. Economic growth, competitiveness, high level of employment, improved living standard of citizens will remain to be the major priorities of the Government.
DEFENCE AND SECURITY POLICY

In accordance with the National Security Strategy, activities will be centred on the countrys further efforts under NATO peace operations, then on creation of deployable military capacities and on regional defence cooperation.
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In order to ensure continued development of the military capacities, the 2014-2023 Long Term Development Plan of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia, which, inter alia, envisages modernization of the Army, has been amended and is expected to be adopted by the Government by the end of 2013. This document defines the vision for defence development in the forthcoming 10 year period, setting forth as well the priorities, the defence budget in support of the modernization, and establishing directions for long term capacity development. The Republic of Macedonia remains committed to the efforts of the international community in countering emerging security challenges, such as fight against terrorism, cybercrime, maintaining energy stability, environmental protection, WMD control, reduction and non-proliferation, illegal migration. The Republic of Macedonia appreciates the support by the NATO Liaison Office in Skopje, and by the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey, which is NATOs contact point Embassy.
DEFENCE RESOURCES
The transformation of the Army is to be realized through a steady increase of the defence budget, then by applying new modalities of regional cooperation, as well as by implementing the smart defence concept and with direct support, i.e. donations by interested countries. The global economic crisis affected the budget of the Ministry of Defence, especially the Army modernization activities. Hence, most activities have been postponed for the forthcoming period. The 2013 defence budget is about EUR 96 million or 1.20% of the GDP distributed as follows: 67.83% for personnel, 23.11% for operation and maintenance and 9.06% for equipment and infrastructure. The 2014 draft budget is about EUR 99 million.
SECURITY ISSUES
The Directorate for Security of Classified Information, as the national security authority, continually implements NATO and EU standards in this area.
LEGAL ISSUES
The national legislation of the Republic of Macedonia does not pose obstacles for NATO membership.
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CHAPTER I
POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES
FOREIGN POLICY
The strategic foreign policy priorities of the Republic of Macedonia are membership of NATO and EU, while special attention is paid to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue, regional and global peace and security. The Republic of Macedonia actively contributes to the activities of international organizations with respect to all issues of common interest.
1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

Fully-fledged membership of NATO and EU is one of the strategic priorities of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia. The country also attaches priority to the further development of the policy of good-neighbourly relations and promotion of regional cooperation and dialogue, economic growth, advancement of the business climate and improving conditions for investments, higher employment rate, and improving the living standard of citizens. The countrys participation in international NATO, EU and UN-led peace operations reaffirms that the Republic of Macedonia is a responsible partner of the Alliance and of the international community. This has been proven with the participation of the Republic of Macedonia in the ISAF Mission in Afghanistan (155 troops), the EU Mission ALTHEA (11 troops) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon (1) and with the logistic support provided to KFOR operations in Kosovo, all of which amounts to 167 troops, or 3% of the total personnel. According to the projections, the same level of participation will be maintained next year as well. The country will continue providing logistic support to the KFOR operations, under the Host Nation Support Coordination Centre. In December 2012, the Republic of Macedonia reaffirmed its commitment to further contributing to the post ISAF Mission, in line with the Alliance needs and the countrys possibilities. In the context of strengthening the security defence component of the EU Battle Group 2014, which is under Kingdom of Belgium leadership, the countrys declared forces should be fully ready for deployment in the second half of 2014. The country also participates in activities of the international community for fight against terrorism, WMD prevention and non-proliferation, cyber security and other emerging security threats. The Republic of Macedonia appreciates the support by the NATO Liaison Office in Skopje, and by the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey, which is NATOs contact point Embassy.
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There are preparations underway for the third phase of the Project for reconstruction of bridges and roads in the country, expected to be finalized by the end of 2014. Under the Macedonian Chairmanship of the US-Adriatic Charter, Foreign Ministers held a meeting of the Partnership Commission on 18 June 2013, in Skopje, marking the tenth anniversary of the Charter. Activities are undertaken to strengthen capacities for selection and training of civilian personnel for participation in NATO-led operations, particularly operations for stabilization and reconstruction in post conflict conditions, in line with the Partnership goal PC G3781. In pursuance with UNSCR 1325, the gender equality principle has been mainstreamed in the defence and security policy of the Republic of Macedonia and this has been reflected in the Gender Equality Strategy and accompanying National Action Plan. Of the 150 troops deployed in international operations in the 2002-2012 period, 5% were women. The military and civilian personnel of the Amy and of the Ministry of Defence attend gender sensitizing and gender mainstreaming trainings, as well as gender advisor training in training centres of Partnership countries.
1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

The Republic of Macedonia and the European Union have developed deep and intensive cooperation founded on the strategic goal of the Republic of Macedonia for its integration into the European Union. Taking into consideration the achievements of the Republic of Macedonia, the European Commission gave a recommendation for opening accession negotiations in October 2009, which was renewed in 2010, 2011 and in 2012. The last Progress Report of the European Commission (16 October 2013) once again reiterated the recommendation for start of accession negotiations with the Republic of Macedonia. The Commission considered that the start of the accession negotiations would have a positive impact to the reform process, that it would strengthen the inter-ethnic relations and would create a positive climate for a mutually acceptable solution to the name issue. The European Commission also stated that the further delay of the start of accession negotiations would call into question the credibility of the enlargement process of the European Union. In the Spring Report of April 2013, the Commission confirmed that the Republic of Macedonia continued to fulfil the Copenhagen criteria for start of accession negotiations, and that it undertook steps for improvement of the relations with neighbouring countries. In the absence of accession negotiations, the High Level Accession Dialogue (HLAD) between the Government and the EC, which started in March 2012, continued to maintain the pace of the EU related reforms. The key achievements are: decriminalization of defamation and offence, first comprehensive review of the implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement, improvement of the efficiency of the judiciary, public administration reforms, reforms of the electoral process and progress in strengthening market economy. The key immediate priority of Macedonia remains the start of accession negotiations without further delay. The Government will continue the reforms and meeting the standards for EU accession, while actively promoting good-neighbourly relations and regional cooperation. Furthermore, the Republic of Macedonia will continue to fully comply with obligations under the Stabilization and Association Agreement, which in April 2014 will meet the established 10-year implementation time frame. The Republic of Macedonia is a beneficiary country of the EU pre-accession assistance IPA (2007-2013). The EU will finalize the design of financial aid IPA 2 (2014-2020). The main goal is to support the countrys efforts in meeting the accession criteria and readiness to undertake the obligations arising from EU
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membership. In this context, the Government will continue to strengthen the institutional capacity for effective use of the assistance, as well as the internal coordination mechanisms, while ensuring a high degree of ownership and management of EU funds. The Republic of Macedonia continues to progressively harmonize with and participate in the Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union and continues to align itself with the joint declarations, statements and positions of the European Union. The Foreign Security and Defence Policy, in continuity, are among the best assessed chapters under the Commission Reports. (Preparations are well advanced). The Agreement with the EU on Macedonias participation in EU crisis management operations has been signed and entered into force. Macedonia continues to participate in the Operation EUFOR ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina with 11 troops, and contributes to the EU Battle Group 2014 EU BG. The dialogue with the EU on current issues under EUs foreign, security and defence policies will continue, at different levels and in various formats. Macedonia aligns with all autonomous EU restrictive measures against third countries, entities and individuals. The Coordination Body monitoring the implementation of international restrictive measures will continue its coordination activities aiming at attaining efficiency in implementing the measures.
1.3.STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS UN, OSCE, COUNCIL OF EUROPE
The Republic of Macedonia considers that multilateralism is one of the key instruments for promotion of the fundamental values of peace, democracy, human rights and development. In this context, the main goal is to enhance the activities of the Republic of Macedonia within the UN, by promoting policies based on the fundamental values of this Organization. The Republic of Macedonia is focused on increasing its participation in UN peace operations, as well as on enhancing its capacities to provide humanitarian and development assistance. The Republic of Macedonia will focus on the following priority issues on the agenda of the 68th UN General Assembly: strengthening the role of the UN in conflict prevention, in preserving and strengthening peace; UN reform; implementation of the Millennium Development Goals; disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation; strengthening the role of the International Criminal Court; fight against terrorism; climate change; respect for and protection of human rights and strengthening the role of the Human Rights Council; promoting the role and participation of women; the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, and strengthening the role of youth. The Republic of Macedonia will continue to fulfil its reporting obligations in the human rights area, as well as in the area of arms control and disarmament. The Republic of Macedonia expects to be elected a member of the Human Rights Council for the 20142016 period. Elections will be held on 12 November, 2013, in New York. The Republic of Macedonia will also work to strengthen its position within the OSCE, promoting itself as a country that consistently implements the commitments under the political-military, economic and human dimensions of this organization, being also actively involved in on-going debates for OSCE reform. The country will further pursue its commitment to enhanced participation of Macedonian representatives in OSCE field missions, as well as in OSCE/ODIHR election monitoring missions. In the period from September to December 2012, the Republic of Macedonia chaired the OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation. In addition to regular topics on the agenda of the Forum, the Macedonian Chairmanship focused on the regional dimension of security issues.
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The cooperation with the OSCE Mission in the Republic of Macedonia will continue with the purpose of completing joint projects and with a view to downsizing the Mission in line with the realistic needs, while focusing on the jointly set priorities and the progress in the process of EU integration. Implementing and promoting the Council of Europe principles and standards, and strengthening the cooperation with expert monitoring bodies of the Council of Europe, remain the countrys priorities in the coming period. Macedonia attaches great importance to the continuation of the reform of the European Court of Human Rights.
1.4.STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES

In pursuance with commitments to building relations of good-neighbourliness, security, stability and cooperation in Southeast Europe, the Republic of Macedonia is continually and actively involved in activities under the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), the Central European Initiative (CEI), and the Regional SELEC Centre in Bucharest. The Republic of Macedonia chaired the Southeast European Cooperation Process in the period from June 2012 to June 2013. The Macedonian Chairmanship was aimed at strengthening and accelerating the cooperation under this initiative. Choosing the motto Solidarity in Action, the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship pursued its political commitments to deepening regional cooperation, which was endorsed in the political Declaration the SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affair adopted (in Ohrid, on 31 May 2013), by which the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship was completed. The Republic of Macedonia is also actively involved in the MARRI Regional Centre in Skopje, participating in activities dealing with asylum, migrations and refugees. In the SELEC context, the cooperation continues at the level of Ministries of the Interior/police forces and customs administrations with a view to preventing all forms of cross-border crime.
1.5. ADVANCEMENT OF GOOD-NEIGHBOURLY RELATIONS

The Republic of Macedonia is strongly committed to friendship, open partnership relations and comprehensive cooperation with countries in its immediate neighbourhood (Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Kosovo and Serbia), pursuing in this respect the principle of mutual trust and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all countries in the Region and the interest in fully-fledged Euro-Atlantic integration of the regional countries. Aiming at intensifying political contacts and deepening the cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, upon the initiative of the Republic of Macedonia, on 3 June 2013, in Belgrade, there was the first joint session of the Governments of the Republic of Macedonia and of the Republic of Serbia, while on 28 July 2013, in Kustendil, there was a working meeting between the Governments of the Republic of Macedonia and of the Republic of Bulgaria. It should be underlined that despite the world economic and financial crisis, there has been an increase in the economic cooperation with countries in the immediate neighbourhood, in which respect new markets and forms of cooperation have been found. The focus in this respect is on attaining infrastructure and energy interconnectivity among regional countries. The shared commitments in this respect have resulted in the opening of a new border crossing between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Albania. The Joint Contact Centre for Police Cooperation between Macedonia and Albania started its work, as well. In June 2013, the Ministers of the Interior of
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the Republic of Macedonia and of the Republic of Kosovo signed the Agreement on the opening of a new border crossing for international road transportation between the two countries. The Republic of Macedonia continually raises initiatives for intensification of the political dialogue and contacts with the Hellenic Republic, as well as for intensification of the UN brokered process for finding a mutually acceptable solution to the name issue in accordance with international law and UN SC Resolution 817. The Republic of Macedonia remains consistently committed to advancing goodneighbourly relations, strengthening mutual trust and respect and to deepening the cooperation with the Hellenic Republic, in all areas of mutual interest.
INTERNAL POLICY
1.6.ADVANCEMENT OF POLITICAL DIALOGUE BY STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
The Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia is strongly and continually committed to active political dialogue of all political groups having representatives at the Assembly, both on current issues, and on the major national strategic goals, such as the countrys integration into the EU and NATO, which is supported by a nation-wide consensus. As it is known, the Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia convenes regular coordination meetings with Deputy Speakers and Coordinators of Political Groups at the Assembly. As thus far, the Assembly will focus its activities on strengthening the legislative, supervisory and representative functions of the Assembly, then on further advancement of the political dialogue, on development of the e-Parliament capacities, improving the transparency in its work, being focused as well on enhancing the Assembly financial autonomy, developing the research capacities of the Assembly and on continual professional advancement of the Assembly services.
1.7. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OHRID FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT

The Secretariat for the Implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement, in cooperation with other relevant institutions, prepared a ten-year report on the degree of implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement. The Report covers all relevant areas: equitable representation of all ethnic communities, use of languages, decentralization, integrated education and non-discrimination. In the 2012-2013 period, there were three job advertisements for employment of persons belonging to non-majority communities in the Republic of Macedonia. 382 people were recruited. The Government adopted the 2013 Program for employment of persons belonging to communities, which is the basic plan of the Secretariat to enhance equitable representation in public administration. The Program envisages 450 new jobs, which will be announced in 2013 periodically for all groups of civil servants. According to the Program, in 2013, one job advertisement was published for recruitment of 258 persons belonging to minority communities and the recruitment procedure has been completed. 192 job openings remain to be filled in 2013. The cooperation with the OSCE mission on training of newly recruited civil continues. Thus, there have been trainings organized for newly recruited civil servants on issues related to equitable representation and public administration reforms. The Secretariat signed an Agreement on a project funded by the UK Government for training of 120 translators that work in state administration bodies, as well as for building a system for education of
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future translators in the country. The first phase of the Project was completed with an analysis of existing capacities and based on the analysis results there will be a program of training courses prepared for professional advancement.
1.8. Advancement of public administration reforms

There are activities underway for implementation of activities under the 2010-2015 Public Administration Reform Strategy. The Government has also adopted a Revised Action Plan, accompanying the Public Administration Reform Strategy. With a view to advancing the legislative framework for public administration employees, a Law on Administration is drafted, envisaging novelties that are to improve the countrys administration system. In 2013, amendments were adopted on three occasions to laws on civil servants and employees in the public sector. The key benefit of these amendments is enhanced mobility of public sector employees. Following the adoption of the Strategy for drafting a new Law on General Administrative Procedure, a working group was established, which started drafting the text of the new Law in the second quarter of the year. The activities for drafting the Law are under way. The new Law is aimed at enhancing citizens rights in administrative procedures and at facilitating fulfilment of obligations towards state institutions. The Law on Ex-officio Collection and Exchange of Evidence and Data was adopted in mid 2013. This Law regulates the procedure for ex-officio evidence and data collection and exchange between the central and local government bodies. At the beginning of 2013, the Quality Barometer methodology was adopted, aimed at establishing a system for uniform standard measurement of the quality of work of institutions. The first pilot stage pursued in 2013 includes 9 institutions. The Law Introducing Quality Management System and Common Assessment of the Work and Service Delivery by the Civil Service was adopted in the first half of 2013. Under the Interoperability Project, procedures have been designed that regulate electronic data exchange, as well as applying for new services, service upgrade and termination, as well as mutual agreements between institutions. The Electronic Learning System or the learning management system is now implemented, which is aimed at providing a relevant learning platform accessible to all civil servants anytime and anywhere. The procedure for establishment of an Electronic Human Resource Management System in the administration is underway. There is a system under which natural persons can electronically file their tax returns. The E-Reminder project is now implemented. This is an automated electronic system notifying citizens about deadlines to service their obligations for certain administrative services. In 2011, the Inter-Ministerial Working Group, set up by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, started preparing a new Law on Media and Audiovisual Media Services. Taking into account the importance of legal regulation of media, it is of crucial importance to ensure complete transparency and inclusiveness in the process of drafting of this Law. The European Union provided TAIEX technical support in drafting this Law, through organization of several TAIEX missions, workshops and public hearings. The legal framework was discussed at a number of open public hearings, and it was posted at the website of the Single National Regulation Registry (www.ener.gov.mk) enabling relevant stakeholders to give their comments.
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After consultations with all stakeholders, and after receiving new comments from the Council of Europe and the OSCE, it was concluded that it was necessary to regulate the area of media and of audiovisual media services by adoption of two laws: the Law on Media and the Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services. By the end of July, the two Draft Laws were submitted to the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. The Assembly Committees considered the two draft Laws and decided to accept them and forward them for further consideration and for second reading at the Assembly. In the period from 20 to 23 August 2013, the relevant Committees of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia had amendment debates in respect of the two draft Laws. The Draft Law on Media envisages the basic principles and conditions that are to be met by media publishers (broadcasters, printed media publishers or electronic publication producers) for performing their activities. The Draft Law on Media has been completely harmonized with the documents and standards of the Council of Europe and of the OSCE in terms of ensuring freedom of expression and freedom of the media. The Draft Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services has provisions regulating the rights, duties and responsibilities of broadcasters, providers of audiovisual media services on demand, public electronic communication services that transmit or re-transmit broadcasters programs. The Draft Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services has completely incorporated the 2010/13/EU Directive for audiovisual media services.
1.9. ADVANCEMENT OF JUSTICE SYSTEM REFORMS

Aiming at further strengthening the independence and increasing the efficiency of the judiciary, there are activities underway for implementation of laws adopted in the area of the judiciary. In the context the above referred to activities, there is basic training organized for the fifth generation of candidates for judges and public prosecutors at the Academy for Training of Judges and Public Prosecutors. Furthermore, the basic training will be particularly focused on the EU acquis and international standards. In addition, the training will especially take into consideration the practical aspects and specialization of candidates for judges and public prosecutors even at this early stage of the training. The Academy for Training of Judges and Public Prosecutors will further pursue the continual training for judges and public prosecutors, especially for implementation of international standards, continuously organizing as well trainings on specialized topics in the area of civil procedure, commercial law, bankruptcy law etc. In the context of independence of the judiciary, activities will be aimed at implementation of legal provisions relating to the career merit based system for promotion of judges, then application of new provisions for disciplinary responsibility and for establishing malfeasance in the work of judges by introducing objective and measurable criteria, increasing transparency in the work of courts and implementing the new system of assessment of judges using objective quantitative and qualitative criteria. Particular attention will be paid to the implementation of the new Law on Criminal Procedure (which will be applied as of 1 December 2013). This Law introduces a completely new system of criminal procedure, and fully rearranges the method of conducting investigations, the competences for which now are now transferred from the existing investigative judges to public prosecutors; in addition new institutes have been introduced-justice police and investigative centres at Public Prosecutors Offices, the method of conducting the main hearing is redefined as well as the system of legal remedies.
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The Law regulates rights and obligations of the Public Prosecutor that has a completely new role in the procedure and new positioning before courts, as well as in relation to the justice police and the other bodies with investigative competences. The competences of public prosecutors and their leading role in detection and prosecution of crimes are regulated in detail. The greatest novelties in the pre-trial procedure introduced with this Law are the newly defined relations between the public prosecutor and the police, the establishment of justice police and investigative centres at the Public Prosecutors Offices. The Law on Civil Law Liability for Defamation and Offence and the Law amending the Criminal Code were adopted in December 2012, with the aim of strengthening the media freedom. The above mentioned laws introduced decriminalization of defamation and offence, as well as decriminalization of most of criminal offences against the honour and reputation. Thus, liability for offence and defamation is considered under a civil law procedure. It is particularly important to emphasize that the Law on Civil Liability for Defamation and Offence incorporates the standards prescribed in Article 10 of the European Human Rights and standards set under the case law of the European Human Rights Court. Furthermore, the Law contains a provision, which prescribes that the above mentioned standards take precedence over domestic provisions. The Academy for Training of Judges and Public Prosecutors continually organizes obligatory training about principles of the European Human Rights Convention. Furthermore, the Academy has introduced the practice of making records of the implementation of the Law on Civil Liability for Defamation and Offence by judges, in conjunction with Article 10 of the European Human Rights Convention. As regards statistics on work of courts, priority is attached to the implementation of the adopted Methodology on Court Statistics. In this regard, a software application has been designed which enables collection, processing and analysis of statistics about work of courts. This system will particularly contribute to improving the planning of work of courts and it will help measure the efficiency of work of courts, based on the eleven indicators defined under the above referred to Methodology on Court Statistics. Future activities for improving the efficiency of the judiciary involve projects for electronic delivery of writs and audio recording of court hearings. Furthermore, there will be activities focusing on the work of enforcement officers and notaries public, following their taking over old enforceable and final judgements from courts. In areas of expert witnesses and damage appraisals, activities are aimed at enhancing the quality of expert witness work and appraisals, by advancing professional competences of expert witnesses and appraisers. In this context, activities are continually implemented for organizing exams for expert witnesses and appraisers, as well as for issuance of relevant licenses and establishing the required registers. Activities for implementation of information technology in the judiciary will continue in the period from 2013 to 2015. The process of introducing information technology will also cover the public prosecutors offices, which is planned to ultimately result in linking the IT systems of courts and public prosecutors offices.
1.10. ElectION LEGISLATION

In the first half of 2013, the State Election Commission organized regular local elections. Local elections were conducted with a consolidated Voters List in which according to the Electoral Code only citizens who possess valid biometric personal identification cards and passports were entered. The Voters List was consolidated in pursuance with OSCE/ODIHR recommendations following the early parliamentary elections in 2011 for revision of the Voters List, i.e. removing deceased people and people residing in other countries from the Voters List. The revision of the Voters List was supported by political parties and this was noted in the OSCE/ODIHR Final Report about the local elections.
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In line with envisaged post-election activities, after the local elections, the State Election Commission prepared and adopted a Report about the 2013 Local Elections and submitted it to the Assembly of Republic of Macedonia. Furthermore, in cooperation with the OSCE Mission in Skopje, after the elections, the State Election Commission organized four regional workshops for the municipality election commissions to analyze the conducted local elections. The workshop topics were identification of good practices and challenges, promotion of positive aspects of the organization of the elections and proposing solutions in the area where deficiencies were established. The State Election Commission this year will implement the following activities which are to contribute to a more efficient updating of the Voters List: Development and implementation of methodology for examination of the Voters List which can be used for regular checks of the Voters List accuracy; and Analysis of the system for exchange of information between institutions which provide data for the Voters List, with a view to the Voters List improvement. These activities will be implemented by the Working Group on the Voters List, which is chaired by the State Election Commission, in cooperation with and support from the OSCE Mission in Skopje. Furthermore, the activities of the State Election Commission in the 2013-2014 period will be focused on preparation, organization, and evaluation of the regular presidential elections in March 2014. In accordance with the Electoral Code, the Speaker of the Assembly of Republic of Macedonia is expected to adopt a decision announcing the presidential elections at the end of 2013 or at the beginning of 2014.
1.11. police reform Priorities

