Siljanovska-Davkova: The independence and efficiency of the judiciary cannot be ensured without financial support

North Macedonia President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova said that the lack of financial resources makes it impossible for an independent and efficient judiciary to function.

Responding to a journalist’s question, she said she understands the dilemmas surrounding the legal changes being prepared in the judicial system, but stressed that she trusts the statement of State Public Prosecutor Nenad Saveski, who said he sees a solution regarding funding.

According to Siljanovska-Davkova, the issue is not related only to the salaries of judges and public prosecutors, but also to logistical support, which she described as very important for the functioning of the judiciary, including the Judicial Council and other institutions.

She stressed that everyone in legally valid institutions has the right to this support, because without financial resources neither independence nor efficiency can be guaranteed.

At the 16th Conference of Supreme Court Presidents from Central and Eastern Europe, being held today in Skopje, the president said that the work of the entire judicial system is measured through the work of the Supreme Court.

She warned that any attempt to politicize the Supreme Court poses a risk not only to the independence of the judiciary, but also to the democratic order.

Finally, Siljanovska-Davkova added that citizens have the right to receive justice in independent courts, from independent judges, underscoring that it is precisely the independence of judges that must be protected.