Rokas: The Constitutional Court plays an important role in the rule of law and the protection of European values

Skopje – The reform of the constitutional judiciary is one of the most important, as the Constitutional Court plays a very important role not only in ensuring the rule of law but also in protecting European values, and the reform should respond to how best to protect the independence and integrity of the Constitutional Court in an ever-changing environment.

This was emphasized by the Ambassador of the European Union in North Macedonia, Michalis Rokas, in the introductory speech at the round table “Do we need a Law on the Constitutional Court?” held at the Constitutional Court, aimed at opening a debate among representatives of institutions, the legal profession, and the civil sector on the need for a special law to regulate the functioning of the Constitutional Court.

Rokas emphasized that the Constitutional Court is not just another institution in a democratic society; it is the guardian of the Constitution, of legality, and of the fundamental rights and freedoms of every citizen. Its authority, impartiality, and resilience are extremely important for the rule of law in the country, and he stressed that it is a very important step for the country’s path towards EU membership. 

– Strengthening the Constitution is not just a formal requirement for EU membership; it is a strategic investment in fair access, in the rule of law, something that citizens need. It is a reform in which the Constitutional Court should also play a very important role. For these reasons, the EU supports the Court in its work and strengthens its capacities. We support North Macedonia in building strong, independent, and credible institutions, said Rokas.

He pointed out that it is not up to the EU to recommend whether or not a law on the Constitutional Court should be adopted, as the EU supports a process that is transparent, inclusive, and based on dialogue, which will ultimately strengthen trust in the Constitutional Court, its independence, and which will operate in accordance with European standards and best practices. 

Opening addresses at the debate were also made by the President of North Macedonia, Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, the President of the Constitutional Court, Darko Kostadinovski, and the ambassadors of Germany and the USA in Skopje, Petra Drexler and Angela Ageler.

The findings from the Analysis on the need for a Law on the Constitutional Court, prepared within a project funded by the EU, were also presented at the gathering. (April 28, 2025)