The preparation of the 2014- 2016 Strategic Plan enabled the Ministry of the Interior (MoI) to design adequate policies and programs that ensure most efficient use of resources for attainment of priorities and goals, thus improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the implementation of the MoI polices, as well as the evaluation and transparency of spending the limited budgetary funds (The Strategic Plan is expected to be adopted at the beginning of October 2013). The police reform process will be completed by fulfilling obligations under the amendments to the Law on Criminal Procedure; designing a contemporary model of police organization; introduction of new methods of work of the police; strengthening the principle of rule of law; enhancing the protection of and respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms; strengthening the material-technical and staff capacities. The trust of all communities in the police is enhanced by pursuance of the following activities: developing partnership relations between citizens and the police, and application of the community policing principle; designing a transparent public relations system; finalization of equitable representation of all communities in the police; strengthening police capacities for work with persons with special needs (children, women, victims of domestic violence). Public security and administrative capacities for fight against cross-border crime and corruption are advanced through efficient and effective prevention of all types of crime; reduction of the crime rate by defining short-term and mid-term deadlines; increased efficiency in preventing and detecting of criminal activities; enhanced personal safety of citizens and security of property; efficient and effective maintenance of the public peace and order; improved road traffic safety and reduction of the traffic accidents rate and alleviation of ensuing consequences; strengthened control of the state border and preventing illegal migration; improvement of the general health and psycho-physical fitness of police officers; standardization of the equipment used by the police for performance of police duties.
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The efficiency in the fight against terrorism and in protecting the national security is improved by pursuing contemporary sophisticated measures and activities for detecting the organizers, the perpetration and logistics of terrorist activities; established efficient exchange of information about terrorist groups and their support networks.
1.12.Normative and institutional measures in the fight against organiZed crime and corruption
One of the key goals of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia is repressing organized crime and corruption. For this purpose, activities in the period from 2013 to 2015 will be focused on the application and implementation of new institutes established under the criminal legislation, primarily institutes of extended confiscation, confiscation of direct and indirect property gains, confiscation of third persons property, and illicit enrichment, and there will be training for all entities in the system for fight against corruption. Furthermore, particular attention will be given to the application of the new Law on Criminal Procedure (which will be applied as of 1 December 2013), under which one of the key novelties is the transfer of investigation competences from courts to public prosecutors offices. The amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption, which are now drafted, will help strengthen protection of persons reporting cases of corruption, and will help better regulate the issue of integrity, by strengthening the capacities of institutions for repressing corruption, in accordance with international standards. The Inter-ministerial body for coordination of the activities against corruption continues to convene regular meetings. As part of its activities this Inter-ministerial body monitors: the work of the Working Group tasked with the preparation of a Statistical methodology for monitoring the anticorruption policy, then the implementation of the State Programme for prevention and repression of corruption and prevention and reducing conflict of interest by the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption, as well as the implementation of the Council of Europe GRECO recommendations. Hence, with a view to implementing the remaining recommendations under the III Round of evaluation relating to the issue of incriminations, the Law amending the Criminal Code was adopted on 26 December 2012, which abrogates the possibility to return the bribe to the bribe giver, while regarding recommendations relating to transparency in financing of political parties, the Law amending the Electoral Code was adopted on 13 November 2012, and the Law amending the Law on Financing of Political Parties was adopted on 13 November 2012. Four stages of the Draft Statistical Methodology have been prepared and adopted by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia. The single methodology helps set up a relevant statistical system for monitoring cases of corruption their processing by involved institutions, starting from their detection to their final resolving. This system also helps monitor the implementation of the anticorruption policy, i.e. strategies, projects, reforms etc. Under this system data will be centralized at the national level. The continual cooperation with GRECO continues. All activities aimed at implementation of the remaining recommendations under the III Round of evaluation have been undertaken, and it is expected that the successful implementation of the recommendations will be taken note of in the II Compliance Report under the III round of evaluation of the Republic of Macedonia, expected to be adopted in November 2013. The Report under the IV Round of evaluation is envisaged to be adopted by GRECO in December 2013. In the context of the Program for Strengthening of the Capacities of the Centre for Suppression of Organized and Serious Forms of Crime it is envisaged to pursue measures and activities aimed at prevention and detection of offences and perpetrators of organized crime. The aims of the Program are efficient and effective countering corruption and organized crime, as well as enhancing the
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professionalism and modernization of the Centre for Suppression of Organized and Serious Forms of Crime. The activities require a high level of specialization for performance of specific and complex tasks against corruption and organized crime in an efficient and cost effective manner. The Program envisages activities for the establishment of a National Intelligence Database, preparation of legislation and by-laws, implementation of the Law on Criminal Procedure, establishment of database for criminal investigations of serious and organized crime, establishment of a database for the Criminal Intelligence Department, formation of organizational units tasked with implementing the criminal intelligence process (intelligence managers and local intelligence officers), implementation of the Action Plan of the National Commission against Trafficking in Human Beings and Migrant Smuggling, implementation of the Action Plan for the adopted National Strategy on the Fight against Corruption, Money Laundering, Cybercrime and Forgeries, preparation of a database for counterfeit money, implementation of the Action Plan for the National Strategy for Fight against Trafficking in Drugs, Small and Light Weapons. The Program also envisages activities that are aimed at strengthening the overall capacities for fight against organized forms of crime and at ensuring preconditions for objective long term maintenance of these capacities. As an important part of the state administration, the Skopje Basic Public Prosecutors Office for Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption continues undertaking activities aimed at fighting organized crime and corruption in the country. The Public Prosecutors Office is preparing for application of the new Law on Criminal Procedure. In addition, the systematization of jobs at the Basic Public Prosecutors Office for Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption has been expanded. Under the Rulebook Amending the Rulebook on Organization and Systematization of Jobs at Public Prosecutors Offices, 16 administrative staff will be employed. In the context of international cooperation, the Basic Public Prosecutors Office for Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption actively implements the Second Additional Protocol to the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters and regularly directly communicates and cooperates with prosecution authorities of the neighbouring countries and of European Union Member-States for purposes of collecting evidence, facilitating international legal assistance procedures and conducting joint and coordinated investigations with relevant authorities. In addition to competences for fight against corruption, defined by law, the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption (SCPC) also has the competence of preparing and adopting State Programmes for Prevention and Repression of Corruption and Conflict of Interest, as well as competences for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of measures and activities set forth under the Action Plan. In order to establish a sustainable and complementary system for prevention and repression of corruption and conflict of interest, the 2011 2015 State Programmes define 11 sectors in which risks and problems with corruption and conflict of interests are most evident, identifying as well activities and measures to overcome problems and risks in each sector. The Programs also identify indicators for monitoring the implementation of activities, agencies and institutions responsible for the implementation of certain activities, time-bound priorities, and indicators to measure the impact to undertaken activities. The SCPC evaluates activities twice a year and informs relevant institutions about its findings. In addition to the responsibility for enforcement of the Law for the Prevention ofCorruption, the SCPS is also responsible for implementation of the Law for the Prevention of Conflict of Interest.1 This Law was
1
The implementation of the Law for the Prevention of Conflict of Interest has demonstrated that it is necessary to establish mechanisms for keeping records of and monitor the conflict of interest of officials. Thus, in 2009, the obligation for filing a declaration of conflict
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adopted in 2007 and its amendments were adopted in 2009 and in 2012, respectively. These amendments expand the competences of the SCPC. Thus, in line with the Regulation on examining the contents of the declarations of interest, in 2012, the SCPC started checking the contents of the declarations.2 This systematic examination of the declarations of interests enables more efficient relevant reaction by the SCPC in case of violation of the Law. The examining the declarations of interests has resulted in institution of proceedings against officials for violation of the Law on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest, as well as in institution of misdemeanour proceedings before competent courts against officials that have not filed declarations of interest. In addition to these activities, the SCPC pursues its regular activities for processing cases, as well as activities for receiving, making records of and publishing information relating to declarations of assets of elected and appointed officials, while organizing trainings for countering corruption, conflict of interest and on the issue of integrity, and developing specific projects for prevention of corruption and conflict of interest.
1.13. MEDIA: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

The Broadcasting Council of the Republic of Macedonia, as the competent independent regulatory body in the broadcasting area, works to ensure freedom of expression in broadcasting and diversity of programs offered and to protect media ownership pluralism. In this context, the Broadcasting Council oversees the consistent implementation of the Law on Broadcasting, having in mind that the independence of media is achieved through proper regulation of the market and through implementation of relevant laws. Freedom of expression and protection of pluralism are covered by several legislative provisions starting with regulating the ownership structure (Article 11) over to provisions that regulate issues of establishing unlawful media concentration, changes in the broadcasters ownership structure, media outlets obligation for transparency of ownership and sources of funding (Articles 12 to 30 of the Law on Broadcasting), and finally provisions on the principles on which radio and television programs are to be based (Article 68). The Council regularly monitors the compliance of program contents with the program principles and supervises the proper implementation of legal provisions on media ownership and media concentration.3
of interest was prescribed. This obligation applies to all elected and appointed officials, civil servants and other employees in state institutions, judiciary, local government and other public institutions.
2
Elected and appointed officials submit their declarations with the SCPC, while civil servants file their declarations with the institution where they are employed. These amendments have not resolved the issue of examining the content of declaration, which was noted as a deficiency. Therefore, relevant amendments to the Law were adopted in 2012. Only declarations of conflict of interest submitted to the SCPC are examined regularly. This applies to all newly submitted statements, while the content of declarations submitted before the amendments to the Law are examined annually in accordance with the envisaged plan and dynamic of activities. The results of the fifth consecutive Analysis covering the period from 1 January to 30 June 2013 are as follows: In the first half of 2013, 11 broadcasters changed their ownership structure, all of which possessing local broadcasting licenses. Three of them were radio stations and the other eight were television stations. A total of ten broadcasters changed their ownership structure in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Broadcasting and only one broadcaster changed the ownership structure without filing a prior request for approval by the Broadcasting Council, for which the broadcaster was sanctioned with a written reprimand. In 2013, unlawful media concentration has been established in a total of three broadcasters: one satellite television, one radio station with national coverage and one local radio station. The satellite television has settled the problem of unlawful media concentration, by aligning its operations with provisions of the Law on Broadcasting. The deadline for compliance of the two radio stations with relevant legal provisions expired in August 2013. There is high degree of fulfilment of obligations by broadcasters for transparency of ownership and sources of funding. A total of 132 broadcasters, including all television and radio stations with national and regional coverage, published the required data.
3 a
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Having in mind the need for undertaking activities for promotion of media pluralism in the country and for advancement of a non-discriminatory and transparent media access, the Broadcasting Council adopted a Manual on the establishment of market conditions for sustainable economic growth in the media industry and fair competition and a Manual for assessing media pluralism (internal media pluralism).
1.14. Countering New Security Challenges

1.14.1. FIGHT AGaINST TERRORISM
In the coming period, the Republic of Macedonia will continue to actively participate in the fight against terrorism with all its available capacities. In this respect, relevant institutions will continue to consistently undertake planned and coordinated security and intelligence measures and activities to deal with international terrorism threats and the ever growing radicalism. The Directorate for Security and Counterintelligence makes efforts to raise its operational capabilities and respond to all threats to the security of the Republic of Macedonia, especially the threat of terrorism, by continually analysing and upgrading its professional structure and by strengthening its structural capacities. With a view to providing a relevant response to new security challenges and to improving the quality of work of the Directorate for Security and Counterintelligence, the Directorate has a new organizational structure, which aims to facilitate enhanced coordination of activities and to strengthen efficiency of its organizational units. In this regard, several specialized trainings for employees of the Directorate have been organized on issues relating to the performance of competences of this body. There are ongoing activities for implementation of the National Strategy of the Republic of Macedonia on Countering Terrorism, in which respect an Inter-Ministerial working group has been established composed of representatives of all relevant state authorities, tasked with the design of an Action Plan to implement measures and activities envisaged in the Strategy. By adopting this strategic document, the Republic of Macedonia supports the fundamental goals and principles set out in major counterterrorism documents adopted by the UN, the EU and NATO, and aligns itself with the EU Common Security and Defence Policy, i.e. it supports the four pillars of the fight against terrorism by all European countries that are envisaged in EU Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The National Strategy also takes into account contemporary risks and threats to the national security arising from terrorism, the countrys surrounding environment and from other circumstances that threaten or may affect the countrys security, peaceful and smooth functioning of the democratic system institutions and the countrys capabilities to deal with terrorist and threats of all types. In accordance with its legal obligations, the Directorate for Security and Counterintelligence will continue to regularly submit its annual reports and work programs to the in-line Committee at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. One of the strategic objectives in the coming period will be to strengthen the on-going cooperation at the regional and international level with intelligence and security services of other countries, including NATO and other international institutions. It is also planned to continue developing mechanisms for exchange of intelligence information between security and intelligence services with a view to monitoring, detecting, analyzing and disrupting threats of terrorism.
Three local radio stations partially fulfilled this obligation, while six local broadcasters did not published any data (two televisions and four radio stations).
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1.14.2.INFORMATION SECURITY
The Republic of Macedonia continues to upgrade its capacities for fight against cybercrime, in line with the Law on Criminal Procedure and the Criminal Code, as well as in pursuance with provisions of the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime. The established contact point for cybercrime is fully operational 24/7 for the purpose of prompt collection of electronic evidence, exchanging information and conducting joint investigations with other Signatory States to the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime. There is an initiative underway for the adoption of a National Cyber Security Strategy, which envisages activities in four areas: developing the concept of cyber security, anti-cybercrime measures and activities, establishing a cyber attack prevention system and managing cyber incidents. The Strategy is expected to facilitate institutional cooperation, and prevention of and dealing with cyber security incidents. Initial feasibility studies have been prepared on the establishment of a National Cybercrime Research Centre, which could be transformed into a regional centre in the future. The National Centre would link the relevant anti-cybercrime capacities in the private sector, the industry, universities and agencies responsible for enforcing the relevant laws in the Republic of Macedonia.
1.14.3.ENERGy SEcuRITy
The Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia has adopted the Law amending the Law on Energy in order to harmonize this Law with the Law on Concessions and Public Private Partnership and in order to more precisely regulate the issue of energy efficiency. In accordance with the amendments to the Law on Energy, the Minister of Economy has adopted a Rulebook on Energy Features of Buildings and a Rulebook on Energy Control. There are activities underway for further liberalization of the electricity market in the Republic of Macedonia. The Government of Republic of Macedonia has adopted a Program for implementation of the 2013 2017 Energy Development Strategy. The construction of the hydro-electric power plant Boskov Most is expected to start to the end of 2013. It will have installed capacity of 68 MW, while the total investment will be about EUR 107 million. Bids for construction works and for equipment are now considered. Until August 2013, 16 small hydro power plants were constructed, while to the end of 2013 and in 2014 another 14 small hydro power plants will be constructed. Considering the need for development of the natural gas distribution network in the Republic of Macedonia, in April 2013, the Ministry of Transport and Communications published a public procurement bid for a Feasibility Study for development of the natural gas distribution network in the Republic of Macedonia. The selected company undertook the obligation that the Feasibility Study would be finished until April 2014. In July 2013, the Government of Republic of Macedonia and the Government of the Russian Federation signed an Agreement on the inclusion of the Republic of Macedonia in the South Stream pipeline. The project for construction of a South Stream pipeline branch (which will be coming from the territory of Serbia) in Republic of Macedonia is of strategic interest to the country in terms of providing long-term energy stability.
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1.14.4.ENVIRONMENTaL SEcuRITy
The Republic of Macedonia is actively involved in protection and advancement of the environment, by implementing its National Strategies, Programmes and Plans aimed at attaining EU standards for quality of the environment, nature and sustainable development. The legal framework allows for integration of the environmental policy into other sector policies; provision of information about the environment, nature and various areas and access thereto; public participation in decision-making about the environment; and active following and implementation of international policies, standards and systems for the environment, nature, areas and SIS, thus increasing the public awareness and public education about rights and obligations with regard to the environment, nature and area protection; institutional and administrative capacity building for environmental and nature protection and spatial planning; increase of the volume of environmental investments and promotion of international cooperation. The Republic of Macedonia has pursued important activities related to environmental security through continual implementation of the National Strategy for Sustainable Development and National Strategy for Waters. The III National Communication on Climate Change Adaptation, accompanied with an Action Plan, has been completed. These documents are expected to be endorsed by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia to the end of 2013.
1.14.5.CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION

The Republic of Macedonia remains active in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The country participates in the work of the Regional Centre of Excellence for Southeast Europe, South Caucasus, Moldova and Ukraine, which is pursued in cooperation with the European Commission and the UN Research Institute for Inter-Regional Crime and Justice - UNICRI. The initiative aims to reduce risks and prevent threats from chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear (CBRN) materials and devices. The National CBRN Coordination Body was established in June 2012, tasked with strengthening the national system for prevention, risk reduction and protection against chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear weapons and materials, as well as with better coordination of activities and processes in this field. This body will develop an Action Program for the implementation of Resolution 1540 of the UN Security Council. In December 2010, the Republic of Macedonia started activities for membership of the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the beginning of 2011 sent a letter to the President Plenum in order to accelerate the process of accession of the Republic of Macedonia in the Wassenaar Arrangement, while asking for inclusion of the Republic of Macedonia in the program of the WA Outreach Group as an intermediary stage before full membership. In the coming period, the Government is expected to adopt a formal decision to seek membership in the Wassenaar Arrangement.
1.14.6. CONTROL OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS

The National Commission for Small Arms and Light Weapons continually pursues its primary activities in accordance with the National Strategy for Small Arms and Light Weapons and the Action Plan. In coordination with the competent services at the Ministry of the Interior, the National Commission for Small Arms and Light Weapons has started implementing the amendments and supplements to the Law on Weapons. These new amendments and supplements to the Law on Weapons are aimed at increasing the security and safety of citizens.
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In the 2013 2014 period, it is planned to connect legal persons authorized for trade in arms and weapons on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia in a single system within the Ministry of the Interior in order to increase the control of the trade in arms and weapons. The system comprises tracing of arms and weapons, ammunition and parts of weapons from their entry in the Republic of Macedonia to the final user. This will upgrade the existing electronic system for records keeping of issued weapon permits to legal and natural persons. In cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and other state bodies, the National Commission for Small Arms and Light Weapons also works on the prevention and elimination of proliferation of illegal weapons and on control of legally possessed weapons in accordance with the national legislation. Representatives of regional units of the Ministry of the Interior have been actively involved in the establishment and work of local prevention councils. During meetings with Advisory groups of citizens at local self-government units, citizens will be informed about the dangerous consequences arising from the use of weapons. These preventive concepts are intended to improve the efficiency and cooperation between the police and citizens in the fight against and prevention of violence perpetrated with use of weapons. Pursuing its regular activities for destruction of found, seized, confiscated and obsolete arms and weapons, taken over from first instance courts on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, following court judgements adopted after completed criminal or misdemeanour proceedings, and aiming at reducing the quantity of arms and weapons, in 2013, 265 pieces of different types of arms and weapons were destroyed by smelting. In cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Commission plans to further strengthen the coordination with the NATO /SALW Advisory Committee on exchange of experiences and information in the area of control and destruction of small arms and light weapons.
1.14.7. FIGHT AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN BEINGS AND ILLEGAL MIGRATION

The new 2013 2016 National Strategy and National Action Plan on Fight Against Trafficking in Human Beings and Illegal Migration (THB and IM) offer a precisely defined approach to reducing the vulnerability of risk groups and potential victims of THB, as well as appropriate mechanisms for overcoming problems, and a solid approach to rights of victims and their appropriate and efficient protection. In accordance with the National Action Plan, the priority activities of the National Commission for Fight against THB and IM in the 2013-2014 period will be focused on the prevention of THB, as one of the key aspects in the suppression of this chain of organized crime in society. The National Commission coordinates regular activities relating to: harmonization of the national legislative framework with the international legislative framework regarding THB and Smuggling of Migrants; regional meetings and study visits for exchange of good practices, while organizing regular meetings and pursuing cooperation with national coordinators, and providing better quality information for pupils (elementary school children) and students (secondary schools) about threats of THB. Furthermore, the National Commission implements activities for raising the awareness of vulnerable groups, organizes preventive activities at the local level and maintains an SOS telephone line for information and assistance to the vulnerable groups / potential victims of THB. Special attention is paid to the creation of mobile teams at the local level for identification of, assistance and support to potential victims and risk groups. In order to successfully participate in international investigations, the Ministry of the Interior regularly communicates with the SELEC Centre in Bucharest, Europol and Interpol.
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The Ministry of the Interior exchanges information and data with Southeast European countries regarding the fight against THB, for purposes of efficient criminal prosecution of perpetrators of THB, in line with concluded Memorandums of Understanding.
1.15. Improving the Crisis Management System

The development of the Crisis Management Centre is aimed at building the Crisis Management System of Republic of Macedonia, with relevant capacities and capabilities, based of high professionalism, commitment and readiness of individuals and entities, in order to ensure optimal conditions for safe living and working environment for citizens, and conditions for economic and social prosperity of the state. The legally defined mandate of the Crisis Management Centre envisages ensuring regular communication, consultations, and data exchange between and among relevant entities; operational readiness and interoperability of entities that are part of the system; coordinated management and overcoming of consequences of events and large scale phenomena. In this regard, in accordance with their competences the Crisis Management Centre and the Protection and Rescue Directorate have defined concrete activities and responsibilities in dealing with nation wide disasters and other hazards, which also includes interministerial communication and coordination. The Crisis Management Centre has presented its concrete program activities and strategic goals, in accordance with the Strategic Plan of the Centre for the 2013-2015 period, which will contribute to implementation of policies for disaster risk reduction in Republic of Macedonia. The implementation of activities in pursuance with priority goals is expected to strengthen the overall capacities of the Centre and of Crisis Management System, in order to achieve efficient protection of the well-being of the citizens, assets, natural, cultural goods and the countrys security in general.
1.16. Budget and Economy

1.16.1. BudGET OF THE REpubLIc Of MacEdONIa
The 2014 fiscal policy is aimed at maintaining the macroeconomic stability and fiscal sustainability, as well as at supporting the growth of the Macedonian economy. Such defined fiscal policy goals require further strict control over public finances, as well as continuous improvement of the quality of public expenditures through increased volume of capital investments. The total revenues in the Draft 2014 Budget are projected at the level of EUR 2,573 million (an increase of 6.9% compared to 2013), thereby maintaining low and unchanged tax rates. The total expenditures in the Draft 2014 Budget are projected in the amount of EUR 2,870 million (an increase of 6.5% compared to 2013), with a tendency for continuous improvement of their structure through increase of capital expenditures by 20% compared to the previous year. Such projected revenues and expenditures will result in a budget deficit of 3.5% of the GDP. Financial resources for the projected deficit will be provided from foreign sources (favourable credits from international financial institutions, World Bank Policy-Based Guarantees and credit lines for financing specific projects), as well as from domestic sources (issuance of government securities).
1.16.2. MACRO ECONOMY

The main macroeconomic scenario for the 2014-2016 period is based on expectations for low economic growth rates in the EU, but also on expectations for a more stable external surrounding during the
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analyzed period, realization of expected foreign direct investments, development of the economic infrastructure in the country and structural reforms, which contribute to enhanced competitiveness of the country. In the 2014-2016 period, the growth of economic activity in the Republic of Macedonia is expected to be 3.8% in average, with prospects for certain growth intensification. Thus, the economic growth in 2014 is expected to be 3, 2%, 3.8% in 2015 and 4.5% in 2016. The envisaged economic growth in the 2014-2016 period is expected to have positive effects on the labour market trends. According to the projections, 2.8% average annual increase of the number of employees is expected. In turn, this will result in a decline of the number of unemployed persons by 2.4% in average in the analyzed period. In the 2014-2016 period, the inflation rate is expected to be both low and stable. The inflation rate will be influenced by the trends in global prices of primary commodities. The inflation rate in 2014 is expected to be 3.3%, with prospects for slowdown of the price increase in the coming period. Thus, the inflation rate in 2015 is expected to be 2.7%, and 2.5% in 2016. The expected volume of foreign direct investments and projections for a moderate BOP current account deficit are factors that will result in a stable external position and keeping foreign currency reserves at an adequate level. A stable Denar exchange rate in relation to the euro will be maintained in the coming period as well, as a nominal anchor aimed at maintaining price stability, as the ultimate goal of the macroeconomic policy.
1.16.3. ECONOMIC PRIORITIES CREATING A FAVOURABLE BUSINESS CLIMATE AND PROMOTING COMPETITIVENESS
One of the key strategic priorities of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia for 2014 remains increasing the economic growth and competitiveness in the long run, higher employment rate, increase of the living standard and quality of life, which will be accomplished through attainment of several priority targets. The activities aimed at improving the business climate will continue, focused on further implementation of regulatory reforms (Regulatory Guillotine and evaluation of the impact of regulations - Regulatory Impact Assessment - RIA), then on simplification of procedures for doing business, removing barriers, and establishing a one-stop shop system for domestic and foreign investors. Other relevant activities will be further development of the dialogue with the business community, through increased activities of the National Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Council; implementing projects in direct communication with companies; implementation of the project Learning from the business community by visits to companies by government teams in order to learn their ideas and initiatives and to pursue other forms of communication and dialogue with chambers, associations and on individual basis. Since the launching of the project Learning from the business community in the period from 2012 until now, more than 500 companies have been visited. Encouraging competitiveness as a basis for sustainable economic growth will continue with further implementation of several strategic documents, action plans, programs and measures, aimed at developing small and medium enterprises, encouraging and promoting investments, and implementation of industrial policy, development of clusters, export promotion and increased support to innovations. The Republic of Macedonia focuses on supporting innovations as one of the main drivers of a competitive economy, through creation of an adequate environment for development and promotion of innovation activities. Several key documents have been adopted that pave the development path, such as: Innovation Strategy, Action Plan, Law on Innovation, followed by the establishment of a Fund for Innovations
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and technological development that will offer direct support to growth and expansion of companies through commercialization of innovations supported by grants, conditioned loans, equity investments. The Fund is expected to become functional in 2014.
1.16.4. TRADE LIBERALIZATION LIBERALIZATION OF MARKET SERVICES UNDER CEFTA 2006

Activities for assessment of potentials for launching negotiations for liberalization of trade in service sectors pursuant to Articles 27 and 29 of the CEFTA Agreement continued in 2012 and 2013. Member States have adopted a model for multilateral negotiations under the CEFTA. The Protocol on trading in services is the model for regulating the level of openness of services sectors in the Region. For CEFTA countries, the project envisages establishment of a database of regulations, at the beginning in the area of professional services that include: legal services, accounting services, architecture and engineering services. The analysis of data about the service sector are to show the advantages of liberalization in this sector compared to the regulatory framework of the CEFTA countries, as well the one of the OECD and EU countries. At this stage, CEFTA countries have agreed to analyze the degree of openness of the market in the following sectors: transport, construction and distribution services. In 2013 CEFTA member states agreed on the draft text of the Protocol on Trade in Services and it will be adopted by the CEFTA Joint Committee in November 2013. The negotiations for liberalization of services will start in November 2013. There is willingness for negotiations on liberalization of services primarily for business services, tourism and transport services, construction and distribution services, which have been designated as priority sectors. In accordance with the obligation arising from Article 35 of the Stabilization and Association Agreement between Macedonia and the EU, in 2013, there were two rounds of negotiations regarding the definition of the Protocol for extending the SAA in order to take into account the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the EU on 1 of July 2013. The Protocol reviews the existing concessions for agricultural - food products and fish that Macedonia and Croatia applied on a bilateral basis within the CEFTA. The signing of the Protocol by both sides will follow.
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CHAPTER II
DEFENCE AND MILITARY ISSUES
2. DEFENCE POLICY AND PLANS

