Your country needs progress in order to move forward and develop into a modern, democratic, and well-organized society, regardless of whether or not you wish to join the European Union one day, Austrian MEP Thomas Waitz told Saturday’s citizens’ forum entitled “North Macedonia and the Future of Europe: Citizens at the Heart of the EU Enlargement,” organized by the Democracy Support and Election Co-ordination Group of the European Parliament, in cooperation with the Parliament of Macedonia.
Waitz pointed out that the country’s progress should not be viewed solely through the prism of European Union membership, but primarily as a process aimed at ensuring a modern, democratic society and better living conditions for its citizens. Otherwise, he noted, citizens will seek a better life elsewhere.
He highlighted the environment, air quality, illegal landfills, recycling, wastewater treatment plants, mining and forestry as key topics that should be openly discussed. He also highlighted the rule of law as a cornerstone of the state’s functioning, as well as democratic processes and citizen participation.
“I believe that only a country that cares about the essentials – clean air, water, good living conditions, also makes economic progress. All of this has a direct economic impact. It is part of every system that defines daily life. It also includes the rule of law, whether the law applies equally to everyone or depends on how wealthy you are or where you come from. That is something we need to discuss,” said Waitz.