Statement by Soros Foundations Network/Open Society Institute

by Ms. Mabel Wisse Smit

Chairman, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I join previous speakers in thanking the European Commission and World Bank for organizing this important meeting which comes at a most critical time.

Over the last decade, the Soros foundations network has been active on the ground in Macedonia. Since 1992, our network has provided more than $50 million to projects in the republic. This year, we will spend $5 million in grants. Most of these resources are allocated to areas linked to the implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement, including inter-ethnic programs, decentralisation, institution building, conflict resolution, elections and support for the South-East European University.

I would like to say a few words about the crucial role of local stakeholders in the peace and rehabilitation process.

We believe that the signing of the Ohrid Framework Agreement was just the first step towards peace and reconciliation in Macedonia. To achieve the full implementation of the agreement - including decentralisation and the holding of free and democratic elections - the cooperation of the Macedonian government and parliamentary opposition is necessary. But that alone is not enough. To achieve a lasting peace, another ally is needed. An ally who has taken a stand against war. That ally is civil society in Macedonia.

We believe that the international community needs to work more closely with civil society organisations and to devise a strategy for their support. Many program areas where international aid is most needed, including justice and home affairs, require not only an effective government strategy, but also the involvement of civil society. That is the way to build a durable peace and to foster stability in Macedonia and the region as a whole. Without this, our efforts are likely to falter.

The experience that most of us assembled here today have gained over the past ten years in South Eastern Europe demonstrates that local initiative and ownership are crucial to the long-term effectiveness of reform efforts. This approach ensures that assistance is delivered in the most efficient and responsible way possible. It also empowers and reinforces local capacity and institutions.

There is no substitute for the competence and commitment of local organisations. After all, the future of the local population is at stake. Their efforts are an investment in their own future. If we want to support lasting change in Macedonia, we - the donor community - must make certain that our resources support the efforts of the real stakeholders in the reform process.

We offer our local experience and expertise as a resource to the donor community, and look forward to cooperate with all of you.

Contact information

Open Society Institute - Macedonia / Bul. Jane Sandanski 111 / POB 378 / Skopje, Macedonia 1000 / Tel: 389-2-444488 / Fax: 389-2-444499 / E-mail: vmilcin@soros.org.mk / Mr. Vladimir Milcin

Open Society Institute - Brussels / 26, rue des Minimes / 1000 Brussels / Belgium / Tel. 32-2-5054646 / Fax 32-2-5024646 / E-mail: osi@osi-brussels.be / Ms. Mabel Wisse Smit