The Ministry of Defence and the Army of the Republic of Macedonia have a long-term commitment to fulfilling the following strategic defence missions: Defence and protection of the territorial integrity and independence of the Republic of Macedonia; Participation in NATOs collective defence; Contribution to operations in the full spectrum of missions led by the UN, NATO and the EU; Protection of the wider interests of the Republic of Macedonia.
Guided by the general goal of continual development of the military capacities and capabilities for accomplishment of strategic defence missions, the country is currently in a process of updating the 2014 2023 Long-Term Defence Development Plan (LTDDP), and accordingly prepares a plan for equipping and modernization of the Army. The new LTDDP is planned to be approved by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia to the end of 2013. The document contains a vision for a 10-year period defence development, then priorities for pursuing the defence policy, the defence budget necessary for accomplishing the set priorities and long-term development goals for development and improvement of the military capabilities of the Army and the capacities of the Ministry of Defence.
2.1.
TRANSFORMATION OF THE ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Army of Republic of Macedonia (ARM) have undergone a radical transformation over the last nine years and have considerably increased their institutional capacities and military capabilities. The transformation will enable further development and maintenance of deployable interoperable forces and capabilities at the level of 50% of the overall ARM land force, as well as manning in compliance with the standards for unit operational efficiency, which requires a minimum of 90% equipping and manning with professional military personnel. For participation in NATO-led operations, the ARM is developing and maintaining one Medium infantry battalion group, as the highest form of participation. The transformation of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia is aimed at concentrating the human and material resources and capacities, improving the efficiency of the command and control system and developing new capacities and capabilities required for execution of strategic defence missions. Interoperability is the key factor for successful participation in joint international operations and
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therefore the implementation of NATO recommendations and the Partnership Goals have a high priority in developing the Army capabilities and capacities. The MoD modernization and transformation will continue in coordination with the ARM modernization and transformation.
2.2.
HUMAN RESOURCES (HR)
The transformation of the human resource management system at the MoD and the ARM will ensure a continuous planning process and adequate manning of the MoD and the Army. The national strategic priorities and the MoD and ARM strategic documents for the future period require development of a new overall, strategic document in the area of human resource management at the MoD and the ARM. The implementation of the Equal Opportunities Policy and the Policy for Equitable Representation have resulted in significant positive changes forward and determined the requirement for a more intensive and more dynamic approach to attaining the set goals. In the context of the implementation of the Equal Opportunities Policy, the new Partnership Goal G-4590 (Gender Perspectives) was accepted in 2013. The success in the development and maintenance of the operational forces and capacities mainly depends on the adjusted dynamics and quality balance in the implementation of each stage of the human resource management process, from recruitment until termination of service and on the involvement in the project LEPEZA, by developing new contents within the LEPEZA program.
2.3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

The education and professional training of the civilian and military personnel of the Ministry of Defence and the Army of Republic of Macedonia is conducted at national training centres, state and private universities in the country and abroad and through participation in international exercises and courses. Officer education for the needs of the ARM is conducted at the Military Academy, under a four year syllabus. In July 2013, the first class of the Military Academy (34 cadets) was promoted. Furthermore, cadets for the needs of the armed forces of Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo are educated at the Military Academy. It is important that the degree acquired at the Military Academy is accepted and recognized abroad. The training will facilitate development of the necessary capacities and capabilities for execution of tasks that derive from the ARM mission. The training will be flexible and will keep up with the modernization of the ARM with sophisticated equipment and systems. The ARM training and especially the training of units declared for NATO-led operations is based on adopted SOPs. The quality of training in the ARM and the operational capacity of declared units are examined under the Operational Capabilities Concept, the NATO evaluation and reporting mechanism and NATO standards for evaluation of the level of force readiness. The key personnel at the MoD and the ARM and the personnel at declared units have priority for language training. After meeting the criteria under the NATO Partnership Centres Concept, the Public Affairs Regional Centre (PARC) has become the twenty-sixth NATO partnership centre for education and training as of June, 2013. PARC is the only partnership centre specialized for training and education in the area of public relations. With the transformation into a NATO training centre, the training at the PARC is available for all NATO and PfP countries, countries from the Mediterranean Dialogue and the Istanbul Initiative, as well as for other partner nations. The experience and lessons learned from international exercises and operations are extensively applied in the training, and they will be transferred into doctrines for training of the military active and reserve personnel.
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2.4. CONTRIBUTION TO INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

The Republic of Macedonia contributes to global security, peace and stability, mainly by participating in peace support operations and with investments in the national security capacities for protection of shared interests and values. In 2013, the Republic of Macedonia has maintained its contribution to international operations with 167 troops. The Republic of Macedonia will continue participating in the NATO-led mission ISAF in Afghanistan, in the EU-led mission ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the UN UNIFIL mission. The level of participation in 2014 will be the same as in 2013. Furthermore, the Republic of Macedonia will continue providing logistic support to KFOR through the Host Nation Support Coordination Centre. The Republic of Macedonia will actively join the EU BG 2014, where Belgium is the leading nation. The declared forces for EU BG 2014 will be completely ready for deployment in the second half of 2014. The Republic of Macedonia is actively involved in the planning process for Resolute Support post ISAF mission beyond 2014. The Ministry of Defence continuously and actively pursues defence cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral level. The Republic of Macedonia is interested in involvement in NATO Smart Defence projects. Furthermore, regional and multinational initiatives for development of joint deployable capacities, such as the NATO Concept for Smart Defence will be used.
2.5. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

The Ministry of Defence continuously and actively pursues defence cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral level. At the bilateral level, in addition to strategic partnership with the USA, plans and programmes for bilateral cooperation have been signed with 24 countries and numerous activities are accordingly implemented in 2013. The Republic of Macedonia remains strongly dedicated to improving regional cooperation, enhancing the security and stability, exchanging experience and providing support to the countries in the Region and to their integration in Euro-Atlantic structures. Multilateral international cooperation is practically supported by the countrys accession to numerous conventions and by the countrys participation in many regional initiatives and projects. The Republic of Macedonia is interested in being involved in NATO Smart Defence projects. Furthermore, regional and multinational initiatives for development of joint deployable capabilities, such as the NATO Smart Defence Concept will be used.
2.6. LOGISTIC SUPPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

The logistic support system is implemented in accordance with the Logistic Support Concept of the MoD and the ARM. The main future challenges are: implementation of an efficient automated process and operational procedures that provide for integration, transparency, equipment availability, measurability and enabling efficient logistic support to ARM operations, both in the country and abroad. This requires improvement of the logistic support in order to be able to provide capacity for support to forces deployed in operations abroad.
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CHAPTER III
DEFENSE RESOURCES
3. DEFENSE RESOURCES
The 2013 approved defence budget amounts to MK Denar 5,883,201,000 (about EUR 96 million) i.e. 1. 20 % of the GDP. The allocations by category of expenditures for 2013 are the following: Personnel about 67.83%, Operations and maintenance about 23.11%, and Equipping and infrastructure about 9.06%.
The 2013 approved defence budget enables financing of personnel costs and of operations and maintenance costs. The consequences of the global financial crisis have negatively affected the Budget of the Ministry of Defence, primarily in terms of equipping and modernization. A large part of planned procurements has been postponed for the upcoming period. The proposed budget of the Ministry of Defence for 2014 is in Assembly procedure and amounts to MK Denar 6,066,828,000 (about EUR 99 million) or 1.17% of the GDP.
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CHAPTER IV
SECURITY ISSUES
4. SECURITY ISSUES
Consistent alignment with and application of NATO and EU standards for handling classified information remain one of the major priorities of the Republic of Macedonia in the context of the security policy and cooperation with Euro-Atlantic structures. In 2013 and in 2014, the work of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information- DSCI will be aimed at: Improving the security organization for handling of classified information; Standardization of the administrative work at the DSCI; Upgrading the electronic communication link with the register of classified information at the Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO, in Brussels for exchange of classified information up to level SECRET; Monitoring the application of standards for handling of classified information in terms of administrative, physical, industrial, information and personnel security of classified information; Upgrading the level of protection of national networks through which classified information is processed and their protection from cyber attacks; Carrying out activities related to the legislation on crypto-protection in the Republic of Macedonia; Enhancing the international cooperation of the Republic of Macedonia in the area of competences of the DSCI; Intensified inter-ministerial cooperation in the field of protection of classified information and organizing continuous training on handling of classified information.
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CHAPTER V
LEGAL ISSUES
5. LEGAL ISSUES
The national legislation of the Republic of Macedonia does not pose any obstacles for NATO membership.
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CHAPTER I POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES
FOREIGN POLICY 1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
GOAL: NATO membership is a priority strategic foreign policy goal of the Republic of Macedonia.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Advancing the cooperation with NATO
Indicators: - Advancing the cooperation with representatives of NATO services and of NATO member-states; - Regular consultations with the NATO Office in Skopje; - Consultations and cooperation on issues of special interest; - Established close cooperation with KFOR representatives in Kosovo; - Joint preparation of strategic documents of the country (ANP, PARP, and IPP). Fiscal implications: None. Main implementing body/bodies: MFA, Ministry of Defence, institutions and members of the Working Group of the Working Committee for NATO Integration of the Republic of Macedonia.
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Fiscal implications: None.
Time frame: On continual basis.
Notes:
Activity 2: Inter-ministerial coordination by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the overall activities related to NATO integration of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Coordination with the Working Group for NATO Integration of the Republic of Macedonia; - Coordination of the preparation of the ANP and of other strategic documents prepared in pursuing the relations with the Alliance. Main implementing body/bodies: MFA, Ministry of Defence, ministries and institutions having their representatives in the Working Group of the Working Committee for NATO Integration of the Republic of Macedonia.
Notes:
Activity 3: Advancing regional security cooperation and the NATO and EU integration, by actively participating in Adriatic Charter (A5) activities
Indicators: - Preparation and adoption of the Action Plan for the Macedonian Adriatic Charter Chairmanship in the first half of 2013; - Implementation of activities set forth under the Action Plan, while coordinating and cooperating with Adriatic Charter countries; - Enhanced cooperation and co-ordination with the regional countries (A5 members and observers); - Successful Macedonian Chairmanship of the Adriatic Charter and promotion of the country as a partner that takes the leading role and responsibility in regional initiatives; - Support to projects designed to intensify the cooperation by involving non-governmental institutions and specialized organizations Fiscal implications: Budget of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence
Time frame: Second half of 2013
Notes: In July 2013, Montenegro took over the Adriatic Charter Chairmanship (for the second half of 2013).
GOAL: Continual participation of the Republic of Macedonia in NATO-led international missions and operations. This goal emphasizes the countrys commitment to making a contribution as an equal partner of the Alliance, standing ready to share the common responsibilities and common values of the Alliance and of the international community in ensuring peace and security.
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Participation of the Republic of Macedonia in the NATO ISAF Mission in Afghanistan, providing logistic support to the KFOR in Kosovo under the Host Nation Support Coordination Centre (HNSCC) and participation in the EU ALTHEA Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the UN UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon.
Indicators: - - Participation in the NATO ISAF Mission in Afghanistan with 155 troops; - - Providing logistic support to the KFOR in Kosovo under the Host Nation Support Coordination Centre; - - Participation in the EU ALTHEA Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina with 11 troops; - - Participation in the UN UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon with 1 person. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Defence
Time frame: On continual basis
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia is committed to continually participating in NATO-led international missions and operations, for as long as NATO would require troops of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia. The Government of the Republic of Macedonia remains committed to stable financing of the defence and especially to financing the training of and equipping the troops of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia, in line with its possibilities and with the Alliance standards. Currently, about 1.20% of the GDP is allocated for the defence. Macedonia will continue its participation in the new Mission in Afghanistan to train, advise and assist the Afghanistan partners, in accordance with the needs of the Alliance and the capacities of the Republic of Macedonia.
Activity 2: Strengthening the institutional capacities of the Republic of Macedonia for recruitment and training of appropriate personnel, with a view to establishing components for permanent civilian support to the stabilization and reconstruction parts of NATO-led missions and of other international operations.
Indicators: - Established inter-ministerial working group for coordination of activities for training of civilian experts; - Legislative framework on secondment to civilian missions; - Enhanced database with information about potential candidates-civilian experts; - Preparatory activities for organizing general training of civilian experts; - Plans for organization of specific training for targeted groups of civilian experts; - Strategy for regional participation of civilian experts in international missions.
Time frame: 2013-2014
Fiscal implications: Budget of institutions seconding civilian experts
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence
Notes: The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Macedonia, in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence of Slovenia, organized a training called Training of staff for the Mission for Stabilization and Reconstruction, at the Ministry of Defence Training Centre Joseph Kruzel in Skopje, Macedonia, on 26-27 September 2013. Opportunities were reviewed for the participation of representatives of the Republic of Macedonia in respective courses organized by the Slovenian MoD, with the aim that trained trainers in this field obtain NATO certificates.
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Fiscal implications: It is planned that activities envisaged under the National Action Plan are financed under the budgets of each relevant institution
Activity 3: Adoption of a National Action Plan of the Republic of Macedonia for the implementation of UN Resolution 1325
Indicators: - Designation of national representatives of government institutions for implementation of UN Resolution 1325 ; - Organized workshops on the implementation of the National Action Plan; - Number of organized trainings of civilian and military personnel on gender mainstreaming.
Time frame: 2013 -2014
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of the Interior, Centre for Crisis Management, Protection and Rescue Directorate
Notes:
FOREIGN POLICY 1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
GOAL: Starting accession negotiation with the European Union
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Implementation of priorities under the National Programme for Adoption of the European Acquis (NPAA 2013)
Indicators: - Renewal of the Commissions recommendation to start accession negotiations with Macedonia in October 2013; - Noted further progress in meeting criteria for membership in the 2013 EC Report on Macedonia. Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia; President of the Republic of Macedonia; Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Secretariat for European Affairs, all Ministries; Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to the EU in Brussels.
Time frame: 2013 - 2014
Notes:
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Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia
Activity 2: Implementation of the 2013-2014 Pre-Accession Economic Programme
Indicators: - Positive evaluations and conclusions of the European Commission and the EU Council on the implementation of the 2013-2014 Pre-Accession Economic Programme - Noted further progress in meeting economic criteria for membership in the EC Progress Report for Macedonia in 2013. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia; President of the Republic of Macedonia; Government of the Republic of Macedonia; Secretariat for European Affairs, all Ministries.
Time frame: 2013 - 2014
Notes:
Activity 3: Meeting goals set under the High-level Accession dialogue (HLAD)
Indicators: - Implementation of activities under the Action Plan for the start of accession negotiations and the NPAA chapters covered with HLAD; - Positive assessment under the European Commission Report on Macedonias progress in 2013 towards meeting the HLAD objectives. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia; President of the Republic of Macedonia; Government of the Republic of Macedonia; Secretariat for European Affairs, MFA, all Ministries
GOAL: Smooth implementation of the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA)
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Providing conditions for compliance with the provisions of the SAA
Indicators: - Positive evaluations and conclusions of the meetings of the bodies established by SAA subcommittees, committees, the Stabilization and Association Council, Joint Parliamentary Committee, Joint Consultative Committee on Civil Society, cooperation between local governments; - Positive assessment by the European Commission in the Progress Report on Macedonia in 2013 regarding the implementation of the SAA. Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Secretariat for European Affairs, MFA, all Ministries
Notes:
Activity 2: Compliance with the terms of a decision of the Stabilization and Association Council to move into the second phase of implementation of the SAA
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Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: Positive assessment by the European Commission in the Progress Report on Macedonia in 2013 regarding the implementation of the SAA; Adoption of the Commission proposal of 2009 for a decision to move into the second phase of implementation of SAA by the EU Council; Adoption of a relevant decision by the Stabilization and Association Council. Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Secretariat for European Affairs, MFA
Time frame: December 2013.
Notes:
GOAL: High level utilization of EU assistance - IPA
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Strengthening the institutional capacity to manage EU assistance
Indicators: - Number of new employees in IPA operation structures; - Number of organized trainings; - Positive evaluations and reports of the EU; - Number of developed and implemented projects.
Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia
Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Secretariat for European Affairs, MFA
Notes:
GOAL: Participation in the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Participation in the EU ALTHEA Mission
Indicators: - Continual rotation of the medical team and the assistant legal counsellor at the Butmir camp. Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Defence
Time frame: 2013- 2014
Notes:
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Fiscal implications: Fiscal implications:
Activity 2: Participation in the EU Battle Group EU BG 2014
Indicators: - Positive evaluation of participation in EU BG II/2014. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Defence
Notes:
Activity 3: Alignment with EU declarations, statements and decisions
Indicators: - Achieving the highest degree of convergence of the positions of Republic of Macedonia with those of the EU on current international issues. Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, MFA
Notes:
Activity 4: Implementation of International Restrictive Measures (sanctions)
Indicators: - Smooth functioning of the Coordination Body for monitoring the implementation of international restrictive measures; - Updating the Register of international restrictive measures, establishing an integrated database of the Persons stop list. Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, MFA and ministries involved for the implementation of the Law
Time frame: 2013 2014
Notes:
Activity 5: Participation in a dialogue with the EU on foreign, security and policy issues
Indicators: - Participation in EU ministerial and expert meetings on current issues under foreign, security and defence policies. Fiscal implications: In pursuance with the Program of Work of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, MFA, Ministry of Defence
Time frame: 2013 2014
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia.
Notes:
FOREIGN POLICY 1.3. STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS- UN, OSCE, COUNCIL OF EUROPE
GOAL: Candidacy of the Republic of Macedonia for membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2014-2016 period
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Presentation and promotion of the candidacy of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Number of countries supporting the candidacy Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Notes:
FOREIGN POLICY 1.4. STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES
GOAL: Advancement of and participation in pursuing and fostering regional cooperation as an essential part of foreign relations
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Participation in activities planned under ongoing regional initiatives
Indicators: - Meetings held under the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship (June 2012- June 2013); - Under the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship, a formal Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of SEECP participating states was held on 31 May 2013, in Ohrid; - The seat of the Secretariat of the Southeast European Health Network was opened in Skopje, on 7 March 2013. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the President of the Republic of Macedonia, the MFA and other in-line institutions.
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Notes: During the Macedonian SEECP Chairmanship, the formal Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs took place.
Activity 2: Promoting the Republic of Macedonia as the regional leader and as a country that shows initiative in the context of regional good-neighbourly policy in the entire Southeast European Region
Indicators: - Activities arising from priorities associated with the promotion of Macedonia as a regional leader; - Many expert meetings, forums, debates; - Regular participation in regional initiatives. Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the President of the Republic of Macedonia, the MFA and other in-line institutions.
Notes: It is necessary to actively support other regional initiatives as well, such as the CEI, the Regional Cooperation Council, MARRI, SECI, then to coordinate with their activities and to fulfil financial obligations towards these initiatives and organizations.
FOREIGN POLICY 1.5. ADVANCEMENT OF GOOD-NEIGHBOURLY RELATIONS
GOAL: Advancement of Good-Neighbourly Relations with the Republic of Albania
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Building mutual confidence and respect
Indicators: - Initiative for convening a joint Government session of the two countries, raised during the last visit by Prime Minister Gruevski to Albania; - Cooperation in the EU integration context, - In October 2013, there were activities to mark the 20th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Albania; - The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Macedonia to the Republic of Albania was formally opened on 29 July 2013, in Durrs; - The Joint Contact Centre for Police Cooperation started working on 17 May 2013; - Transforming the Macedonian Language Desk at the Tirana University into a Department; - Initiative to open Cultural and Information Centres in Tirana and in Skopje. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia. Main implementing body/bodies: MFA and other in-line institutions
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia.
Notes: The initiative for a joint government session of the two countries will be raised again following the formation of the new Government of the Republic of Albania. As regards the transformation of the Macedonian Language Desk at the University of Tirana into a Department, it is expected that this activity will be further pursued after the visit of the Minister of Education of the Republic of Macedonia to Tirana, to take place this autumn.
Activity 2: Expanding the contractual framework
Indicators: - More than 60 agreements have been signed in various areas of cooperation; - The Action Plan and Agreement on Cooperation in Areas of Education and Science are expected to be signed during the visit by the Macedonian Minister of Education to Tirana, scheduled for thus autumn; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on cooperation in preventing and alleviating consequences of disasters ad catastrophes- the text of the Agreement has been fully harmonized; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on Social Insurance- negotiations are underway. Main implementing body/bodies: MFA and other in-line institutions
Notes:
Activity 3: Border crossings and cross-border cooperation
Indicators: - There is on-going cross-border cooperation under the 2007-2013 IPA Program; - The Agreement on the opening of the road border crossing Dzepiste-Trebiste entered into force on 5 March 2013. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Communications, MFA
Notes: The Dzepiste-Trebiste border crossing has been opened only for pedestrians. The road on the Albanian side (about 2 to 3 km) is expected to be tarmacked so that the border crossing can be used for road traffic, as well. The Albanian side accepted the proposal of the Ministry of the Interior to provisionally open the border-crossing only for pedestrians. Hence, this border crossing was opened for pedestrians on 2 May 2013, while the official opening of the border crossing was on 17 May 2013.
Activity 4: Infrastructure interconnectivity
Indicators: - Priority is given to the construction of infrastructure sections of Corridor 8, KicevoStrugaAlbanian border railway line, the OhridPogradec shipping lane (the Republic of Macedonia is interested in building a ring road around Lake Ohrid), importance being attached as well to the establishment of energy interconnectivity, while activities in this respect are financed with IPA funds. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Communications, MFA
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Notes: As regards the Kicevo-Struga-Albanian border railway line, a railway construction plan is now prepared. In the context of the Ohrid Pogradec shipping lane, in May 2013, there was a meeting of expert groups composed of representatives of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the Ministry of the Interior, Customs Administrations and representatives of local authorities of Ohrid and Pogradec. This shipping lane was expected to start functioning this summer, but owing to the parliamentary elections in Albania there have been delays in implementing the necessary activities in this respect. A feasibility study has been prepared on the energy inter-connectivity between the two countries. The Macedonian part of the investment is planned to be finance with a credit from international financial institutions. The Study envisages that the transmission line will start operating to the end of 2017.
GOAL: Advancement of good-neighbourly relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Hellenic Republic
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1:
Strengthening the mutual trust
Indicators: - Signing of a Declaration of Friendship, Good-Neighbourliness and Cooperation between the two countries (initiative raised by the Republic of Macedonia in 2008); - Establishment of a Joint Committee on Education and History- initiative of the Republic of Macedonia of 2008; - Framework proposal for advancement of bilateral relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Hellenic Republic of 2008.
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia raised these initiatives again with the Hellenic Republic on 7 July 2012.
Activity 2: Cooperation in the EU context
Indicators: - The second round of expert consultations between the MFAs of the two countries on EU related issues was held in Skopje, on 5 April 2013. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes: Under the agreed upon expert level cooperation between the countries MFAs, there have been two rounds of consultations on EU related issues, as well as expert consultations on environmental protection (13 May, 2013,. in Thessalonica), seminar on the EU acquis (17 May 2013, in Athens), Seminar on EU Common Foreign and Security Policy (26 November 2012, in Athens), and the Secretariat for European Affairs presented the potentials for cooperation under twinning and TAIEX instruments (12 June 2013, in Athens).
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Activity 3: Advancement of the economic cooperation
Indicators: - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for signing an Agreement on Mutual Protection and Encouragement of Investments; the draft Agreement has been submitted to the Greek side in February 2013; - In order to deepen the economic cooperation it is necessary to sign agreements in the area of economy, such as an Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation; - Continuation of the Agreement on the five year development program between the Republic of Macedonia and the Hellenic Republic to 2020, for the purpose of implementing projects under the Greek plan for reconstruction of the Balkans. (In June 2013, the Greek side informed that they are not able to continue the program); - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for organization of a Business Forum, supported by Greek side that has proposed that the Forum is held in Athens; - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for a visit to the Republic of Macedonia by representatives of the Athens Chamber of Commerce. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
Notes: It would be desirable that the good economic cooperation is accompanied with the signing of standard agreements in the area of economy. Greek investors in the Republic of Macedonia are especially interested in the signing of an Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation.
Activity 4: Improvement of the infrastructure
Indicators: - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for reconstruction of the Bitola-Florina (Lerin) railway line; - Initiative for reconstruction of the local border crossing near the village of Idomeni (Seovo). Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transport and Communications
Notes: Initiative for the conclusion of an agreement regulating the railway traffic between the two countries; drafts of two agreements in this context were submitted to the Greek side in February 2013; (for the border crossings Gevgelija-Idomeni and Kremenica-Mesonison).
Activity 5: Opening new border crossings
Indicators: - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for opening of the border crossing Markova Noga- Agios Germanos; - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for the opening of the border crossing Nikolik- Dojrani; - Initiative of the Republic of Macedonia for the opening of the border crossing Pulevac-Ardea. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transport and Communications
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Time frame:
Notes: On 7 July 2012, the Republic of Macedonia again raised initiatives for opening new border crossings with the Hellenic Republic. The opening of new border crossings would contribute to a facilitated flow of persons, goods and services between the two countries.
Activity 6: Cooperation in other areas
Indicators: - Cooperation between the Ministries of Environmental Protection of the two countries; - Cooperation between the Ministries of Transport of the two countries. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environmental Protection and Spatial Planning, Ministry of Transport and Communications
Notes: Expert level consultations between the Ministries of Environmental Protection of the two countries were held on 13 May 2013, in Thessalonica.
GOAL: Advancement of Good-Neighbourly Relations with the Republic of Kosovo
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1:
Expanding the contractual framework
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds
Indicators: - Initiative for a joint session of the Governments of the two countries a reply from the Kosovo side is expected; - Agreement on Social Insurance signed on 7 February 2013, during the visit by the Minister of Labour and Social Policy of the Republic of Macedonia to Kosovo; - The text of the Agreement between the two countries on Mutual Encouragement and Protection of Investments has been harmonized and the Agreement has been endorsed by the Government; it is expected that the Agreement will be signed as soon as possible; - The Memorandum of Cooperation in the Area of Culture between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Macedonia and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports of the Republic of Kosovo was signed in February 2013; - Memorandum of Understanding between the Governments of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Kosovo on voluntary return of Kosovo nationals found on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia as a result of the 1999 conflict; The text has been harmonized between the two sides; the internal legal procedure in the Republic of Macedonia has been completed and the signatory has been designated; - With a view to enhancing the economic cooperation, attracting foreign investments and joint appearance at third markets, during the visit of the Minister of Economy to the Republic of Kosovo (23 July 2013), it was agreed that the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Kosovo would jointly approach the EU and international funds asking finances for joint projects that will facilitate the infrastructure inter-connectivity between the two countries; - During his last visit to the Republic of Macedonia, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo raised the initiative for signing an Agreement on International Road Transport of Passengers and Goods; The Macedonian side is considering the initiative; - The request of the Republic of Macedonia submitted to the Kosovo side for extradition of two persons suspected of committing crimes in the Lake Smiljkovci case is still pending. The in-line Ministries for this issue are the Ministries of Justice of the two countries. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
Notes: The cooperation, the frequency of high level visits and the exchange between the two countries is at a satisfactory level.
Activity 2:
Infrastructure interconnectivity
Indicators: - Construction of the SkopjePritina motorway. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Macedonia
Notes: During the last working visit of the Minister of Economy of the Republic of Macedonia to the Republic of Kosovo (23 July 2013), it was confirmed that in line with the Government Program, in the second half of 2014, the Republic of Macedonia is to publish a public call for selection of a company that will construct the Skopje-Blace motorway. However, prior to this, all other procedures need to be completed and a feasibility study has to be made in order to decide which source of finances would be most acceptable. The Kosovo side has completed all preparations and will start the construction of the motorway from Pristina to Blace to the end of 2013. The company to conduct the construction activities under this project is expected to be selected, and the project is expected to be completed in 42 months.
Activity 3:
Opening new border crossings and modernization of existing ones
Indicators: - Modernization of the Blace border crossing; - There are joint commitments to the early opening the new border crossing BelanovceStani. As regards the Globocica-Jazince border crossing, there is a feasibility study prepared in order to expand this border crossing for freight transportation, as well. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: MFA, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transport and Communications
Notes: On 24 June 2013, at the Globocica border crossing, near Jazince, the Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Macedonia and the Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Kosovo signed the Agreement on the opening a new border crossing for international transportation between the two countries Belanovce-Stancic.
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GOAL: Building good-neighbourly relations with the Republic of Serbia
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Building mutual confidence and respect
Indicators: - On 3 June, 2013, in Belgrade, the Governments of the two countries held a joint session on issues of mutual interest; - Initiative for convening the second joint session of the Governments of the two countries on issues of mutual interest in Skopje, in the course of 2014; - Initiative for convening return political consultations at the level of Political Directors at the MFAs of the two countries; - Convening a meeting of the Mixed Committee on Economic Relations to the end of 2013; - Signed Agreement on Cooperation in the context of the EU accession of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia; - The Memorandum of Understanding on Roaming Services between the Republic of Macedonia, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro was signed on 3 July 2013, in Skopje; - Signing of the Agreement on Cooperation in the Area of Tourism; - The Agreement on Cooperation in the Area of Health Care and Medical Sciences has been signed in Skopje; - The Agreement between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia on remunerated employment of dependants -members of families of the staff at diplomatic missions and consular posts was signed in 18 February 2013, in Skopje; - Signing of an Agreement on Protection of Cultural and Historical Monuments and Memorials in the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia; - Agreement on the Opening of Cultural and Information Centres in Skopje and in Belgrade, respectively.
Time frame: On continual bases
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
Notes: With a view to further advancing the bilateral cooperation, during the joint session of the two countries Governments the Prime Ministers of the two countries focused their discussions on the need to strengthen the economic cooperation, as well as on facilitating joint appearance at third markets.
Indicators: - Initiatives for the conclusion of the following agreements: - Agreement on Cooperation in the Area of Tourism; - Memorandum on Administration Cooperation; - Agreement regulating Property Rights Related Issues; - Agreement on Mutual Recognition of Documents in Area of Education and on Research Scholarships; - Agreement on Control of the Border Regulation of Railway Traffic; - Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation; - Agreement on International Road Transportation of Passengers and Goods; - Agreement between the Governments of the Republic of Macedonia and of the Republic of Serbia on Military Cemeteries. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds
Notes:
Activity 3:
Infrastructure interconnectivity
Indicators: - Projects carried out under Corridor 10 and their full completion to the end of 2014; - Initiatives for development of energy capacities, ensuring energy stability of the Region and establishing a gas supply network, focusing on the VranjeKumanovo gas pipeline. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Communications, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes:
Activity 4: Opening new border crossings
Indicators: - Opening of the Lojane-Miratovac border crossing; - Opening of the Ogut-Trgoviste border crossing; - Opening of the Tatarinec- Slavuevac border crossing; - Initiative for establishment of a joint border crossing (Pelince-Prohor Pcinjski); the proposal in this context is that one border crossing (the Serbian one) is used in order to reduce the procedures and accelerate the flow of passengers and goods. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transport and Communications
Time frame: 2014
Notes: The Golema CrcorijaGole joint border crossing for local border traffic was opened in May 2011. The operation of border crossings serves the interest of facilitating the communication between the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia.
GOAL: Advancement of Good-Neighbourly Relations with the Republic of Bulgaria
ACTIVITIES:
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Activity 1:
Building mutual confidence and respect
Indicators: - On 28 July 2013, in Kustendil, upon the initiative of the Republic of Macedonia (invitation by MFA Poposki sent to Bulgarian MFA Vinegin on 5 June 2013) there was a working meeting of the Prime Ministers of the Republic of Macedonia and of the Republic of Bulgaria; - Initiative for signing of an Agreement on exchange of facilities intended for premises of the Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia in Sofia and of the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Skopje; - Initiative for establishment of joint working groups on infrastructure, regional cooperation, transport and energy (Macedonian initiative- letter by MFA Poposki of October 2012, accepted by Bulgarian MFA Mladenov in his letter addressed to MFA Poposki in November 2012). Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
Notes: Direct communication at the high level will enable establishment of a new practice in the cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Bulgaria and serves the purpose of advancing the bilateral relations between the two countries in the good-neighbourly policy context. The establishment of Working Groups will enable implementation of declared commitments to advancing bilateral relations. In December 2012, a Working Group comprising representatives of both countries Ministries of Foreign Affairs was established to harmonize the draft text of the Agreement between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Bulgaria on friendship, good-neighbourly relations and cooperation. The first meeting of the representatives of the Working groups of both countries Ministries of Foreign Affairs was held in December 2012. A total of 4 meetings for harmonization of the draft text of the Agreement were held until October 2013.
Indicators: - Agreement on Friendship, Good-Neighbourliness and Cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Bulgaria; - Initiative for signing an Agreement on Twinning the Cities of Kustendil and Stip; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on Local Border Traffic the procedure is under way; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on Cooperation in Cases of Disasters procedure under way; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on Witness Protection and on Implementation of Special Investigative Measures Macedonian initiative of 2006; - Initiative for the conclusion of an Agreement on Cooperation in the Area of Information of Communication Technology the text of the Agreement has been harmonized and a signatory on the Macedonian part has been designated; - Draft Agreement on Seasonal Employment between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Bulgaria - the Macedonian side presented the initiative again in March 2013; - Program of Cooperation between the Ministries of Culture of the two countries covering the period from 2013 to 2015. Initiative raised again in the first half of 2013. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other in-line institutions
Notes: There have been four meetings of working groups to harmonize the text of the Agreement. The initiative has been submitted to the Bulgarian side and their reply is expected.
Activity 3: Border crossings and cross-border cooperation
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international funds
Indicators: - Opening of the Klepalo Berovo Strumjani border crossing; - Opening of the PehevoSimitli border crossing; - Opening of the Delcevo-Nevestino border crossing. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Comm., Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes: The Macedonian part of the Klepalo border crossing has been completed; the Republic of Bulgaria is awaited to build about 30 km of road on its territory.
Activity 4: Infrastructure interconnectivity
Indicators: - Implementation of projects under Corridor 8, with a focus on the Skopje-Sofia railway line; reconstruction of the section Kumanovo- Beljakovce of 31 km on the Macedonian territory. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Communications, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes: A feasibility study has been prepared for the railway line on the Macedonian territory and funds have been provided in the amount of EUR 46.4 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (payment period 15 years, grace period of four years, and interest rate which currently stands art 1.7%). The construction of the section is expected to start in 2013, and field works are expected to be completed in three to four years.
CHAPTER I POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES
INTERNAL POLICY 1.6. ADVANCEMENT OF POLITICAL DIALOGUE BY STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
GOAL: Strengthening the legislative, monitoring and representative function of the Assembly The attainment of this goal is expected to result in an enhanced role in and influence by the Assembly Committees on the legislative process, as well as in strengthening the control of the executive power by the Assembly, and in advancement of the representative duties of MPs, through the operation of offices for contacts with citizens in constituencies.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: More prominent role of the Assembly committees in the process of adoption of laws and other documents
Indicators: - Number of committee meetings, agenda items, reviewed bills and submitted amendments. Fiscal implications: Under the envisaged Budget of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia (Committees).
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Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia.
Notes: The Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia has 21 committees. Before the debate at the plenary session of the Assembly, bills are considered by in-line Assembly Committees. The Committee meetings are transparent and open to the public. In the period from 1 January to 15 August 2013, the working bodies of the Assembly held 210 meetings. The Committees considered 1,617 agenda items, i.e. 1,512 draft laws.
Activity 2: Organization of scrutiny hearings on the implementation of the legislation and public hearings on legislative projects
Indicators: - Number of organized public and scrutiny hearings, involvement of stakeholders (associations of citizens, in-line and professional institutions), adopted conclusions, proposed amendments to legal projects. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia (Committees and National European Integration Council)
Notes: In the period from 1 January to 15 August 2013, there were three scrutiny hearings and three public hearings.
Activity 3: Convening question time sessions
Indicators: - Number of question time sessions held, number of MPs that have asked questions, number of asked and answered questions, the period within which MP questions have been answered in writing. Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Government of the Republic of Macedonia
Notes: Every last Thursday of the month, the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia convenes a plenary question time session, at which the Prime Minister, Ministers and other elected officials answer MP questions. MP questions may be answered orally or in writing. The order of questions, set by the Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Deputy Speakers and Coordinators of political groups, ensures that the ratio between asked questions is 2 to 1 in favour of the opposition parties. 46 MPs asked a total number of 104 questions, of which 86 were answered. The period for receiving a reply is 20 days. The number of MP questions answered orally or in writing is 86, 18 MP questions have remained unanswered, while the number of questions asked between two sessions is 20, of which 17 were answered and 3 have still not been answered.
Activity 4: Establishment of offices for contacts with citizens in the constituencies
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Assembly and funds provided by the Swiss Development and Cooperation Agency
Indicators: - Number of offices for contacts with citizens, number of meetings/contacts with citizens in the offices, number of engaged staff in the offices, number of days set by MPs for direct contacts with citizens. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Swiss Development and Cooperation Agency, National Democratic Institute-USA
Time frame: 2013
Notes: 52 offices have been opened out of the 75 offices envisaged to be opened. 75 assistants have been recruited, some of which are mobile assistants, i.e. they provide assistance to MPs for meetings with citizens in places where offices have still not been opened. Friday is the day set for meetings with citizens in the concerned MPs constituencies. The Unit for support of MPs communication with citizens facilitates the successful functioning of the offices. For now the Unit employs one civil servant.
GOAL: Advancing the political dialogue among political parties represented at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia The higher level of coordination at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia and the better programming of activities have proven to be an efficient mechanism to ensure the political dialogue. Therefore, meetings of the Speaker and Deputy Speakers of the Assembly with political group coordinators (at which Government representatives are also invited) will continue to be regularly held in the forthcoming period as well, while the Assembly Rules of Procedure will be further consistently applied, especially its provisions adopted after the last amendments to the Rules of Procedure, which strengthen the role and responsibility of opposition parties.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Improving the planning and organization of the work of the Assembly
Indicators: - Number of coordination meetings held of the Speaker of the Assembly with Deputy Speakers and political groups coordinators, at which Government representatives are also invited (at the level of Deputy Prime Ministers). Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. Main implementing body/bodies: Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Deputy Speakers, Coordinators of political groups
Time frame: On continual basis, every Monday.
Notes: Each Monday, the Speaker of the Assembly, Deputy Speakers and Coordinators of political groups represented at the Assembly hold coordination meetings.
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Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia.
Activity 2: Establishment of a Working Group in line with the Agreement on the implementation of recommendations contained in the Report of the Inquiry Committee for examination of the events of 24 December 2012 at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Establishment of the Working Group, inclusion in the Working Group, number of meetings and topics of discussion at the meetings. Main implementing body/bodies: The Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia and the members of the Working Group
Time frame: Until the implementation of the recommendations
Notes: Following the adoption of the Report by the Inquiry Committee for examination of events of 24 December 2012 at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, the Speaker of the Assembly adopted a decision establishing a Working Group for implementation of recommendations contained in the Report of the Inquiry Committee for examination of events of 24 December 2012 at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. In pursuance with the said Decision, this Working Group has the task of drafting and submitting all laws, secondary legislation and amendments to the Rules of Procedures, as required under the recommendations. The Working Group consists of six members, among whom opposition political parties and the majority political parties at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia have the same number of members. The political groups of the political parties VMRO-DPMNE and of the SDSM each have two members, then one member represents the political group of the DUI political parity, and one member represents the DPA political party. The seat of the representative of the DPA political party is in fact vacant, since this political party does not wish to appoint its representative. The Working Group has thus far held 8 meetings, at which the Working Group members have discussed the manner of implementing the above referred to recommendations. It should be underlined that the Working Group operates based on a consensus, without exceptions.
GOAL: Further development of capacities of e-Parliament and further strengthening of the transparency in the work of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia With a view to enhancing the efficiency and transparency, the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia makes continual efforts for the improvement and greater utilization of modern technologies in its work. Information about the work of the Assembly can be found at the Assembly website. In addition, there are live broadcasts of plenary sessions at the Assembly TV channel, as well as live streaming at the Assembly website. At the Assembly TV channel, there are also recorded and live broadcasts of meetings of committees and of other events at the Assembly.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Improving the efficiency of the electronic system for management of documents related to the legislative procedure and regular updating of the website of the Assembly (in four languages: Macedonian, Albanian, English and French)
Indicators: - Number of MPs and civil servants who are actively using the document management system on a daily basis (receipt of materials, scheduling sessions of the Assembly and meetings of working bodies, publication of reports, conclusions, transcripts, voting, video and audio recordings), number of processed documents, sent e-mail notifications, number of visitors of the website of the Assembly. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Assembly, EU funds (IPA project) Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia.
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia
Notes: The legislative process at the Assembly is conducted electronically, with the application of the e-Parliament system. This system covers the following processes: receipt and entering materials in the records (archive); notifications about new materials; scheduling sessions; posting conclusions; posting reports, posting audio and video recordings; posting results of voting; announcements for MP questions sessions; posting asked questions; posting answers. The e-Parliament system offers the possibility for automatic generation of sample documents and letters; notification via e-mail about all activities of the Assembly relating to materials and sessions. 123 MPs and all civil servants employed at the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia use this system every day. The website of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia is updated every day with new information relating to the work of the Assembly. The Assembly website offers all materials that have been or are in Assembly procedure, information regarding at which legislative stage the documents are, all reports and conclusions related to such materials, the daily agenda and future planned activities, video and audio recordings of sessions, reports of working bodies sessions, minutes of Assembly sessions, annual and obligatory reports of the Assembly, etc. Website visitors can send questions for the Speaker and MPs and they have access to information about Offices for contacts with citizens, the e-newsletter, access to the parliamentary library, etc.
Activity 2: Preparations for transformation of the Assembly TV channel and its proper equipping enabling production of own programme
Indicators: - Live broadcasts and recordings of Assembly activities, hours of own programme broadcasts. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Council for support to the Assembly TV channel
Time frame: 2013
Notes: In the period from January to August 2013, the Assembly channel had 36 live broadcasts of plenary sessions of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, with a total duration of 4,435 minutes. In the period from 1 January 2013 to 31 August 2013, the Assembly Channel broadcast 258 different programmes, with a total duration of 16,630 minutes. Out of these broadcast programmes, there were 4,435 minutes of live broadcasts, while 222 programmes with a total duration of 12,185 minutes were re-broadcasts.
GOAL: Enhancing the financial autonomy of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia With a view to enhancing its financial autonomy, the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia established a Budget Council, which for the first time took part in designing the Budget of the Republic of Macedonia for 2009, specifically in the design of the Budget items relating to the Assembly. The enhancement of the financial autonomy of the Assembly and facilitating the management of the Assembly budget advances the independence of the Assembly vis--vis the executive branch, as confirmed with experiences of numerous European countries parliaments.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Setting the strategic priorities for financing of the Assembly for the 2012-2013 period and their incorporation in the Budget of the Republic of Macedonia, under proposals for separate budget programmes and sub-programmes
Indicators: - Number of programmes and sub-programmes within the Budget of the Republic of Macedonia section: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia; monitoring the spending of funds planned for 2011; defining the realistic needs for funds; number of sessions held by the Budget Council of the Assembly. Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly Budget Council.
Time frame: 2013
Notes: In the period from January to August 2013, the Council for the Budget of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia held its V session, at which two agenda items were considered. The session was held on 22 July 2013 and in pursuance with Article 27, paragraph (1) of the Law on the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, the Budget Council considered and defined the Strategic Plan of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, covering the period from 2014 to 2016 and the draft budget of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia for 2014.
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Fiscal implications: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Swiss Development and Cooperation Agency, National Democratic Institute-USA
GOAL: Developing the research capacities of the Assembly The established Parliamentary Institute is expected to ensure quality, equitability and transparency of services related to research, education, communication, library and record keeping for all MPs at the Assembly, as well as for the employees at the Services of the Assembly, interns, staff at offices for contacts with citizens, external associates of MP political groups and other associates.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Development and equipping the Parliamentary Institute
Indicators: - Number of employees at the Parliamentary Institute, number of meetings of the Management Board and number of prepared analyses and documents. Main implementing body/bodies: Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Management Board of the Parliamentary Institute, Swiss Development and Cooperation Agency, National Democratic Institute-USA
Time frame: 2013
Notes: It is expected that 25 staff will be employed at the Parliamentary Institute. At the beginning of 2013, three managerial officers were employed at the Parliamentary Institute, as well as 17 other staff at the two Departments of the Parliamentary Institute. 5 more staff members are expected to be employed to the end of 2013, by which the process of staffing the Institute will be completed.
INTERNAL POLICY 1.7. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OHRID FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT
GOAL: Implementation of the principle of equitable representation of communities in public administration through the implementation of the Programme for Employment of community members and strengthening administrative capacities.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Implementation of the K5 Programme for 2013
Indicators: - Adopted Programme for employment of persons belonging to communities in 2013 by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia. - Set of 450 new jobs, realized are 258, and remain 192 Fiscal Implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies Secretariat for the Implementation of the Framework Agreement
Timeline: 2013
Notes: During 2012-2013 year are published three calls for employment of members of non-majority communities, realized were 382 employees. 74 employees of the Secretariat have been taken by other state institutions.
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Fiscal Implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia, the UK Embassy
Activity 2: Realization of the training of translators
Indicators: - Realized training of 120 translators Main implementing body/bodies Secretariat for the Implementation of the Framework Agreement
Timeline: 2013
Notes:
INTERNAL POLICY 1.8. ADVANCEMENT OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REFORMS
GOAL: Further regulation of the legal framework and upgrading of the public administration institutional and administrative capacity, based on the European Administrative Space principles. Building of a skilled and professional civil and public service, through improvement of the employment procedure, mobility and assessment of the administration employees.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Enacting a Law on Administration The new Law on Administration will provide consolidation of the legal framework on civil and public servants (Law on Civil Servants and Law on Public Servants), based on the merit system and competence frame.
Indicators: - Adopted Law on Administration - Adopted bylaws stemming from the Law. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2014
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Fiscal implications:
Notes: The Draft Law on Administration has been in the process of preparation. The new legal solutions include provisions harmonized with the principles of the European Administrative Space and the best practices in this field, particularly in the procedures for candidate selection in administration, where besides the merit system; a work competence frame is to be incorporated. So-called 360 degree assessment mechanism has been introduced to be implemented annually. The new Law will provide establishment of the Registry of Civil and Public Servants, which apart from data on civil and public servants, will also contain data on administrative service employees who do not have the status of administrative servants, and who exercise their rights in accordance with a special law and general labour regulation.
GOAL: Improvement of the administration work through improvement of the service orientation, transparency and accountability to the citizens and business community.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Drafting a Law on General Administrative Procedure (LGAP)
Indicators: - Adopted Law on General Administrative Procedure Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2014
Notes: Following the adoption of the Strategy for drafting the new Law on General Administrative Procedure, a working group was set up and it started drafting a new law in the second quarter of the year. Presently a draft law is being in preparation, in order to provide increased rights for the citizens in administrative procedures and facilitation of their obligations fulfilment to the state institutions.
GOAL: Ensuring increased accessibility, transparency and quality of administrative services, oriented toward the citizens and business community.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Increasing the number of interoperability system users.
Indicators: - Number of certified information systems - Number of submitted requests for information system certification - Number of registered institutions in the interoperability system - Number of submitted requests by institutions for registering in the interoperability system Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia - MISA Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2014
Notes: - In 2013, procedures were designed for electronic data exchange regulation, a procedure for requesting new services, updating and service termination, and for mutual agreements between institutions. - By mid- 2013, two information system certificates were issued, that is the first step in the procedure for inclusion in the interoperability system.
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia - MISA Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia - MISA
Activity 2: Implementation of the electronic learning system
Indicators: - Number of system users (institutions and employees) - Number of system courses - Number of attended courses Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2014
Notes: - By the end of 2013, 7 courses in human resource management will be developed and set up in the system.
Activity 3: Upgrading the document management system
Indicators: - Number of developed and/or upgraded processes Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2013
Notes: - By the end of 2013, 60 new and/or upgraded processes will have been developed.
GOAL: Enacting a legal framework that will include media and audio and audiovisual media services, in order to develop the media sector in the country.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Enacting a Law on the Media and a Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services
Indicators: - Adopted Law on Media and Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services with incorporated comments by all stakeholders, as well as by engaged experts through the OSCE, the Council of Europe and the TAIEX. Fiscal implications: / Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Information Society and Administration
Time frame: 2013
Notes: - The Draft Law on the Media provides the basic principles and conditions to be met by media publishers (broadcasters, printed media or electronic publication publishers) for performing activities. - The Draft Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services encompasses the rights, responsibility and accountability of the broadcasters, audiovisual media service providers on demand and operators of public electronic communication networks that transmit or re-transmit broadcasters programme services. - The two draft Laws are presently being in the Assembly procedure.
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Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia
INTERNAL POLICY 1.9. ADVANCEMENT OF JUSTICE SYSTEM REFORMS
GOAL: Strengthening the independence, efficiency and professionalism of the judiciary. With the implementation of this goal, the independence of the judiciary will be strengthened in all its segments, as following: election of judges, their liability and training, as well as financing of the judiciary. At the same time, by conducting the activities which are referring to the efficiency of the judiciary the backlog of cases in the courts will be decreased and the cases will be resolved in a shorter period.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Conducting initial training of the 5th generation of candidates for initial training at the Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors
Indicators: - Published advertisement for admission of candidates for initial training; - Taking entrance examination; - Admission of candidates; - Conducted initial training Main implementing body/bodies: Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors
Tim frame: 2013-2015
Notes:
Activity 2: Realization of continuous trainings for judges and public prosecutors
Indicators: - Conducted trainings for judges and public prosecutors Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and donations Main implementing body/bodies: Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors
Time frame: Continuous
Notes:
Activity 3: Implementation of the legal provisions referring to election of judges, career system in promotion and liability and assessment of judges.
Indicators: - Number of elected judges - Number of elected judges in higher courts (in accordance with the new criteria for promotion of judges) - Conducted annual assessment for the work of judges Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia, USAID Main implementing body/bodies: Judicial Council of the Republic of Macedonia
Time frame : Continuous
Notes:
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Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia, IPA Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and donors
Activity 4: Implementation of the Methodology on court statistics
Indicators: - Collected, processed and analyzed court data for the work of courts - Upgraded planning of the work of courts Main implementing body/bodies: Judicial Council of the Republic of Macedonia
Timeline : Continuous
Notes:
Activity 5: Introducing information technology in public prosecutors offices
Indicators: - Introduced IT in public prosecutors offices - Interconnection between the IT system of public prosecutors offices with the IT systems in courts, Ministry of the Interior, penitentiary institutions etc. Main implementing body/bodies: Public prosecutors office of the Republic of Macedonia
Timeline : 2013-2015
Notes:
INTERNAL POLICY 1.10. ELECTION LEGISLATION
GOAL: Update of the Voters List. With this goal is predicted development, adoption and implementation of the methodology for check of the Voters List, as well as promotion/improvement of the system for exchange of information between the institutions which according to their legal competences deliver data for the elaboration of the Voters List.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Development and implementation of methodology for check of the Voters List
Indicators: - Identification and engagement of a consultant with experience in the field of development and implementation of methodologies for check of the Voters List. - Holding regular meetings with the State Electoral Commission and other institutions which deliver data for the Voters List. - According to the received findings, the consultant will prepare the methodology (the subject of investigation, the size of the sample, the tolerance, the stratification, the questionnaire, the method of collecting data etc). - This methodology will be available to the SEC so that the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Voters List can be checked in the most appropriate time and way, according to the previous judgment of the SEC and the Work group for check of the Voters List. Financial implications: In cooperation with the office of the OSCE Main implementing body/bodies: State Election Commission
Timeline: Second half of 2013
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Fiscal implications: In cooperation with the office of the OSCE
Notes: Quality running and update of the Voters List is a challenge for many countries. The regular check helps in the determination of the accuracy of the Voters List and strengthens of the civil trust. One of the recommendations from the ODIHR after the early parliamentary elections in 2011 was check of the Voters List. The Governmental action plan for 2013 for the Approach dialog predicts check of the Voters List and for that goal was set up deadlines for determination of the methodology. In the frames of the Memorandum for cooperation between the Mission of the OSCE in Skopje and the SEC for implementation of mutual activities signed this year, besides the rest, is predicted cooperation in the part of development and implementation of methodology for check of the Voters List.
Activity 2:
Promotion/Improvement of the system for exchange of information between the institutions which deliver data for the Voters List.
Indicators: - Identification and engagement of a consultant; - Analyses of the existing legislation and the procedures for making and update of the Voters List , such as analyses of the coordination between the institutions which deliver data; - Holding regular meetings with the State Electoral Commission and other institutions which deliver data for the Voters List ; - Identification of the problems and gaps in the existing system for exchange of information; - Formulation of recommendations for its development. Main implementing body/bodies: State Election Commission
Notes: According to the Electoral Code, the Voters List is a public document which contains data for the citizens with electoral law (the unique identification number of the citizens, surname, and name of one of the parents, name, gender, and address of residence municipality, settlement, street, house number, entrance and apartment). The Voters List is run by the SEC, but its accuracy depends on the data delivered from other institutions, as well as from the established system of exchange of data and coordination between the institutions which are competent for keeping and exchange of those data. With the establishment of effective system for exchange of data and coordination, significantly will be decreased the risk of mistakes in the Voters List, which will contribute to increase of public trust in the List.
GOAL: Successfully organized and conducted regular presidential elections that should be held in March 2014. The goal is to conduct presidential elections according to the highest standards including the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR gained in the final reports from the early parliamentary elections in 2011 and the regular local elections 2013.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Organization and realization of Presidential elections - 2014
Indicators: - Establishment of Time table for electoral activities; - Establishment of programmes for education of election organs; - Preparation and establishment of Code for election monitoring; - Adoption of other bylaws (guidelines, rulebooks, clarifications, directions, manuals etc.); - Forming/staffing the electoral organs (municipality electoral commissions and electoral boards) by random choice from the state and public administration; - Education of the electoral organs ( municipality electoral commissions and electoral boards); - Determination of the kind, quality and the look of the vote lists and their printing; - Receive of candidate lists for president election of the state; - In time and safe delivery of the trusted and entrusted material to the electoral organs; - Ensuring online network for transferring data between SEC and the municipality electoral commission; - Preparation and printing the Voters List (statements from the Voters List); - Results publication. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: State Election Commission
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Time frame: First half of 2014
Notes: According to the Electoral Code it is expected the President of the Parliament of the Republic of Macedonia at the end of 2013 or the beginning of 2014 to reach a decision for announcement of regular presidential elections. The preparations regarding the elections will start before their announcement and the electoral activities for the organization and conducting of the elections will start from the day of the reached decision for their announcement and will last till the announcement of their results.
Activity 2: Evaluation of the conducted presidential activities and post election activities. The goal is to analyze the conducted presidential elections in direction of further promotion and improvement of the election process and legislation.
Indicators: - Preparation and elaboration of a report from the conducted elections; - Organization of workshops with the members of the election organs (municipality election commissions and election boards). Main implementing body/bodies: State Election Commission
Notes: Evaluation of the elections right after their holding is an activity which significantly contributes for improvement of every further election process.
INTERNAL POLICY 1.11. POLICE REFORM PRIORITIES
GOAL: Improvement of the public safety and strengthening of the administrative capacities for fight against cross-border crime and corruption. Strengthening of the confidence that all of the communities have regarding the police.
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Development of cross-border cooperation
Indicators: - Development of cross-border cooperation; - Opening of Common contact centres for police and customs cooperation and exchange of information in the area of the border security with the neighbouring states (CCC with Serbia, Kosovo and Greece) - Opening of new Joint border crossing points and performing of common border controls with the neighbouring countries (JBCP Belanovce/Stancic, JBCP Pelince / P. Pcinski, JBCP Jazince/ Globocica) - Increase in the efficiency of the detection and prevention of the illegal migration and cross-border crime; - Decrease in the percentage of cross-border crime; - Increase in the efficiency of and reduction in the time needed for performing the anticipated border controls at border crossing points. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
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Time frame: 2014 - 2016
Notes:
Activity 2: Materially technical equipment of the Border Police
Indicators: - Increased mobility, operability and efficiency of border patrol services; - Improved residence and working conditions in the organizational units of the Border Police; - Facilitated communication of employees; - Increase in the percentage of discovered criminal acts and suppressed attempts for smuggling of goods and illegal crossing of the state border Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: - Sophisticated resources for border surveillance and border controls; - Terrain motor vehicles;
Activity 3: Advanced and specialized trainings for the subjects of the Border Police according to the annual training plan.
Indicators: - Well trained personnel for efficient and effective performing of the police matters in the area of border duty; - Professional profiling when identifying victims and perpetrators of criminal acts; - Reinforced cooperation with the citizens; - Increase in the percentage of detected criminal acts in all of the areas of cross-border crime; - Increased traffic flow and reduced waiting time at border crossing points; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes:
Activity 4: Elaboration of a new Law on Foreigners and Amendments and Supplements to the Law on Border Control in order to achieve accordance with the Schengen Border Code
Indicators: - Decentralized budget activity in the regional centres for border affairs; - Reduced costs for the current activity as well as active maintenance of the premises; - Percentage of saving in material costs on each basis. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
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Notes:
Activity 5: Participation in the joint operations organized by FRONTEX, DCAF and other relevant international organizations
Indicators: - New experiences acquired on organizational and individual level in the area of border duty; - Subjects for border duty trained according the EU standards; - Subjects of the border police prepared for participation in joint international operations in the area of border security; - Number of realized joint operations; - Number of police officers from the Border Police who participated in joint operations led by FRONTEX Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes:
GOAL: Rounding out of the process of reforms in the police
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Strategy for police training 2011-2014
Indicators: - Training for preparing for independent work when concluding employment agreements with seven or more persons in the Ministry who become employed for the first time (training for office apprentices); - Basic training for candidates for police officers; - Training for preparing of workers for independent work on a specified working place; - Continuous training; - Training for field graders; - Training for application of the new Law on Criminal Proceedings on central level; - Training for mentors; - Training for trainers for continuous training; - Training for the leaders in defence techniques; - Training for field examiner. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
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Notes:
Activity 2: Training structure, organization and managing
Indicators: - Implementation of the rulebook for training Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: The trainings in the Centre for Trainings for 2013 2014 are planned according to the Strategy for Training of the Ministry, the Strategic Plan of the Ministry and the Strategy on Managing with Human Resources, according to the specifications in the areas covered by the trainings and on the basis of previously prepared Education programmes and plans.
Activity 3: Promotion of the normative framework
Indicators: - Promulgation of the Law on Amendments and Supplements of the Law on Arms and Weapons in Parliamentary proceeding second lecture; - Promulgation of the Law on Identification Number in parliamentary proceeding second lecture; - Draft Law on Amendments and Supplements of the Law on Foreigners submitted to the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, meaning the procedure for its promulgation has been commenced.
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes:
GOAL: Rounding out of the process of reforms in the police. Professional police service, which will enable law enforcement and respect of the human rights and freedoms.
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Strengthening of the capacities of the Sector for Internal Control and Professional Standards and projection for strengthening of the institutional capacities
Indicators: - Increased efficiency in the detection of the non-professional and illegal behaviour of the subjects of MOI; - Increase in the percentage of the solved illegal behaviours of subjects of MOI; - Established cooperation with the PPO and the other state authorities in charge of law enforcement; - Instated system of inter-sphere cooperation in MOI. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: 2013
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Notes: In order to strengthen the capacities of the Sector for Internal Control and Professional Standards and the professional preparation of the employees, in March and June 2013 in Gevgelija, in organization of the Programme within the Section for Justice of USA ICITAP, SICPS sent 7 participants to a five-day advanced training Advanced enquiry and interview techniques.
Activity 2: Promotion of the cooperation with the services for internal control from the region
Indicators: - Signing Memorandums of Cooperation between the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Macedonia and the other Ministries of the Interior from the region in the Area of Internal Control. - Established system of international cooperation. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: A Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Macedonia and the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Albania was signed on 17 May 2013 in order to strengthen the international cooperation in the area of internal control.
Activity 3: Prevention in the duty of the Sector for Internal Control and Professional Standards (SICPS) and cooperation with the Ombudsman and the nongovernmental sector
Indicators: - Continuation of the cooperation with the Ombudsman and the nongovernmental sector and realization of joint training of the SICPS together with the representatives of the nongovernmental organizations and the Office of the Ombudsman and joint controls of police stations of general competence. - Reduction of the number of illegal behaviour of the subjects of the MOI - Reinforced confidence of the citizens in the police - Establishing an open day event for contacts with the citizens - Acting upon the recommendations of the Ombudsman, and on account of understanding the conditions by respecting the human freedoms and rights of the persons who were called, brought and held in the police stations. Fiscal implications Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes:
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GOAL: Strengthening the confidence of all of the communities in the police - Developed partnership between the citizens and the police - Developed partnership between the citizens and the police, increase in the confidence of all of the communities in the police, affirming of the principle community policing - Developed transparent system of public relations; - Finalized equitable representation of all of the communities in the police; - Strengthening the capacities of the police for working with persons with special needs (children, women, victims of domestic violence);
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Implementation of the strategic priorities in the area of prevention via Building partnership citizens - police
Indicators: - Meetings with advisory groups of citizens - Participation in the activity of the Local Councils for Prevention - Identification of problems in the community and development of strategies for influence on the problems before the arise of consequences development of project activities for influence on the identified problems and risk factors in the community. - Increase in the degree of confidence in the police and level of cooperation between the police and the community - Prevention and project measures and activities in direction of prevention of socio-pathologic and delinquent phenomena in the community. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: The project Police and citizens together whose scope comprises different target groups (students, elderly people, parents, members of shooting associations, members of motor clubs, citizens of agricultural regions, presidents of urban and local communities etc.) is active during the period 2013/2014. The goal of the activities is: - to promote a more active cooperation with the citizens - to influence through the education of the awareness of the citizens on the positive aspects of the respect for the legal provisions - to act preventively with a larger scope of sides that are included - to include proactively the citizens in the identification of the problems, and the process of solving should include all of the competent subjects.
Activity 2: Implementation of the Project National base of projects and programmes for prevention
Indicators: - Developed basis for projects and programmes for prevention, by making a manual on best practices from implemented projects in all of the Sectors for Internal Affairs - Training of police officers from the Sections for prevention - Opening of a special link on the web page of the MoI, which will be used to follow up the field activities of the sections for prevention (education workshops, campaigns, roundtables etc.). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: 2014
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Notes: A manual on the best practice in successfully implemented projects in 2011/2012 will be prepared in cooperation with the sections for prevention. The activity is anticipated in the conclusions of the conference held in June 2012, which was attended by Heads of SIAs and the Head Inspectors Managers of the Sections for Prevention.
Activity 3: Rounding out of the equitable representation of all of the communities in the police
Indicators: - Introduction of appropriate ethnic representation at the MoI - Introduction of appropriate ethnic representation at the SIA in the regional units Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: The percentage representation of the subjects from ethnic groups within the total number of employees at the MoI is the following: Macedonians 77.62%, Albanians 17.87%, Serbs 1.58%, Turks 0.72%, Roma 0.68%, Vlachs 0.06% and others 1.43%.
GOAL: Usage of the resources from the EU Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Integrated border management IPA 2008
Indicators: - Implementation of the TETRA standards finalization of the question on construction authorizations for all of the locations intended to be covered by the TETRA network. - Upgrading border police stations part of the border with Serbia, Kosovo and Albania - Finished reconstruction of all of the Police Stations for Securing Border Crossing Point Strezimir, Dzepiste, Frangovo, Lake control Ohrid, Stenje, Labuniste, Popova Sapka, Caska and Gosince. A commissioning was performed when the reconstruction was finished. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
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Notes: - Further support of the implementation of the TETRA standards the procedure for obtaining construction authorization is in progress regarding the chosen locations for the construction of the TETRA network (approval from the local municipalities is necessary for the completion of this process). - Upgrading of the border police stations part of the border with Serbia, Kosovo and Albania the implementation of this component has finished - The project for integrated border management is in the phase of realization of Component 1 Support for the implementation of the TETRA system in the future, IPA 2008 has finalized successfully the second phase on 21 February 2013. The project reached the anticipated successful results. The coverage increased from 60 % to 80 % (regarding the radio stations in the vehicles) and from less than 40 % to 60 % (on different terminals) next to the coverage of nearly 95 % of the population, at the same time providing complete integration of TETRA 1 and TETRA 2 communications. - The reconstruction of all of the police stations on the border crossing points for border security of the state were finalized regarding the following: Strezimir, Dzepiste, Frangovo, Lake control Ohrid, Stenje, Labuniste, Popova Sapka, Caska and Gosince. The final commissioning of the reconstruction was finished regarding the constructions in Labuniste, Popova Sapka, Caska and Gosince.
Activity 2: Building of capacities of the institutions in charge of law enforcement for appropriate treatment of the persons held in or brought in IPA 2009
Indicators: - Agreement signed on 30 November 2012 Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: 30 November 2013 beginning of the project (24 months)
Notes: - The implementation of the project started by signing of the Agreement on 30 November 2012. there was a delay while the negotiations between the Council of Europe and the MFA concerning the creation of the Council of Europes Programme Office in Skopje. - An initial mission was organized in cooperation with the MoI during the period 26 February1 March 2013, in order to review and evaluate the actual changes and remaining shortages in the police according to the recent changes and remaining lacks in the police and the penitentiary areas, especially in the areas, which should be solved according to the description of the activity of the project (cancelled due to prolongation of the implementation of the project). - The official project enabled event and first Meeting of the Management committee held in Skopje on 14 June 2013. The implementation of the project is according to the revised project work plan. The activities in relation with the anticipated result 1 and 2 are in progress. All of the activities were undertaken as anticipated and planned in accordance with the revised project work plan.
Activity 3: Support of the reform of the police and the criminal law IPA 2009
Indicators: - Preparation of the final version of the Work Plan and Agreement, the procedure of signing is in progress. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: Fiscal implications: 1 August 2012 Agreement is signed and approved 7,600,000 euros September 2012 Commencement of the project (18 months) 1) 5,200,000 euros (400,000 euros national co-financing) 2) 2,400,000 euros (1,250,000 euros national co-financing)
Notes: - The implementation of the project began on 3 September, when the Permanent Twinning Advisor (PTA) arrived in Macedonia. The first component nineteen Standard operational procedures for usage on central, regional and local levels were developed. The trainings of the police in Macedonia were carried out according to the existing laws, policies and procedures. The twinning partners from the United Kingdom in role of experts discussed the draft programme for training in the agreed areas from the criminal investigation within the new criminal proceeding. Some decisions were made regarding these issues. The training will take place during August, September, October and November. - The issues regarding the second component Analysis of the organizational structure, contamination were resolved. There were many recommendations. The consultation on the best practices and procedures and one-day training of the Police Centre for Training Idrizovo were held. The Forensics Department chose the participants in the training. 5 prosecutors also took part in the training. The training was well received. The training and the education programme were agreed with the Head of Forensics. The trainings for criminal technique will be held in September and October, and the cyber forensics training will be held in November. The project should be realized within the period.
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Fiscal implications: 2,100,000 euros (200,000 euros national co-financing)
Activity 4: Integrated border management finishing of the implementation of the TETRA standards IPA 2009
Indicators: - Evaluation in order to select the best offer, followed by signing of Agreement and commencement of project activities at the beginning of 2013, and the project is expected to last 24 months. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: 25 March 2013 commencement of the project (24 months)
Notes: - This project started its realization on 25 March 2013 and should finish on 25 March 2015. The first meeting was held on 27 March 2013. Registering of the project, entry permits and other administration issues in relation with the contractors have been completed. Within the already mentioned project, the consultation Vialto will conduct a research, conceptual design, preparation of technical specification and tender documentation for supplying, publishing and conveying of the tender procedure, as well as monitoring and supervision of the process of installation of the technical equipment and construction materials. - The project is under continuous time pressure (Phase 1 and 2 should be implemented within 14 weeks instead of the initial 21-2 weeks according to the Agreement). The contractor also performed at the same time several professional activities, initially planned for later, in order to fulfil all of the challenging deadlines. The tender documentation for supplying of goods was prepared within the settled period. The evaluation of the offers will begin on 17 October 2013. - The technical specification was prepared and approved on 28 June 2013. The tender file was approved and published on 14 August 2013.
Activity 5: Further strengthening of the institutional capacity in the police service IPA 2010
Indicators: - Elaboration of project tasks (ToP) for the project Further strengthening of the institutional capacity in the police service. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Time frame: 2013 commencement of the project (12-18 months)
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Notes: Main components in the strengthening of the institutional capacity in the police service IPA 2012 are as follows: - Strengthening of the operational capacities of the border police in the fight against smuggling - Development of the capacities of the Section for organized crime - Strengthening of the capacities for combating against financial and cyber crime - Strengthening of the capacities for general competence of the uniformed police The realization of the projects is aimed at improving of the operational efficiency of the border police, strengthening of the capacities for development of anti-corruption standards within the Centre for Combating of Organized and Serious Crime, as well as safe and efficient managing of classified information and development of skills for the uniformed police for efficient and effective daily activities. The project task (ToP) is elaboration and submission of: - Agreement on Prognosis published on 11 June 2012 - Notification for supplies published on 13 February 2013 - Complete tender documentation submitted to DEU on 31 July 2013 - The tender documentation was rejected by DEU on 14 August 2013
GOAL: The project will provide strategic analysis for cooperation between the police services from the EU member states
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Comparative investigations for police in the European Union - COMPOSITE
Indicators: - Interviews conducted with members of the Ministry of the Interior as part of the activities provided in Work package 2 - Activities continue in 2012 and 2013 according to the programme for implementation of the project COMPOSITE. - Use of strategic and comparative analysis, specific aims, gained experience and generated knowledge resulting from its implementation. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior and the University St. Kliment Ohridski, i.e. the Faculty of Security
Notes: Stakeholders of the activities are universities from the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Italy, France, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Republic of Macedonia. The main coordinator of activities is the Erasmus University from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, while the main researchers are professors from Western European countries. The project has the aim to provide strategic analysis for cooperation between police services of EU member states. This analysis will be based on gathered statistics and other information from the project participating countries, to be followed by their analysis through special IT software packages and drafting conclusions. In 2012, many activities were undertaken and many interviews conducted (more than 50 employees of the Ministry) as part of activities provided in working packages 4 and 5. For the end user, the Project Board held two meetings (Durham, UK, June 2012 and Potsdam, Germany, December 2012), presenting the current results of the project. In 2013, the Project Board meeting was held on 13 June in Brussels, Belgium.
GOAL: Developing intelligence led policing concept within central, regional and local police services and regional centres for border affairs within the Bureau for Public Security; Strengthening of the capacities of the Centre for suppression of organized and serious crime, especially in view of ambient surveillance.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Rule of Law IPA 2011
Indicators: - Drafted sector fiche for the project Rule of law IPA 2011 - Sector fiche has been approved by the Minister of the Interior and sent to the CFCD for ex-ante approval - The project file has been prepared and sent to the CFCD. Fiscal implications: 2,850,000 euros (217,500 euros national co-financing) Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice
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Time frame: Start: second quarter of 2014 (duration: 24 months)
Notes: For the project Rule of law - IPA 2011 no activities have been undertaken because the financial agreement has not been signed yet. The implementation of this project is expected to start in the second half of 2014.
Activity 2: Sectoral plan for support of the Sector for Justice, Home Affairs and Human Rights - IPA 2012-2013
Indicators: - Drafting Sector fiche - Preparing tender documentation/sector fiche for the project has been prepared Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Justice, Financial Police, Ministry of Labour and Social Policy
Time frame: 2014 - 2015
Notes: Improving the implementation of international and European Union standards, along with the implementation of recommendations in areas such as border control, fight against organized and serious crime, financial crime, EU fund fraud, corruption, money laundering, judicial cooperation, improving the infrastructure needed to satisfy Schengen area requirements, personal data protection and capacity strengthening for prevention of and protection from discrimination.
INTERNAL POLICY 1.12. NORMATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL MEASURES IN THE FIGHT AGAINST ORGANIZED CRIME AND CORRUPTION
GOAL: Strengthened inter-institutional and inter-agency cooperation in the fight against corruption. The aim is one of the key segments for realization of the priority of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia to address the issue of corruption.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Continuous meetings of the Inter-ministerial body for coordination of the activities against corruption
Indicators: - Number of held meetings - Strengthened coordination between relevant institutions that have competence in the fight against corruption - Activities undertaken for realization of the recommendations of the international organizations regarding fight against corruption - Prepared Annual Report for the work of the body submitted to the Government of the Republic of Macedonia Financial implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Justice
Time frame: Continuously
Notes:
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Financial implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia
Activity 2: Activities within the frames of the Fourth round of GRECO evaluation
Indicators: - Conducted visit by the GRECO expert team - Submitted necessary materials for the preparation of the evaluation Report - Implementation of the recommendations which will be determined with the evaluation Report for the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Justice
Notes: All the activities aimed at successful realization of the residual recommendations from the Third round of evaluation have been undertaken. Thus, the implementation is expected to be noted in the Second compliance report for the Third round of evaluation of the Republic of Macedonia, which is expected to be adopted in November 2013. The deadline for realization of the recommendations from the Fourth round of evaluation will be determined by GRECO with the Evaluation report for the Republic of Macedonia.
Activity 3: Established Methodology for relevant statistical system for monitoring the implementation of the anticorruption policy
Indicators: - Prepared Methodology in four phases which are adopted by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia - Conducted trainings - Implementation of the Methodology in a simplified phase (pilot version) - Preparation and implementation of a web application
Financial implications:
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Justice
Notes: The draft Methodology for relevant statistical system for monitoring the implementation of the anticorruption policy encompasses: - Phase I monitoring cases of corruption cases in criminal procedure; - Phase II monitoring cases of corruption cases in misdemeanour procedure, disciplinary procedure and procedure for determining other kinds of liability and other legal measures; - Phase III monitoring the conducting of the activities envisaged with the State programmes for prevention and repression of corruption and prevention and decreasing conflicts of interest, monitoring the conducting of the activities foreseen with the particular programme documents relevant for monitoring of the anticorruption policy, monitoring of conducting risk assessment for corruption (Corruption Risk Assessment) and implementation of the recommendations of audit reports and conducting screening for the training needs aimed at strengthening the personnel capacities for recognition and prevention of corruption and conflicts of interest; - Phase IV parameters and indicators;
Activity 4: Draft Law amending and supplementing the Law on Prevention of Corruption
Indicators: - Established working group for the preparation of the law - Prepared draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Prevention of Corruption Financial implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Justice
Time frame: 2013
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Notes: The amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption are aimed at strengthening the protection of persons who report cases of corruption and arranging the issue of integrity.
Activity 5: Anti-corruption Programme of the Ministry of the Interior
Indicators: - Adoption of new Anti-corruption Programme of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Macedonia for 2014 and Action Plan for its implementation. - According to the Action Plan, realization of the Plan for detection of corruption, illegal and unprofessional actions of employees of the Ministry of the Interior; - Improving the quality of work. - Reduction of the number of criminal acts in the area of corruption. - Respect for human rights and freedoms. - Transparency in the work and getting closer to the citizens - Introduced preventive programmes for prevention of corruption in the Ministry and the police; Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Time frame: 2013 - 2014
Notes:
GOAL: Creating long-term development policies for the needs of the Ministry of the Interior. The aim is to provide standardized approach and procedures for policing.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Criminal investigations and Intelligence Database for serious and organized crime
Indicators: - Set up Criminal Investigations and Intelligence Database for serious and organized crime; - Established foundations of the Criminal Investigations and Intelligence Database and their specification; - Enabled electronic collection, search and analysis of data from the area of organized crime in view of providing for more efficient work of the Centre for suppression of organized and serious crime (CSOSC), inter-institutional and international exchange of information and realization of joint operations; - Internal training of employees at the Criminal Intelligence Analysis Section conducted who will be inserting the data into the database and there will be an appropriate document drafted defining rules of procedures for insertion of data into the database. Financial implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
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Notes: In 2012, the work on the database for investigations continued, conducted by employees at the CSOSC, the Section for criminal intelligence analysis, and with the expert assistance and cooperation from experts from the Turkish service for fight against crime from the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Turkey and OSCE support. In the first half of 2013, the design of the database was finalized (it was tested during the work on its preparation by simulating data insertion). The IT and Telecommunications Department connected the users at the CSOSC OKRA in order to provide development environment of the database, to be followed by testing it in order to remove any errors or eventually extend it. To this aim, internal training of the employees at the OKRA is to be conducted and an appropriate document defining the rules and procedures for data insertion will be drafted.
Activity 2: Introducing Standard Operative Procedures
Indicators: Results to be achieved with Component 1: - Introducing national intelligence model within the Bureau for Public Security; - Reorganizing the organizational units within the Bureau for Public Security at central, regional and local level in order to increase the level of effectiveness and efficiency at the Bureau; - Adopting Manuals and Standard Operative Procedures according to the new Criminal Procedure Law - Increased capacity preparedness level of the Sectors for Internal Affairs (SVRs) and Regional Centres for Border Affairs and Migration for cooperation with the regional Public Prosecution Office, specifically in the area of organized crime. corruption, trafficking in human beings, illegal migration, cross-border crime; - Drafted Train the Trainers Curriculum in accordance with the new criminal procedure and realization of appropriate training; - Training for the end users at the organizational units at the Bureau for Public Security according to their competences; - Better use of resources and achieving better results; - More efficient exchange of information; - Being more proactive than reactive in the work; - Precisely determined competences of all subjects in the work process; - Better risk and working process management;
Measurable indicators in view of Component 1: - Adopted advanced structure of the Bureau for public security at national, regional and local level; - Increased efficiency and effectiveness of organizational units for detection and investigation of organized crime, corruption, trafficking in human beings, illegal migration, cross-border crime compared to the period before the project was implemented; - Adopted SOPs and Instructions, amendments to the existing ones in view of the new Criminal Procedure Law; - Adopted Train the Trainers Curricula by the Director of the Bureau for Public Security and the Public Prosecution Office; - Sufficient number of trained trainers from SVRs, Regional Centres for Border Affairs (including police stations), the CSOSC and the Public Prosecution Office trained in accordance with the new CPL. Activities in view of Component 1 to be undertaken after the finalization of the project in 2014 and 2015: - Training of employees at the Bureau for Public Security Sectors for Internal Affairs (SVRs), Regional Centres for Border Affairs, CSOSC, including police stations throughout 2014; - Revision of the adopted Manuals and SOPs and their harmonization with the new LCP in 2015. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior with OSCE support
Time frame: By the end of November 2013 the projects ends, planned activities for 2014 will start.
Notes: For the time being, within the project there were 15 SOPs drafted by the working teams and in cooperation with foreign experts from Northern Ireland, along with 7 (seven) Manuals and 1 (one) Rulebook for action, one Memorandum on the manner of realization of cooperation with the National Coordination Centre and a draft decision on establishing National Coordination Centre for suppression of organized and serious crime.
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Activity 3: Setting up the National Coordination Centre for exchange of criminal information
Indicators: - Strengthened cooperation with the PPO and other law enforcement agencies; - Established system of inter-agency communication, coordination and cooperation in the fight against CSOSC; - Drafted strategy and an Action Plan; - Drafted Law on National Coordinative Centre; - Following documents are drafted: Memorandum on the manner of cooperation in the National Coordination Centre, draft Decision on Establishing National Coordination Centre for Suppression of Organized and Serious Crime, Standard Operative Procedures for organization, competence and functioning of the National Coordination Centre for organized and serious crime, Standard Operative Procedures for Action in the National Coordination Centre. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Time frame: By the end of 2013
Notes: At the beginning of 2013 by June 2013, work was done on drafting documents regulating the establishment, organization, competence, manner of work, procedures and obligations of the institutions involved in the NCC, specifically the Ministry of the Interior, the PPO, the Customs Administration, the Financial Intelligence Office, the Public Revenue Office and the Financial Police. Representatives of all of these institutions are taking part in the project (stakeholder: Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Macedonia).
GOAL: Strengthening the fight against corruption and organized crime
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Establishing Central Forged Money Investigation Office
Indicators: - Set up Database on Forged Money, - Drafted Instruction on the use of the database, - Training of persons working on the database (tasked with data entry), - Agreement to continue with the trainings for new police officers who will be using the data. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Time frame: The activity is in its final phase of realization
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Notes: The legal framework is about to be adopted. According to the Law on Police it is provided to keep records on forged money, forged euros and other foreign currencies, and to adopt Rulebook on the contents and the manner of records keeping of Police to contain the form and the contents of the template for records keeping of the Police. Amendments are underway in Article 30 of the Law on Police to provide the legal grounds for e-registry Forged Money Database. The training of police officers users of the data in the database will be realized in the period to follow depending on the dynamics of entering data into the database. It is planned to use IPA projects, to assess and detect weaknesses in the work of the Central Investigation Office in the area of forged money, resulting with an initiative to further promote or amend the procedures.
Activity 2: Undertaken activities in the area of organized crime in 2013
Indicators: - Increased number and promoted activities of discovered criminal acts and perpetrators Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Time frame: 2013
Notes: According to the statistics, in the first half of 2013 compared to the same period of 2012, there is an increase in the number of submitted criminal charges 49 (36) by 36.1 %, detected criminal acts 105 (75) by 40 %, reported natural entities 195 (130) by 50 % , i.e. perpetrators of crime 310 (200) by 55 %. Out of the total number of criminally charged natural entities 195, 112 persons or 74%, have been subject to custodial sentence, which speaks sufficiently of the quality of provided evidence against perpetrators of criminal acts. In the first half of 2013, a total of 13 criminal groups were discovered (the same period of last year - 14), involved in different areas of crime violent and serious crime, illegal trafficking with drugs, organized economic crime, computer crime, smuggling of migrants, smuggling of cigarettes etc. active at regional, national and international level.
Activity 3: Project for developing the national criminal intelligence database (NID)
Indicators: - Implementation of the Law on Exchange of information and the Action Plan for NID Development - Unified data and information Fiscal implications: 11,000,000 euros Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Notes: The international NID tender by decision of the Minister of the Interior was annulled, but the activities related to this project are continuing. On 7 June 2012 by decision of the Minister of the Interior, a Working Group was established for amendments of the Technical Specification for development and implementation of a National Intelligence Database.
Activity 4: Promotion of international police cooperation
Indicators: - Assigned liaison officer of the Republic of Macedonia at Europol - Agreement for Operational and Strategic Cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and Europol has been implemented - Implemented Bilateral Agreement for connection of computer networks and Memorandum of Understanding for setting up new secure communication link, procurement of technical equipment, setting up technical parameters, in order to use the communication tool SIENA. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Ministry of Interior Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
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Notes: On 21 March 2013, the Republic of Macedonia became an associate member in two workfiles: AWF/FP Terminal (WF for credit card frauds) and AWF/FP Checkpoint (WF for mediation into illegal migration). In view of deepening of the cooperation and generating tools for better coordination and communication with Europol, a Bilateral Agreement for connection of computer networks and Memorandum of Understanding for setting up new secure communication link were signed, enabling direct connection with the application for secure exchange of information and analysis of Europol networks - SIENA. The Memorandum of Understanding entered into force on 1 May 2012. Activities have been undertaken to create technical preconditions (procuring technical equipment, setting technical parameters) to use SIENA. For the manner of communication and work with the new secure line and the use of SIENA, there will be separate training conducted at the Ministry of the Interior on the Train the Trainers principles which is to be conducted by the end of October 2013.
Activity 5: Strengthened international cooperation for suppression of international crime with the countries from the region and European Union member states in view of witness protection services
Indicators: - Further harmonization of the relevant legislation, - Strengthening practical implementation of the existing national legislative measures, - Improving and facilitating international cooperation, developing operative capacities of Witness Protection sections. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Interior
Notes: The project WINPRO Cooperation in the area of criminal law: witness protection in the area of fight against serious crime and terrorism Regional IPA Programme 2009 was implemented in the period from 30 June 2010-30 November 2012 (29 months) and it included Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia and Macedonia. Continuation of WINPRO is WINPRO II, a project which was officially signed by the European Commission. The project started on 1 December 2012 and it will end on 30 November 2015 (36 months). The Ministry of Justice and the Central Witness Bureau of the United Kingdom are the official partners of NI-CO in the project, and Europol will be cooperating.
GOAL: Establishing a sustainable and complementary system for prevention and suppression of corruption and conflicts of interest by efficient enforcement of the normative framework for prevention and suppression of corruption and conflicts of interest; strengthening the capacities of the institutions for prevention and suppression of corruption and conflicts of interest; promoting the integrity of the civil and public service; efficient and effective cooperation among institutions in the fight against corruption and conflicts of interest at the national and international levels; raising public awareness of the negative effects of corruption and conflicts of interest. The fulfilment of the general and specific goals will ensure higher level of rule of law, efficient functioning of the institutions of the system, efficient and professional civil and public service with a high level of integrity, and greater public awareness.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Continuous implementation of the activities under the State Programme for Prevention and Repression of Corruption and the State Programme for Prevention and Reduction of Conflicts of Interest with Action Plan for the period 20112015 (State Programmes).
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and donations
Indicators: - Data collection twice a year; - Number of implemented activities; Main implementing body/bodies: State Commission for Prevention of Corruption (SCPC); state and local authorities
Notes: The SCPC adopted the State Programmes and Action Plan in November 2011 aiming to establish the sustainable and complementary system for prevention of corruption and conflict of interests in 11 sectors. The Action Plan includes 156 specific activities and the institutions in charge for their implementation. Each activity has activity indicators, priority indicator and time frame for implementation. All institutions have appointed focal points in charge to provide data to the SCPC. The SCPC monitors the implementation of the activities through a webbased application for electronic (online) submission and entry of data on the status of realization of activities. This system ensures efficient collection of data, processing and analysis of the implementation of the activities. The SCPC collects data twice per year (in May and November). Based on that the SCPC produces an interim report (in June) and an annual report (in December) each year. The annual report is presented to the public and to the competent institutions at the annual conferences on the assessment of the implementation of the State Programmes held in February each year. The report prepared by the SCPC in December 2012 shows that one year after the adoption of the State Programmes, out of 156 envisaged activities in the Action Plan, 27 or 17.3 % were fully realized, 66 or 42.3 % were partially realized and 62 or 39.7 % of the activities were not realized. The general overview of the realization of the State Programmes is that the realization of activities is on an adequate level, taking in consideration the priority and time frame of the activities.
Activity 2: Continuous check of the content of the Statements of Interest of officials
Indicators: - Number of checked Statements of Interest; - Adopted new plan and dynamic for checking statements of interest for 2014; Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: State Commission for Prevention of Corruption (SCPC)
Notes: In 2012 the amendments to the Law on Prevention of Conflicts of Interest (LPCI) established new provisions that tasked the SCPC with an obligation to check the contents of the statements of interest of officials under Article 20-a of the Law on Conflicts of Interest. According to the amendments to the LPCI, the Government of the Republic of Macedonia in 2012 adopted a Regulation of the manner of checking the content of statements of interest. Based on the Regulation, the SCPC checks all newly submitted statements of interest and also annually prepares a planned dynamic for checking the declarations of interest of officials delivered before the adoption of theRegulation. In the past period, according to the Planned dynamics for 2012 and 2013, as of July 2013 checked a total of 607 statements of interest. In the next period continues with the checking of the statements of interest and adoption of the new planned dynamic for 2014. Based on the findings, the SCPC will take appropriate actions under the Law on Prevention of Conflicts of Interest.
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INTERNAL POLICY 1.14. COUNTERING NEW SECURITY CHALLENGES
1.14.1 FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM
GOAL: Establishing a contemporary security system of the Republic of Macedonia. Defining the system for national security, mutual coordination and cooperation, strengthening the international cooperation.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: The forming of an Action plan for effectuating the measures and activities envisaged in the National Strategy of the Republic of Macedonia for Fight Against Terrorism is in progress.
Indicators: - The National Strategy for Fight Against Terrorism was adopted by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia on 13 September 2011 - Inter-institutional Working Group for preparation of the Action plan for implementation of the National Strategy was formed - Activities for forming/making the Action plan are ongoing - Drafted first draft of the Action Plan Fiscal implications : Main implementing body/bodies: MoI-UBK
Timeframe: End of 2013
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Notes: The Action plan will enable implementation of the National Strategy of the Republic of Macedonia for Fight Against Terrorism.
Activity 2: Enforcement of continuous activities for fight against terrorism and organized crime, and improving the cooperation with the security-intelligence services and international organizations
Indicators: - Adopting/ratifying international documents, conventions, contracting bilateral agreements, - Participating in training, courses, seminars by everybody involved in the fight against terrorism and organized crime Main implementing body/bodies: MoI-UBK
Notes:
Activity 3: Strengthening the institutional capacities and increasing the professional capacities of the employees
Indicators: - Purchasing modern equipment, - Managing human resources, - Filling vacancies at the Security and Counterintelligence Service, - Organizing trainings, courses and seminars.
Timeframe: Continuously
Fiscal implications: Budget of Ministry of the Interior and projects
Main implementing body/bodies: MoI-UBK
Notes:
GOAL: Raising the security level of the buildings that are of vital importance for the Republic of Macedonia. To realize this objective conducted more exercises in order to provide proper operability of relevant entities included in the national security of the Republic of Macedonia.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1:
Implementation of planned annual exercises and test controls
Indicators: - Planning of drills at the airports and water - Realization of test controls - Involvement of stakeholders from multiple security systems of the country - An analysis of security readiness - Given directions to the appropriate security entities Fiscal implications : Main implementing body/bodies: MoI-UBK
Timeframe: 2013-2014
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Fiscal implications: To be determined
Notes:
1.14.2. INFORMATION SECURITY
GOAL: Strengthening interdepartmental cooperation and increasing the capacities for identifying and dealing with cyber incidents and cybercrime at the national level. Initial activities for designing a National Cyber Security Strategy.
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Requirements of the analysis and framework of the National Cyber Security Strategy
Indicators: - Analysis of the functionalities and competences of institutions - Analysis of the cyber security capacities of institutions - Defining the framework of the National Cyber Security Strategy Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia and in-line ministries and institutions
Time frame: End of 2014
Notes: The Communication is being prepared.
GOAL: Increasing anti-cybercrime capacities and timely provision of evidence at the local level. A programme is being prepared for training of police officers at the local level
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Training of police officers at the local level in timely provision of evidence and conducting cybercrime investigations according to the defined and established Standard Operating Procedures for Digital Evidence and Cybercrime Investigations.
Indicators: - Identifying training needs and users - Identifying training priorities Fiscal implications: To be determined Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior
Notes: This is an EU project in which the Ministry of the Interior has a strong interest.
1.14.3. ENERGY SECURITY
GOAL: Diversification of fuel that will provide reliable and quality power supply to final consumers in the country. Build an efficient, competitive and financially sustainable energy sector to allow competition and new investments.
ACTIVITIES:
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Activity 1: Feasibility study for the development of the distribution network in the country
Indicators: - Number of meetings for the preparation of the feasibility study Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Transport and Communication
Time frame: 2014
Notes:
1.14.4. ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY
GOAL: Implementation of the Programme for Environmental Protection. Protection and improvement of the environment through implementation of Strategies, Programmes and Plans
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Elaboration of Strategies, Plans, Programmes, Studies, Reviews and Reports on environment improvement (Strategy for Nature Protection, Strategy for Waters, SOER, Environmental Performance Review, etc.)
Indicators: - Number of adopted Strategies, Plans and specific Programmes in the area of environment
Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: Some of the strategies and documents will be completed by the end of this year, while other follow-up activities require continuous time period for their improvement and implementation.
Activity 2: Valorization and re-valorization, protected area development, documentation of natural heritage in accordance with the Law on Nature Protection.
Indicators: - Number of addressed and status revalorized protected areas. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: Documentation of natural heritage is underway and this is a permanent process the management of which assumes future activities to be based on the results of prior completed activities for the forthcoming period.
Activity 3: Cooperation with LSGUs and NGOs in environmental projects, active participation of LSGUs in preparation of legislation and conduct of campaigns in the area of environment, strengthening of capacity, investment and environmental state assessment.
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and donations Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Number of implemented projects, participation in preparation of legislation and conduct of campaigns. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: This process requires permanent development and promotion of activities and monitoring of the phase they are in. Some of the mentioned activities will be completed by the end of this year.
Activity 4: Implementation of the Draft Action Plan for implementation of the main tasks under the Convention on Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents and national legislation in the area of industrial accidents prevention and control.
Indicators: - Extent of implementation of the tasks under the Convention and national legislation. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: The legal framework related to the Report on Safety and the one concerning the Plan for preparedness were adopted in April 2013 by the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning. These will enter into force and apply from 1 January 2014. A methodology for development and assessment of the Report on Safety will be defined by the beginning of November 2013. To that end, a workshop will be organized on the Safety Report development in the course of November-December 2013.
Activity 5: Establishment of database of installations and chemicals covered by the Convention on Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents and Council Directive on Accident Hazards with Presence of Dangerous Substances.
Indicators: - Scope of installed database in the subject matter and its putting into operation. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: Permanent ongoing tasks of the Division for Chemicals and Industrial Accidents in the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning include the Survey for operators that treat/store dangerous substances and it has already been distributed to the competent offices of Seveso. Registered operators are obliged to submit and develop Report on Safety and Plan for Preparedness in relation to work involving dangerous substances to the competent authority, i.e. Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning.
Activity 6: Implementation of the National Plan for Implementation of the Strategic Approach in Chemicals Management in international context (SAICM).
Indicators: - Number and functional efficiency of implemented activities. Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
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Notes: Management of chemicals is regular responsibility of the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning and several other institutions and organizations mentioned in the National Plan. The National Plan contains excellent guidelines for establishment of national processes intended for chemical management. Thus, implementation of activities under the National Plan by the competent institutions / organizations is generally underway, with defined time frame.
Activity 7: Active participation in expert projects of UN bodies (UNEP, UNIDO, UNDP, UNESCO, UN Commission for Sustainable Development) and GEF, as well as in the work of the Secretariats of signed international agreements
Indicators: - Number of accomplished, implemented and efficiently applied activities, tasks and obligations. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Notes: Participation in and cooperation with international organizations play an important role in our policy and it is carried out in high quality and efficient manner with status of their simultaneous and successive implementation.
Activity 8: Adaptation to climate change The Third National Communication on Climate Change (TNCCC) is expected to be completed and adopted by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia by the end of 2013. Action Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change of several vulnerable sectors will be part of the National Communication TNCCC. Regional project for adaptation to climate change in the area of the River Drim Basin, implemented through German Technical Cooperation, is being implemented.
Indicators: - Assessment of economic impacts of climate change has been developed for selected areas and it is applied as continuous process. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international donors - Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning - Ministry of Economy - Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy - International organizations in the Republic of Macedonia
Notes: The Third National Communication as process for adaptation to climate change has been almost finalized and reached final procedure for completion and adoption by the Government of the Republic of Macedonia by the end of 2013. Application of the obligations under the TNCCC will start in 2014, and their implementation will be achieved through continuous process. Also, the implementation of the project for adaptation to climate change in the area of the River Drim Basin will commence in 2014 to be accomplished through process of ongoing activities.
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1.14.5. CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION
GOAL: Advancement of the National system for control of export of weapons of mass destruction and dual-use goods and technologies and reducing risks and protecting from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) weapons and materials.
ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1: Wassenaar Arrangement (WA) Membership
Indicators: - Request for inclusion of the Republic of Macedonia in the WA Outreach Programme - Participation in the technical briefing by Macedonian representatives (MFA, MoD and ME) for countries that are not members of the WA (2011, 2012, 2013) - MFA to prepare information for the Government to adopt formal decision to seek membership in WA Main implementing body/bodies: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes:
Activity 2: Establishment of a national coordination body for prevention, risk mitigation and protection from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear weapons and materials (National CBRN Body).
Indicators: - National CBRN Coordination Body established - Holding regular meetings, with a special focus on projects within the EU Centres of Excellence of the CBRN Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Notes: The National CBRN Coordination Body composed of representatives of 15 competent institutions and administration bodies was established on 16 June 2012.
Activity 3: Development of a National Action Plan for implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1540 (UNSCR 1540 non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction)
Indicators: - The National CBRN Coordination Body responsible for drafting the 1540 NAP held several meetings; - Request sent to the UN 1540 Committee and the OSCE for expert assistance; - National CBRN Coordination Body representatives conducted a study visit to Vienna (OSCE HQ, UNODA); - Adoption of 1540 NAP. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies:
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Notes:
1.14.6. CONTROL OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS
GOAL: Consistent and full implementation of the commitments of the Government of Republic of Macedonia to achieve prevention and control of the overall quantity of weapons which circulate on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, in accordance with the regional and international initiatives, standards and documents for control of the weapons, ammunitions, and explosive materials, and also for the purposes of respecting and realization of the programmes and objectives for control of small arms and light weapons on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Amendments to the Law on Weapons aimed at achieving harmonization of the domestic legislation with the legislation of the EU in order to prevent and sanction the illegal possession of weapons and reducing and eradication of the transfer and the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons on the whole territory of Republic of Macedonia.
Indicators: - Harmonization of the Law on Weapons with the Council of Europe Directive on Control of Provision and Possession of Weapons and the EU Directive; - Practical implementation of the amendments of the Law on Armament and Military Equipment which refer to the brokering in cases of trade in weapons;
Timeframe : 2013-2014 Main implementing body/bodies: The Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Commission for Small Arms and Light Weapons of the Republic of Macedonia in cooperation with other relevant state bodies and national (domestic) and international organizations
Fiscal Implication: From the Budget of the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of the Interior and sponsorships and donations by international organizations (UNDP, OSCE, SEESAC)
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia, as a country which strives to become an EU and NATO member state, is obliged to constantly be in compliance with the legal regulation that regulates the issues on weapons and to harmonize it with the EU and NATO regulation. To this end, the Ministry of the Interior established a working group composed of representatives of relevant departments in charge who is taking appropriate measures and actions to control small arms and light weapons on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, which has the task of applying legislation which refers to category D-4 weapon light - sound signals in order to increase the control and general security of citizens. Once the final version of the amendments to the Law on Weapons, they will be submitted to all relevant ministries and government agencies, governmental and non-governmental organizations and will be given a public hearing to further enhance the transparency of the procedure and preparation.
Activity 2: Undertaking measures and activities for practical implementation of the legal acts and the by-laws which cover installation of a new software for keeping records of the licenses for import of weapons on the part of the authorized legal entities which will signify establishing connections of all the legal entities authorized for trade in weapons on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia with a central server at the Ministry of the Interior aimed at continuous monitoring and control of the trade in weapons in and outside the territory of the Republic of Macedonia.
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Fiscal Implications: From the Budget of the Ministry of the Interior and sponsorships and donations by international organizations (UNDP, SEESAC)
Indicators: - The necessity of establishing electronic links of the competent services at the Ministry of the Interior which perform weapon-related activities, all aimed at creation of conditions for fast and efficient realization of the defined tasks, or continuous monitoring and control of the trade in weapons in and outside the territory of the Republic of Macedonia. Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior and legal entities authorized for trade in weapons on the territory of Republic of Macedonia
Timeframe: 2013- 2014
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia, besides the system EXIM for import- export and transit of goods and tariff quotes used by 16 institutions which have competences in the domain of externaltrading, also has a functional system for electronic records of the issued licenses to natural entities. Also, since the end of 2011 and the beginning of 2012 the latest version of the system TRACKER has been installed and used when goods for dual use are concerned. Linking legal entities authorized to trade in weapons in a common system with the Ministry of the Interior would mean upgrading the existing electronic system for recording issued permits for weapons to legal entities and individuals in order to better control the trade in weapons in and beyond the Republic of Macedonia.
Activity 3: Destruction of the found, seized and confiscated weapons taken over from the basic courts on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia for which the criminal and misdemeanour proceedings have been completed by a final court judgment, and simultaneously aimed at reduction of the stockpiles of weapons at the Ministry of the Interior, destruction of weapons for which the competent services estimated that it is disused and wasted.
Indicators: - Established practice at annual level for destruction of the found, seized and confiscated weapons taken over by the basic courts on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia for which the criminal and misdemeanour proceedings have been completed with final court judgments. Fiscal implications: The Budget of the Ministry of the Interior Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice Agency for Managing Confiscated Property
Timeframe: Continuously each year
Notes: The weapons seized in 2013 and 2014 as well as weapons for which a final court decision is made has to be destroyed annually. Usually this is done on 9 July as symbolically marking the World Day for the Destruction of Weapons. For the first time in 2012 in order to reduce the quantities of weapons in the Republic of Macedonia is committed to the destruction of dilapidated and unusable weapons which is recorded in the arsenal of the Ministry of the Interior as official weapons.
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Fiscal implications: The Budget of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and sponsorships and donations by international organizations (OSCE, UNDP, SEESAC)
Activity 4: Raising citizens awareness for the perils of using small arms and light weapons in order to strengthen the necessity of building awareness within the communities regarding this issue and the need of their solidarity and decreased manifestation of the weapons in the community, accompanied with a change of the culture towards weapons. At the same time there is undoubted need for raising awareness among national authorities and the public for the international connectivity regarding the availability of weapons and violence in society.
Indicators: - Use of small arms and light weapons for shooting at wedding celebrations, family festivals or the use of weapons for committing crimes. Main implementing body/bodies: The Ministry of the Interior; The Ministry of Education and Science; Ministry for Local Self-Government.
Timeframe: 2013-2014
Notes: Building better partnership for safe and secure communities, transfer of theoretical basis for creation of a concept of strategy, the means, the methodology, the principles, adoption of appropriate capabilities with practical exercises, creation of synchronization between the different police stations and the rest of the resources whose application will provide establishment and respect of the legal provisions related to the issues regarding the small arms and light weapons. For this purpose we will continue the cooperation with prevention tips and other relevant bodies in the local government for the entire 2013 and 2014. In particular, this activity will be intensified in the period before the 2014 presidential elections.
1.14.7. FIGHT AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN BEINGS AND ILLEGAL MIGRATION
GOAL: Adjustment of the national legislative framework to the international legislative framework. Implementation of the National Strategy for Fight Against THB and Illegal Migration and the National Action Plan 20132016.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Monitoring of international documents and adjustment of national legislative framework to the international legislative framework on trafficking in human beings and smuggling of migrants (THB&SM)
Indicators: - Activities realized according to the National Strategy for Fight Against THB and Illegal Migration and the National Action Plan 20132016 - Number of analyzed documents - Number of filed proposals on amendments of the national legislation Fiscal implications: None Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Justice (MJ), Ministry of Labour and Social Policy (MLSP), Ministry of the Interior (MoI), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Secretariat for European Affairs (SEA)
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Fiscal implications: None
Notes: In order to improve the national legislation regarding the protection of the victims rights an amendment and supplement has been made to the Law on Social Security Art. 145 aiming towards the prolongation of the deadline for accommodation of the victims.
GOAL: Strengthening of the role of the National Commission on local level
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Identification of the target municipalities in which the local commissions for THB & IM shall be formed
Indicators: - Institution of competencies and criteria for membership into the local commissions - Creation of local commissions in cooperation with Units of Local Self-Government (ULSG) Main implementing body/bodies: NC, governmental institutions on local level, Citizens Association (CA)
Time frame: 2013 (the activity is in progress)
Notes: According to the National Action Plan three local commissions on THB & IM are being created in the municipalities of Bitola, Tetovo and Stip
GOAL: Strengthening of international cooperation and coordination between the relevant institutions in the THB & IM area
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Participation to regional meetings and study visits for exchange of good practices and regular meetings of the National coordinators
Indicators: - Number of realized meetings and study visits Fiscal implications: MJ, Public Prosecution Office (PPO), judiciary, MoI, MLSP, CA and donations Main implementing body/bodies: MoI, MLSP, MJ, PPO, judiciary, CA
Notes: Continuous meetings of the national coordinator within the region in order to exchange experiences and good practices.
GOAL: More quality information for pupils (elementary school children) and students (high school) regarding the THB & IM in order to promote awareness about trafficking in human beings/in children and illegal migration as well as promotion of awareness of the vulnerable groups about the THB issue
ACTIVITIES
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Activity 1: Education of the pupils and students on prevention of THB
Indicators: - Number of lectures held - Number of events realized - Organizing prevention activities for the vulnerable groups/children on local level - Functioning of the SOS lines for information and assistance for the vulnerable groups/potential THB victims Main implementing body/bodies: NC, Secretariat, CA, MoI, MLSP, Ministry of Education and Science/ Bureau for Education Development (MES/BED)
Notes: Celebration of 18 October European Day on Fight Against THB and promotion of awareness of the vulnerable groups regarding the THB issue. Celebration of the Fight Against THB Week in the Republic of Macedonia (2-9 December).
Activity 2: Amelioration of the coordination and cooperation between the institutions on central and local levels regarding the identification of, assistance and support to potential victims and risk groups
Indicators: - Number of mobile teams created on local level for identification of, assistance and support of potential victims and risk groups. - Number of persons/risk groups which received assistance and support - Number of addressed potential victims
Fiscal implications: MLSP, MoI, CA, ULSG
Main implementing body/bodies: MLSP, MoI
Notes:
GOAL: Strengthening the capacities of MoI regarding the detection of perpetrators of THB & IM
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Basic and specialized trainings of police officers for the inspectors for minor delinquency for the detection/identification and addressing of potential victims of THB/Children
Indicators: - Two trainings for 25 persons each Fiscal implications: MoI and donations Main implementing body/bodies: MoI
Notes: In cooperation with the German society for cooperation (GIZ) a project has been prepared for a special training of police officers for the inspectors for minor delinquency for detection/ identification and addressing of potential victims of THB/Children, which will be realized by the end of 2014. Two trainings are planned for the following period.
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INTERNAL POLICY 1.15. IMPROVING THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
GOAL: Strengthening the organizational, institutional and functional capacities of the Crisis Management Centre for providing complete administrative and technical support to governmental bodies and Crisis Management System stakeholders.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Security assessment of all risks and dangers in the Republic of Macedonia on municipal level and on the level of the City of Skopje, adoption by municipal councils of the local self-government units.
Indicators: - Security assessment of all risks and dangers in the Republic of Macedonia on local self-government unit level and on the level of the City of Skopje has been prepared. Main implementing body/bodies: Crisis Management Centre Participants: Regional Sections (RS) -RCMC, RS representatives of the stakeholders in the CMC, and representatives of the local selfgovernment units.
Notes:
Activity 2: Implementation of the National Platform for Risk Reduction, establishment of inter-ministerial working group for strategy development in the area of disaster risk reduction.
Indicators: - A strategy for disaster risk reduction has been prepared. Fiscal implications: Yes Main implementing body/bodies: Crisis Management Centre Participants: All stakeholders from the Crisis Management System
Notes: The anticipated financial resources needed for realization of this activity, the Ministry of Finance and the Crisis Management Centre are obliged to ensure them in cooperation with and support from international organizations
Activity 3: Implementation of activities in cooperation with JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) regarding the project Development of integrated system for prevention and early warning from forest fires
Indicators: - Integrated system for prevention and early detection of forest fires Macedonian information system for early warning from forest fires (MKFFIS) based on the Geographical Information System (GIS), has been established, Fiscal implications: Provided in cooperation with JICA Main implementing body/bodies: Crisis Management Centre Participants: Stakeholders from the Crisis Management System
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Fiscal implications: Budget of the Republic of Macedonia and international donations
Time frame: May 2014
Notes: MKFFIS has been functional since 5 July 2013
Activity 4: Implementation of the trilateral programme for cooperation Republic of Macedonia, Republic of Albania and Kosovo
Indicators: - Development of methodology for integrated assessment of risks from disasters, which allows strengthening of national and regional capacities; - Development of sub-regional platform for disaster risk reduction, which will allow networking between the experts on regional level; - Establishment of regional training centres, for education and training in the area of civil security, which will be conducted from experts provided from the three countries; - Establishment of framework for rapid response during crisis is situation, which is a modern system for response, information sharing and networking between the operational centres of the three countries. Main implementing body/bodies: Crisis Management Centre
Notes:
Activity 5: Implementation of the European Emergency Call Number E112
Indicators: - International tenders for selection of the most favourable economic operator for implementation of 112; - Resolving property rights related issues for the buildings intended for 112; - Tender for designing a project plan on calculation for reconstruction of buildings; - Tender for selection of a construction company for reconstruction of buildings and interior design; - Finding the most favourable way to connect the 112 centres; Fiscal implications: To be determined upon concluding the tender procedure and specifications for selecting the implementing company Main implementing body/bodies: Crisis Management Centre Participants: State administrative bodies inter-agency team: Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transport and Communications, Ministry of Health, Protection and Rescue Directorate, Agency for Electronic Communication.
Time frame: Two years from the date of obtaining the funds
Notes: In order to realize this activity, three locations (Skopje, Stip and Prilep) are provided for the E112. Information for the status of implementation was sent to the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and finances have been requested for full implementation of E112. In February 2013 the information was re-submitted with explanation of the need for implementation of E112 as an important segment for timely sharing of information, undertaking measures and activities for resolving risks and hazards.
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INTERNAL POLICY 1.16. BUDGET AND ECONOMY
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
GOAL: Improving business climate, facilitating conditions for doing business and creating a more competitive environment.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Stimulating innovation
Indicators: - Number of measures undertaken under the Action Plan for Implementation of the Strategy for Innovations for the Period 20132015 - Number of companies supported by the Innovation and Technological Development Fund - Number of granted and successfully implemented applications under the Western Balkans Enterprises Development and Innovation Facility Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Macedonia, Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Education and Science, other in-line institutions
Notes:
Activity 2: Direct approach to company needs and initiatives
Indicators: - Number of applications/initiatives carried out under the project Learning from the Business Community - One-stop-shop system established for domestic and foreign investors - Number of users of the one-stop-shop system for issuing permits/licenses Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, institutions responsible for processing applications/initiatives
Time frame: 2010-present
Notes:
Activity 3: Implementing regulatory reforms and improving the business environment
Indicators: - Number of measures implemented under the Regulatory Guillotine project Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Information Society and Administration, institutions responsible for processing applications/initiatives
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Notes:
COMPETITIVENESS OF MACEDONIAN ECONOMY
GOAL: Establishing a high level of economic freedom and equal conditions for operation of economic entities, supporting entrepreneurship, improving the business climate and promoting the competitiveness of Macedonian economy all for the ultimate goal of stimulating economic growth and reducing unemployment
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Measures for improving the competitiveness of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Number of measures undertaken under the Action Plan for Following the Measures for Improving the Competitiveness of the Republic of Macedonia.
Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, other in-line institutions
Notes:
Activity 2: Strengthening the dialogue between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the business community
Indicators: - The National Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Council of the Republic of Macedonia has been established - Number of policies proposed and adopted by the National Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Council Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Economy, National Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Council of the Republic of Macedonia
Notes:
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Activity 3: Cooperation with the international community on improving the competitiveness of the national economy
Indicators: - Number of measures undertaken for connecting the domestic economy with foreign companies/investors by developing a network of providers, training, and research and development - Number of measures undertaken for attracting investments in domestic export-oriented sectors - Number of measures undertaken for strengthening institutional support for promoting export - System established for consolidation of domestic and foreign assistance for small and medium enterprises - Amount of investments in innovation, qualification and training of workforce and raising production and product quality Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Finance, Agency for Foreign Investments and Promotion of Export, Directorate for Technological and Industrial Development Zones, Agency for Supporting Entrepreneurship of the Republic of Macedonia, Macedonian Bank for Development Promotion etc.
Notes:
CHAPTER I I DEFENCE AND MILITARY ISSUES
2.1. TRANSFORMATION OF THE ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA (ARM)
GOAL: Transformation of the Army into an effective, efficient and armed force prepared to respond to contemporary challenges and threats
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Restructuring the commands and units of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia
Achieving final operational capability: - ARM GS by the end of 2013; - Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) by the end of 2014; - Electronic Warfare Centre (EWC) by the end of 2014; - Joint Operational Command (JOC) by 2016; - Active reserve by the end of 2016; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / GS ARM
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Notes: In line with the Dynamic plan for transformation, the transformation has been fully completed in the following commands/units: 1) The Joint Operational Command - The 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the Armoured Battalion (1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade), - The Combat Helicopter Squadron, the Transport Helicopter Squadron and the Military Technical Maintenance Squadron (Air Brigade) - The Signals Battalion, - The Military Police battalion 2) The Honour Guard Battalion 3) The Special Operations Regiment.
Activity 2: Implementation of the 2012 PG Package
Indicators: - Implementation of the 36 Partnership Goals - Development of units and capabilities for contribution to NATO-led operations: - One Medium Infantry Battalion Group; - Two medium lift helicopters; - One light manoeuvre treatment facility Role 2; - One long-range reconnaissance company; - Two special operations teams; - One MP company; - Two engineering platoons;
- One demining team; - Training of land and air forces in accordance with NATO standards - Adopting the new Partnership Goals Package 2014 (in the course of the first half of the 2014) Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes: The status of certification of each of the declared forces is given in the table: LEVEL 1 NATO Evaluation October 2008 May 2012 October 2013 October 2008 May 2008 October 2008 October 2010 Delayed May 2009 October 2010 October 2013 October 2009 October 2010 October 2013 No April 2014 October 2013 April 2014 October 2009 October 2010 October 2013 Self-Evaluation NATO Evaluation CERTIFICATE (validity) May 2008 April 2011 May 2013 May 2008 May 2007 LEVEL 2
Evaluation Unit
Self -Evaluation
Medium infantry battalion
Medium infantry battalion group
LMTF-Role 2
MP Company
Long Range Reconnaissance Company
October 2007
Helicopter Detachment
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The evaluation of the ARM declared forces is done according to the Operational Capabilities Concept OCC and C Forces Standards - The Combat Readiness Evaluation - CREVAL.
Activity 3: Development of Medium Infantry Battalion Group (MIBG)
Indicators: - Self-evaluation of the MIBG Level 2 (October 2013); - NATO Evaluation Level 2 (April 2014);
Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
Notes:
Activity 4:
Development of a Light Manoeuvre Treatment Facility (LMTF) Role 2
Indicators: - NATO evaluation Level 1 of the LMTF (October 2013); - Evaluation, verification, certification of the LMTF Role 2 (April 2014);
Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
Notes:
Activity 5: Development of integrated air policing capabilities and capacities
Indicators: - Signing the Technical Agreement with SHAPE for the ASDE programme (by the end of 2013); - Developing a pre-acquisition procurement study for the 3D radar as part of the Balkan Regional Approach to Air Defence - Balkan Regional Approach to Air Defence initiative; - In 2014, the ASOC will start with procurement of equipment and its integration with the training package. - By the end of 2023, air policing system connected to NATO through Air Surveillance Data Exchange (ASDE) Programme will be established. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
Notes:
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Activity 6: Upgrade and modernization of the global communication information system
Indicators: By the end of 2015, the following network information services will be introduced: - Geographical meteorological assessment; - Military medical information system; - Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) capabilities; By the end of 2019, the following network information services will be introduced: - Joint operations command and control system; - System for exchange of information with joint domain; - Intelligence command and control system; - Operational situation monitoring system; - Resource Tracking System. hardware during 2013. Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
Notes:
Activity 7: Development of individual and collective capacities and capabilities for dealing with chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) armament
Indicators: - Development of reconnaissance capabilities in conditions of use of CBRN (by the end of 2016); - Development of individual capacities and capabilities to deal with CBRN (by the end of 2020); - Development of collective capacities and capabilities to deal with CBRN weapons for mass destruction (by the end of 2020). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
Notes:
Activity 8: Development of Non-Lethal capacities and capabilities
Indicators: - Acquisition of non-lethal weapons for control of personnel, equipment, infrastructure elements, facilities and zones in order to reduce losses, limit collateral damages and improve force protection (by 2017) - Establishment of the Non-Lethal Weapons Centre primarily to meet the national needs and it should be offered as a regional centre (by 2023). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: ARM GS/MoD
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Notes: - Initially this goal is supported by the US FMF Programme.
2.2. HUMAN RESOURCES
GOAL: Continuous development of the human resource management system
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Attraction, recruitment and retention of well-educated and trained personnel
Indicators: - Maintaining 90 % manned units of the ARM with professional military personnel; - Implementation of the Programme for Appropriate and Equitable Ethnic Representation at the MoD and ARM; - Increase of the gender representation in the ARM (implementation of UN Resolution 1325); - Continuous development of human resource management. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 2: Achieving appropriate and equitable ethnic representation
Indicators: - Programme for appropriate and equitable ethnic representation in the ARM and MoD; - Increase of the representation in the Special Operations Regiment (officers, officers and professional soldiers); - Increasing the representation of military personnel from the ethnic communities, especially in the officer ranks; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes: - The current structure of the personnel from the ethnic communities at the MoD (31 August 2013) amounts to 19 %, while in the ARM it is 26.63 % (officers 18.46 %, NCOs 27.31 %, professional soldiers 29.94 %).
Activity 3: Increase of gender representation in the ARM
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Indicator: - The National Action Plan for implementation of UN Resolution 1325; - The programmes for implementation of UN Resolution 1325 and related documents; - Training on gender sensibility and training of personnel sent to missions abroad; - The programme on equal opportunities of men and women at the MoD and the ARM; - Including the gender aspect in all forms of training related to the education system part; - Including the gender principle in all strategic and planning documents at the MoD and the ARM (related to the PPBES and other planning documents); - Implementation of PG G 4590 Gender Perspectives. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 4: Implementation of the LEPEZA Programme
Indicators: - Including the personnel whose service in the Army has ended and who meet the legal conditions of the LEPEZA Programme; - Realization of the planned activities under the cooperation agreement of the MoD of the Republic of Macedonia and the Kingdom of Norway; - Transition Activities Plan (2013-2014); Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Time frame: Continuous obligation from the Army Service Law
Notes:
Activity 5: Establishment of reserve forces
Indicators: - Establishment of the active reserve in accordance with the Reserve Force Concept; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Time frame:
Notes:
2.3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING
GOAL: Improvement of continuous education and training for ARM and MOD personnel to achieve the ARM Missions and MOD goals and tasks
Activity 1: Education and training of officers
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Fiscal implications: Study year 2009-2010 35 cadets 10 students 6 cadets (Montenegro) 45 persons 46 persons 10 students 30 cadets 30 cadets 10 students 4 cadets (Montenegro) 44 persons Study year 2010-2011 Study year 2011-2012 25 cadets Study year 2012-2013 35 persons
Indicators: - The education of the officers for the ARM needs for the first cycle of studies is conducted in continuity at the Military Academy in duration of four years. For the study year 2013-2014, admission of 26 cadets from the Republic of Macedonia is planned. - At the Military Academy as assistance in the education in the Republic of Macedonia, cadets from the countries in the region are educated as well, 3 cadets from Kosovo, 2 cadets from Montenegro and 3 cadets from Bosnia and Herzegovina; - The Military Academy also provides education for the second cycle of studies postgraduate (master studies); - Command Staff Academy is organized at the Military Academy to educate officers for command staff duties; - The officers are educated at Command Staff Academies abroad; - The education of officers in national defence schools (Defence College) is done abroad; Main implementing body/bodies: MoD, MA and ARM GS
Notes: On 31 July 2013, 34 cadets from the 13th class were promoted to first lieutenants, first after the reactivation of the MA in 2009. Total 120 cadets 30 students 3 cadets (Montenegro) 3 cadets (Bosnia and Herzegovina) 4 cadets (Kosovo) 20 cadets
For ARM needs
For the needs of the Protection and Rescue Directorate and the Crisis Management Centre
For the needs of regional countries
Total
170 persons
Activity 2: Education and professional training of civilian and military personnel from the MoD and ARM
Indicators: Memorandums of Cooperation in regards to education and professional training of civilian and military personnel from the MoD and ARM for the first cycle of studies have been signed with: - The State University in Tetovo - The First Private University FON Memorandums of Cooperation in education and professional training of civilian and military personnel from the MoD and ARM for the second cycle of studies have been signed with: - The University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje - The State University in Tetovo - The First Private University FON - The South-Eastern European University A Memorandum of Cooperation in the area of education and professional training for civilian and military personnel from the MoD and ARM for the third cycle of studies has been signed with the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
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Activity 3: Activities of the Public Affairs Regional Centre
Indicators: - Basic public affairs courses x 2 - Communications skills and media training x 2 - Media Training for Crisis Communication - Media trainer basic 2 In 2014, the process of NATO accreditation of certain courses at the centre will begin. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD
Notes:
Activity 4: Activities of the TC Dr. Joseph Cruzel
Indicators: - 28 trainings for civil servants (in the course of 2014); - Continuing the interdepartmental cooperation (2013 - 2014); - Intensifying the cooperation with other higher education institutions in the country (2013-2014); - Developing a programme for professional development of leaders/managers at the MoD and the Army of the Republic of Macedonia (by the end of 2013); - Implementing the annual programme for training of civil servants for 2014.
Main implementing body/bodies: MoD, ARM GS
Notes: - In 2013, activities to provide possibilities for professional development and training of MOD and ARM personnel and other institutions were successfully accomplished. 11 were accomplished with participation of 306 personnel; - In 2013, the successful cooperation with the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje, the University of Goce Delcev in Stip and the University of St. Clement of Ohrid in Bitola, (Faculty of Security in Skopje) continued in the part of providing experts/lecturers for the training.
Activity 5: Learning Foreign Languages
Indicators: - Manning systematized 3 (three) working positions, testers, in the 6001 STANAG Team; - Technical equipping and training for conduct of the overall process for implementation of the STANAG 6001; - Improving language skills and conducting the testing according to the NATO STANAG 6001 with priority to the deployed and declared units (2013-2014); - Preparing a comprehensive long-term plan for enhancement of the English language at the MoD and ARM; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD, ARM GS
Notes:
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Activity 6: Planned exercises in 2013 and 2014
STEADFAST JAZZ 2013 (Kingdom of the Netherlands and Kingdom of Norway) - 1. Participants: 3 staff officers from ARM GS. - 2. Period: 28 October - 9 November 2013 BALKAN COUNTRIES COMBINED JOINT SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES EXERCISE EAGLE 13 (Republic of Serbia) - 1. Participants: 16 persons from the SOR - 2. Period: 20-26 October 2013 MISSION READINESS EXERCISE (FR Germany) - 1. Participants: 100 officers and soldiers. - 2. Period: 2 November 18 December 2013 CHALLENGE 13 (Republic of Macedonia) - 1. Participants: 50 officers and soldiers from the ARM GS and JOC - 2. Period: 19 September - 1 October 2013 COMBINED ENDEAVOUR 2014 (Germany) - 1. Participants: 20 officers from the ARM GS and JOC - 2. Period: September 2013 VIKING 14 (Sweden and Serbia) - 1. Participants: 10 officers from the ARM GS - 2. Period: 31 March 11 April 2014
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RAPID TRIDENT 14 (Germany) - 1. Participants: 10 officers from the ARM GS - 2. Period: 15-30 June 2014 CHALLENGE 14 (Republic of Macedonia) - 1. Participants: 50 officers and soldiers from the ARM GS and JOC - 2. Period: September 2014 LOGEX 15 (Bosnia and Herzegovina) - 1. Participants: 10 officers from the ARM GS, JOC - 2. Period: November 2014 JACKAL STONE 14 (location TBD) - 1. Participants: 16 officers and soldiers from the SOR - 2. Period: 2014 IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 2014 (Slovenia) - 1. Participants: 10 officers from the ARM GS and JOC. - 2. Period: November 2014 MRE (COIN) - 14-03 GEO IN BNs (Germany) - 1. Participants: 30 officers and soldiers from the SOR - 2. Period: 11 February14 March 2014 MISSION READINESS EXERCISE - 14-05 MAT/PAT (Germany) - 1. Participants: 120 officers and soldiers from the ARM GS. - 2. Period: Second quarter of 2014 MISSION READINESS EXERCISE - 15-02 MAT/PAT (Germany) - 1. Participants: 120 officers and soldiers from the ARM GS. - 2. Period: fourth quarter in 2014 SEVEN STARS 2014 (Greece) - 1. Participants: 10 staff officers in the brigade command (JOC and GS) - 2. Period: November 2014 BALKAN COUNTRIES COMBINED JOINT SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES - EXERCISE - EAGLE 14 (Turkey) - 1. Participants: 16 persons from the SOR - 2. Period: 2014 JOINT REACTION 14 (Albania) - 1. Participants: 30 officers and soldiers from the SOR - 2. Period: June 2014 EXERCISES IN THE CONTEXT OF PREPARATION FOR EU BG II/2014 - 1. According to separated plan Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 7: Training pilots in the Pilot Training Centre
Indicators: - Training 52 pilots for the period of 8 years; - The first group of 4 pilots is in the final phase of training. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 8: Development and improvement of CIMIC capabilitiesCourses for professional development of NCOs in ARM
Indicators: - Full integration of the personnel and sections in the command and control system in the commands and units on all levels (by the end of 2013); - Establishing Standard Operative Procedures and training of personnel on operational and tactical levels (2014-2015); - Improving CIMIC capabilities (2014-2015). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD, ARM GS
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Notes: - By establishing the ARM GS/J-9 the starting basis was made for planned and coordinated attainment of the activities and obligations deriving from CIMIC. - In 2012, a pool of 70 persons was formed, experts in the defined areas foreseen with the PG G-3784 (CIMIC Functional Specialists), for participation in peace missions abroad within the composition of the ARM.
2.4. CONTRIBUTION TO INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS
GOAL: Maintaining long-term contribution to international operations
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Participation in the ISAF mission in Afghanistan
Indicators: - Contribution with mechanized infantry company, staff officers and task force for partnership and mentoring; - Withdrawal of military personnel and equipment (in coordination with NATO); Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia has continuously participated in the ISAF mission since 2002.
Activity 2: Coordination Centre of the Republic of Macedonia for providing logistic support to KFOR
Indicators: - Logistic Support to KFOR through the Coordination Centre of the Republic of Macedonia Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia has continuously provided logistic support to NATO KFOR in Kosovo since 1998.
Activity 3: Participation in the EU operation ALTHEA in B&H
Indicators: - Participation in the EU operation ALTHEA with a medical team and legal advisor Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia has continuously participated in the ALTHEA mission since 2006
Activity 4:
Participation in the UNIFIL operation in Lebanon
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Indicators: - Participation in the UN mission UNIFIL in Lebanon with a staff officer. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes: The Republic of Macedonia has continuously participated in the UNIFIL mission since 2006.
Activity 5: Participation in the activities of the EUBG II/2014
Contribution with: - Force Protection Company, - Staff Officers, - National Support Element The Government of the Republic of Macedonia has reached a decision to participate in the EUBG II/2014 Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
2.5. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
GOAL: Expanding and enhancing the international cooperation bilaterally, regionally and multilaterally
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Bilateral defence cooperation
Indicators: - Implementation of the bilateral plans for defence cooperation for 2013 and 2014. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes: Strategic partnership with the USA, Plans and programmes for bilateral cooperation have been signed with the following countries: Austria, Albania, B&H, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Denmark, Italy, Kosovo, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Serbia, Turkey, Hungary, France, Holland, Ukraine, Montenegro, Croatia, Czech Republic and Spain.
Activity 2: Enhancing defence cooperation with NATO
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Indicators: - 3 partner staff officers in NATO: - 2 JFC Naples ; - 1 MPD SHAPE; Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS, MFA and MoI
Notes:
Activity 3: Participation in the Adriatic Charter
Indicators: - Plan for cooperation in the A5 format; - Continuation and development of the defence cooperation within A5; - Development of projects in the spirit of Smart Defence; Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 4: Participation in the Southeast Europe Defence Ministerial process (SEDM) and the South-East Europe Brigade (SEEBRIG)
Indicators: - Contribution in SEEBRIG with projects and political consultation on expert and higher levels; - Political Advisor to the SEEBRIG Commander; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 5: Participation in the South East Europe Clearinghouse Initiative Forum for Defence cooperation of the Western Balkan countries
Indicators: - Contribution to the Clearinghouse Initiative with projects and political consultations on expert and higher levels, - Participation in training and courses at the training centres recognized by the member states of this initiative. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
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Activity 6: CHOD Forum of the Balkan countries
Indicators: - Participation in conferences of GS Chiefs of Balkan countries (2013-2014) and exercises deriving from this forum. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Time frame : Continuous
Notes:
Activity 7: Participation and contribution to RACVIAC Centre for Security Cooperation
Indicators: - Contribution to RACVIAC - Security Cooperation Centre with projects and political consultation on expert and higher levels, in training - Contribution to courses according to the annual programme of the Centre Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/MFA
Notes:
Activity 8: Monitoring of activities under the Vienna document 2011 in the OSCE communication network
Indicators: - Continuous monitoring of activities under the Vienna document 2011 in the OSCE communication network; - Distribution of regular reports through appropriate formatted notifications to the OSCE; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/MFA
Notes:
Activity 9: Destruction of cluster munition stock
Indicators: - Implementation of the Decision of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia to destroy cluster munition stocks; - Destroying mines for mortar 120 mm 93 and air bomb BKF 2,5; Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Government of the Republic of Macedonia and MoD/ARM GS
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Notes: - The destruction of cluster munition stocks started in September 2013. - Under the obligations that the Republic of Macedonia has undertaken as a signatory of the Cluster Munitions Convention (Oslo Convention) and for implementation of the Decisions of the Republic of Macedonia to destroy the cluster munition stock in cooperation with representatives of the non-governmental organization Norway Peoples Aid deliberation of a mortar mine 120 mm 93 and air bomb BKF 2,5 was carried out and their destruction is under monitoring
2.6. LOGISTIC SUPPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
GOAL: Improvement of the defence logistic system
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Development and improvement of the Logistic Support Concept and the National Support Element (NSE) Concept
Indicators: - Development of the Logistic Support Strategy - Continuation of the logistic reforms necessary to provide capabilities in support of the defence system, missions and tasks. Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 2: Development of the National Support Element (NSE)
Indicators: - Establishing initial components (modules) for the NSE (by the end of 2013); - Fully met needs for equipping, manning and training (by the end of 2016). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 3: Implementation of the Logistics Information System (LIS)
Indicators: - Medical Management Information System (MMIS) integrated with NATO medical information system as part of the LIS (2013-2014) - Maintaining and upgrading the LIS through the Hewlett-Packard maintenance programme (by July 2014); - The expected metrics of performances until 2014 will be: - Modernized process of preparation, processing and transfer of data for the Command and control needs; - Increased efficiency, speed, preparation, processing and transfer of logistic documents; - Implementation of the second phase of the LIS Maintenance Management Module (by the end of 2015); - Implementing the third phase Transport Management Module (by the end of 2017). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
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Notes:
Activity 4: Codifying equipment and spare parts
Indicators: - Continuing with the activities for membership in NATO Codification Committee - AC 135 in order to provide exchange of data for the products and access to codified data for the products incorporated in the NATO codification system; - Codifying the equipment and ARM spare parts and input of the data into the LIS; Main implementing body/bodies: MoD / ARM GS
Notes: Codifying the equipment and spare parts in the procurement system at the MoD and ARM will provide interoperability and compatibility with NATO standards.
Activity 5: Establishment of efficient supply of stocks and spare parts in support of ARM operational requirements for a 90-day period and in support of deployed forces for a 30-day period with selected stocks and spare parts
Indicators: - Forming a database for spare parts (by mid-2014); - Improving the existing operational business procedures for logistics relating to public procurement procedures (normative-legal documents); - Setting the required levels of spare part stocks (by end of 2014). Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
Notes:
Activity 6: Divestiture of obsolete and surplus equipment and armed systems
Indicators: - Developing a plan for divestiture of non-reliable armed systems and its regular upgrading; - Establishing a comprehensive and transparent programme for divestiture of equipment Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: MoD/ARM GS
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Notes:
GOAL: Maintenance and management of the facilities and infrastructure of the MoD and the ARM
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Divesting the non-essential property of the MOD and the ARM
Indicators: - Completing the divestiture process of facilities of various purpose, whose need has ceased to exist and it is no longer in accordance with the realistic needs of the units according to the new formational establishment of the ARM and the MOD needs; Main implementing body/bodies: MoD and GS ARM
Notes:
CHAPTER III DEFENCE RESOURCES
3. DEFENCE RESOURCES
GOAL: Achievement of stable financing of the defence and effective realization of the defence costs.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Financing of the Ministry of Defence and the Army of the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Budgeting and execution of the defence budget Fiscal implications: 6,066,828,000 denars Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Defence
Timeframe: 2014
Notes: The proposed budget of the Ministry of Defence for 2014 amounts to 6,066,828,000 denars (about 99 million euros) or 1.17 % of the GDP.
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CHAPTER IV SECURITY ISSUES
4. SECURITY ISSUES
GOAL: Meeting the increased influx of NATO classified information and its timely distribution to the users. Here particular emphasis is put on the information with higher level of classification, the number of which has been continually increasing in comparison to the previous year.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Improving the security organization for handling of classified information
Indicators: - Professionalized registries for classified information at the missions of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO and the EU in Brussels; - Prepared amendments to the Decision of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia on Establishing the Number of Registries and Control Points at the Ministries, other Organs of the State Administration and other State Agencies. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Time frame: First half of 2014
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Notes: - Full professionalization of the registries will improve the work with foreign classified information and will contribute to maintaining continuity in the application of the NATO and EU security policies.
Activity 2: Upgrading the electronic communication link with the registry for classified information at the Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO in Brussels for exchange of information with higher level of classification
Indicators: - Putting the installed equipment into operation. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes: With the support of the NATO Liaison Office in Skopje, appropriate communication equipment for a direct electronic link up to level SECRET between the DSCI Central Registry in Skopje and the registries for classified information at the Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO in Brussels and at the Liaison Office of the Republic of Macedonia to SHAPE in Mons has been installed and tested.
GOAL: Ensuring application of the existing standards on administrative, physical, industrial, information and personnel security of classified information and their constant upgrading. The accomplishing of this goal contributes to maintaining a high level of protection of classified information and to successfully meeting the challenges in the everyday work with classified information.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Security accreditation of the national networks through which classified information is processed electronically, and their protection from cyber attacks.
Indicators: - Procured TEMPEST zoning equipment for the facilities where CIS for processing classified information is installed. - Accomplished training for the personnel operating the equipment. - Participation in inter-agency projects related to the establishing of the national standards for cyber defence and for national CIRT. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Time frame: 20132014
Notes: The dynamic of realizing this activity depends on the approved budget resources and the preparations of the organs and the institutions where the network security accreditation process has been initiated.
Activity 2: Developing and installing an applicative software at the Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO for selection of useful NATO classified information by the registries for classified information located in the Republic of Macedonia
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Fiscal implications: Resources from the budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Fiscal implications: Resources from the budgets of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information and the involved institutions
Indicators: - Developed applicative software for selection of useful NATO classified information; - Installed applicative software for selection of useful NATO classified information at the Mission of the Republic of Macedonia to NATO in Brussels. Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Time frame: 20132014
Notes: In the budget for 2014 additional funds have been requested for the development of the applicative software. Thus, the realization of this activity directly depends on the allocation of the requested funds in the budget.
Activity 3: Coordination of the activities related to the legal regulations concerning cryptographic protection in the Republic of Macedonia
Indicators: - Law Amending the Law on Classified Information in the area of information security concerning cryptographic protection of classified information in government procedure; - Decree on Cryptographic Protection in government procedure. Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes: The passing of these acts is the basis for determining the authorities in the national system for cryptographic protection. This will contribute to finalizing the legal framework for functioning of the National Distribution Authority (NDA) at the Ministry of the Interior for national needs, as well as of the National Accreditation Authority (NAA) and the National Communication Security Authority (NCSA) at the DSCI for national needs.
Activity 4: Finalizing the security accreditation process of communication and information systems at the Service of Military Security and Intelligence at the Ministry of Defence
Indicators: - Concluded procedure for security accreditation of communication and information systems at the Service of Security and Intelligence at the Ministry of Defence Fiscal implications: Resources from the budget of the Ministry of Defence Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes: The activities for preparation of the relevant documentation at the MoD continue assisted with consultations by the DSCI. The documentation should be ready by September 2013, after which the CIS security accreditation process could be finalized.
Activity 5: Improving the quality of the physical security of classified information
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Fiscal implications: Resources from the budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Fiscal implications: Resources from the budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Indicators: - Replaced and upgraded video surveillance equipment. - Procured equipment for visitors control. Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes:
Activity 6: Standardization of the administrative work by implementing ISO 9001:2008
Indicators: - Selected Consultation Office. - Finished second phase of implementation (screening, determining of the working processes, internal regulations). Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes:
GOAL: Enhancing international cooperation in the area of classified information, with emphasis on the activities at bilateral and regional levels. The establishing of a legal basis for entering into cooperation with other countries in sensitive areas related to security and defence through signing bilateral agreements on exchange and mutual protection of classified information is one of the prerequisites for successful European integration of the country. To that also contributes the developing of the cooperation with the counterpart services of the countries in the region.
ACTIVITIES
Activity 1: Concluding bilateral agreements at governmental level with other states concerning exchange and protection of classified information
Indicators: - Signed agreement with Italy; - Signed agreement with Serbia; - Signed agreement with Kingdom of Spain; - Signed agreement with USA; - Signed agreement with Hungary; - Signed agreement with Bosnia and Herzegovina; - Signed agreement with Montenegro; - Signed agreement with the Kingdom of Sweden; - Signed agreement with Latvia; - Signed Memorandum of Cooperation with Turkey; - Launched initiatives for concluding agreements with other states. Fiscal implications: Resources from the budgets of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information and of the institutions which have their representatives in the delegation of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia for negotiations, as well as of the institution that the authorized signatory comes from. Main implementing body/bodies: Directorate for Security of Classified Information
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Notes: - The texts of the bilateral agreements with Italy, Serbia and the Kingdom of Spain have been harmonized and now the internal procedures for adopting the texts of the agreements in the Republic of Macedonia and the respective countries are ongoing. - In June 2013, a return visit to Washington D.C. was made. Thus the penultimate phase of the procedure for concluding a bilateral security agreement between the Republic of Macedonia and the USA in the field of classified information was finished. The harmonization of the text of the agreement will follow soon.
Activity 2: Intensifying the cooperation with the national security authorities at regional level through active participation in the established forum for cooperation among the South East Europe National Security Authorities (SEENSA)
Indicators: - Prepared training and education programme for representatives of SEENSA member states as part of the work of the SEENSA Thematic Working Group on training and education in which the DSCI plays the role of lead National Security Authority. - Contribution made to the preparation of the materials necessary for the functioning of the other SEENSA Thematic Working Groups.
Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes:
Activity 3: Intensifying the cooperation with the National Security Authority of the Republic of Slovenia
Indicators: - Developed project documentation for the NSA Cloud project which enables a direct communication link between the Directorate for Security of Classified Information and the NSA of Slovenia (Memorandum of Cooperation, CIS specification, CIS operating protocols and manuals). - Finalized testing period. - Signed Memorandum of Cooperation. - Putting the NSA Cloud project into operation. Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes: The successful operation of the project will result in joining of the other NSAs of the SEENSA member states.
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Activity 4: Intensifying the cooperation with the national security authorities of the Multinational Working Group on Industrial Security (MISWG) member states
Indicators: - Acquired full-fledged MISWG membership - Participation and contribution to MISWG activities Fiscal implications: Main implementing body/bodies: Budget of the Directorate for Security of Classified Information Directorate for Security of Classified Information
Notes: Currently the Republic of Macedonia has an observer status at the MISWG.
ANNEX 1
Basic Public Prosecutors Office data for conviction in the field of organiZed crime for the period 1 April 201331 July 2013
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BaSIc PubLIc PROSEcuTORS OffIcE daTa fOR cONVIcTION IN THE fIELd Of ORGaNIzEd cRIME fOR THE pERIOd 1 ApRIL 201331 JuLy 2013
First instance judgments Penalties Second instance judgments
Conviction Acquittal
Rejections
Prison
Suspended sentences
Confirmed
Amended 2 3 26 39 8
Year
Criminal procedures Providing resources and property Request for investigation Indicted
Received criminal charges
Transferred to the jurisdiction of other prosecutions Statement for dismissal of prosecutions
Request for gathering required notifications
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11 9 180 81 1 31
2013
Taken against 6 Individuals for the crime of money laundering and abuse of official position and authority (a certain measure of assetfreezing of bank accounts)
204
Annulled 1
ANNEX 2
Basic Macroeconomic Indicators
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BASIC MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

2003 Real sector GDP at market prices Real growth rate In million MKD In million USD In million EUR GDP per capita GDP per capita (in MKD) GDP per capita (in EUR) Gross Capital Formation, (% of GDP) Industry, real growth rate Inflation (CPI) average GDP Deflator External sector (in million EUR) Export of goods (f.o.b.), Import of goods (f.o.b) Import of goods (c.i.f ) Lone import Lone excluded Import (c.i.f ) Trade balance (f.o.b.) Current account deficit Foreign Direct Investment Official reserves assets in % of GDP Trade balance (f.o.b.) Current account deficit Foreign Direct Investment nominal growth Export of goods (f.o.b.) Import of goods (f.o.b) Exchange rate MKD/EUR Exchange rate MKD/USD Government finances (Budget of RM) in million MKD Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit in million EUR Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit in % of GDP Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit Central Debt Social sector Population Net wage nominal growth real growth Gross wage nominal growth real growth Unemployment rate (ILO) Employment growth Productivity growth 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
2.8 258,369 4,758 4,217 127,478 2,081 19.1 5.1 1.2 0.3 1,203 1,956 2,038 394 1,644 -753 -170 100 715 -17.9 -4.0 2.4
4.6 272,462 5,514 4,442 134,050 2,185 22.0 2.8 -0.4 0.8 1,345 2,259 2,354 369 1,985 -914 -362 261 717 -20.6 -8.1 5.9 11.8 15.5 61.3377 49.4105
4.4 259,052 5,986 4,814 144,857 2,363 21.3 4.6 0.5 3.8 1,643 2,501 2,605 371 2,234 -858 -122 77 1,123 -17.8 -2.5 1.6 22.2 10.7 61.2958 49.2919
5.0 320,059 6,561 5,231 156,874 2,564 21.5 2.6 3.2 3.3 1,914 2,915 2,980 372 2,608 -1,001 -23 345 1,417 -19.1 -0.4 6.6 16.5 16.6 61.1885 48.7854
6.1 364,989 8,162 5,965 178,605 2,919 24.6 12.6 2.3 7.4 2,472 3,653 3,834 441 3,392 -1,181 -421 506 1,524 -19.8 -7.1 8.5 29.2 25.3 61.1838 44.7184
5.0 411,728 9,835 6,720 201,147 3,283 26.8 2.4 8.3 7.5 2,693 4,455 4,664 508 4,156 -1,763 -862 400 1,495 -26.2 -12.8 6,0 8.9 21.9 61.2654 41.8646
-0.9 410,734 9,319 6,703 200,292 3,269 26.2 -10.7 -0.8 0.7 1,933 3,492 3,637 391 3,246 -1,560 -457 145 1,598 -23.3 -6.8 2.2 -28.2 -21.6 61.2728 44.0766
61.2639 54.3031
84,167 86,760 -2,593 1,374 1,416 -42 32.6 33.6 -1.0 37.9 2,026,773 4.8 3.6 4.9 3.7 36.7 -2.9 5.9
88,176 88,169 7 1,438 1,437 0 32.4 32.4 0.0 35.6 2,032,544 4.0 4.4 4.1 4.5 37.2 -4.1 9.0
100,877 100,219 658 1,646 1,635 11 34.2 34.0 0.2 38.4 2,036,855 2.5 2.0 2.7 2.2 37.3 4.3 0.1
104,044 105,744 -1,700 1,700 1,728 -28 32.5 33.0 -0.5 32.0 2,040,228 7.3 4.1 8.0 4.8 36.0 4.6 0.4
119,608 117,455 2,153 1,955 1,920 35 32.8 32.2 0.6 24.0 2,043,559 7.9 5.6 4.8 2.5 34.9 3.5 2.6
136,411 140,222 -3,811 2,227 2,289 -62 33.1 34.1 -0.9 20.6 2,046,898 10.4 1.9 8.7 0.4 33.8 3.2 1.7
128,498 139,393 -10,895 2,097 2,275 -178 31.3 33.9 -2.7 23.8 2,050,671 24.0 25.0 14.1 15.0 32.2 3.4 -4.2
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2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016 Real sector GDP at market prices Real growth rate In million MKD In million USD In million EUR GDP per capita GDP per capita (in MKD) GDP per capita (in EUR) Gross Capital Formation, (% of GDP) Industry, real growth rate Inflation (CPI) average GDP Deflator External sector (in million EUR) Export of goods (f.o.b.), Import of goods (f.o.b) Import of goods (c.i.f ) Lone import Lone excluded Import (c.i.f ) Trade balance (f.o.b.) Current account deficit Foreign Direct Investment Official reserves assets in % of GDP Trade balance (f.o.b.) Current account deficit Foreign Direct Investment nominal growth Export of goods (f.o.b.) Import of goods (f.o.b) Exchange rate MKD/EUR Exchange rate MKD/USD Government finances (Budget of RM) in million MKD Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit in million EUR Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit in % of GDP Total revenue Total expenditure Surplus/Deficit Central Debt Social sector Population Net wage nominal growth real growth Gross wage nominal growth real growth Unemployment rate (ILO) Employment growth Productivity growth
2.9 434,112 9,344 7,057 211,246 3,434 24.9 3.4 1.6 2.7 2,530 3,978 4,137 468 3,669 -1,448 -144 160 1,715 -20.5 -2.0 2.3 30.9 13.9 61.5150 46.4574
2.8 459,789 10,396 7,473 223,357 3,630 26.2 -0.5 3.9 3.5 3,211 4,859 5,038 552 4,487 -1,648 -189 337 2,069 -22.1 -2.5 4.5 26.9 22.2 61.5289 44.2281
-0.4 458,621 9,575 7,454 222,421 3,615 28.8 -8.3 3.3 0.1 3,107 4,863 5,062 545 4,516 -1,757 -226 72 2,193 -23.6 -3.0 1.0 -3.2 0.1 61.5304 47.8981
2.0 487,980 10,188 7,931 236,328 3,841 2.3 3.5 4.3 3,318 5,173 5,380 592 4,789 -1,856 -310 270
3.2 521,221 10,882 8,471 252,074 4,097 3.8 3.3 3.5 3,615 5,605 5,829 641 5,188 -1,990 -335 400
3.8 557,258 11,634 9,057 269,126 4,374 4.2 2.7 3.0 3,958 6,114 6,358 699 5,659 -2,156 -380 430
4.5 599,734 12,521 9,747 289,234 4,701 5.0 2.5 3.0
-23.4 -3.9 3.4 6.8 6.4 61.5304 47.8981
-23.5 -4.0 4.7 9.0 8.3 61.5034 47.8981
-23.8 -4.2 4.7 9.5 9.1 61.5304 47.8981
61.5304 47.8981
132,146 142,690 -10,545 2,148 2,320 -171 30.4 32.9 -2.4 24.2 2,055,004 3.0 1.4 1.0 -0.6 32.0 1.3 1.6
137,180 148,663 -11,483 2,230 2,416 -187 29.8 32.3 -2.5 28.0 2,058,539 1.4 -2.4 1.2 -2.6 31.4 1.1 1.6
138,073 155,850 -17,787 2,244 2,533 -289 30.1 34.0 -3.9 34.1 2,061,952 0.3 -2.9 0.2 -3.0 31.0 0.8 -1.2
147,957 165,652 -17,695 2,405 2,692 -288 30.3 33.9 -3.6 32.8 2,064,838 1.5 -2.0 1.4 -2.1 29.6 3.6 -1.5 2,067,729 2.6 -0.7 2.4 -0.9 28.7 2.5 0.7 2,070,624 3.1 0.4 3.0 0.3 27.7 2.7 1.1 2,073,523 3.5 1.0 3.4 0.9 26.5 3.2 1.3
Note: From 2009 the definition for wages is changed. Data in shaded area indicate projections of Ministry of Finance.
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Annual National Programme of The Republic of Macedonia For NATO Membership 2013-2014

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Annual National Programme of The Republic of Macedonia For NATO Membership 2013-2014

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ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME

ANNUAL NATIONAL PROGRAMME

Skopje, November 2013

Design & Print:

Macedonian Information Centre

CHAPTER I: POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES . .......................................................................................................... 11

CHAPTER II: DEFENCE AND MILITARY ISSUES . ................................................................................................................ 31

CHAPTER III: DEFENCE RESOURCES............................................................................................................................................... 35

CHAPTER IV: SECURITY ISSUES.......................................................................................................................................................... 37

CHAPTER V: LEGAL ISSUES . ................................................................................................................................................................ 39

POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

DEFENCE AND SECURITY POLICY

1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

1.4.STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES

1.5. ADVANCEMENT OF GOOD-NEIGHBOURLY RELATIONS

1.7. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OHRID FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT

1.8. Advancement of public administration reforms

1.9. ADVANCEMENT OF JUSTICE SYSTEM REFORMS

1.10. ElectION LEGISLATION

1.11. police reform Priorities

1.13. MEDIA: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

1.14. Countering New Security Challenges

1.14.5.CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION

1.14.6. CONTROL OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS

1.14.7. FIGHT AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN BEINGS AND ILLEGAL MIGRATION

1.15. Improving the Crisis Management System

1.16. Budget and Economy

1.16.2. MACRO ECONOMY

1.16.4. TRADE LIBERALIZATION LIBERALIZATION OF MARKET SERVICES UNDER CEFTA 2006

2. DEFENCE POLICY AND PLANS

TRANSFORMATION OF THE ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

HUMAN RESOURCES (HR)

2.3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

2.4. CONTRIBUTION TO INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

2.5. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

2.6. LOGISTIC SUPPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

CHAPTER I POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

FOREIGN POLICY 1.1. NATO INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

Activity 1: Advancing the cooperation with NATO

Time frame: On continual basis.

Time frame: On continual basis.

Time frame: Second half of 2013

Time frame: On continual basis

Time frame: 2013-2014

Fiscal implications: Budget of institutions seconding civilian experts

Main implementing body/bodies: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence

Time frame: 2013 -2014

FOREIGN POLICY 1.2. EU INTEGRATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

GOAL: Starting accession negotiation with the European Union

Time frame: 2013 - 2014

Activity 2: Implementation of the 2013-2014 Pre-Accession Economic Programme

Time frame: 2013 - 2014

Time frame: 2013 -2014

GOAL: Smooth implementation of the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA)

Time frame: 2013 -2014

Time frame: December 2013.

GOAL: High level utilization of EU assistance - IPA

Activity 1: Strengthening the institutional capacity to manage EU assistance

Time frame: 2013-2104

GOAL: Participation in the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

Activity 1: Participation in the EU ALTHEA Mission

1.4.STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL INITIATIVES

1.14.5.CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION

1.16.4. TRADE LIBERALIZATION LIBERALIZATION OF MARKET SERVICES UNDER CEFTA 2006