Minister Hoxha: Rule of law is a challenge for South East Europe

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vienna, 27 February 2019 – In the discussion panel in Vienna, organized by the MEP Lukas Mandl, for the South East Europe region, especially for non-EU countries, the Minister of European Integration, Dhurata Hoxha, discussed the topic “Rule of Law, Investments and Employment: Current Challenges for South East Europe”.

Minister Hoxha said that Kosovo has achieved tremendous progress since the declaration of Independence in terms of strengthening the rule of law, a process that affects all countries in the region.

“Strengthening the rule of law is the main task of Kosovo in particular and of the South East Europe countries in general. Only by strengthening the rule of law we can hope for more effective cooperation between the EU Member States and South East Europe countries in the regional context”, said Minister Hoxha, adding that the Government of Kosovo provides all possible support for the justice institutions and the reforms in this sector, in line with EU standards.

Minister Hoxha noted that challenges in Kosovo’s rule of law sector remain similar for all South East Europe countries, mainly on issues of effective law enforcement, delays in judicial proceedings and the fight against crime and corruption, while adding that the EU has provided support for the rule of law in Kosovo, although it remains a challenge.

“It is crucial for investors to be aware that internal security and rule of law are efficient. The recent reforms undertaken by the Kosovo Government are a promising step towards improving the rule of law”, stressed the Minister, adding that court proceedings delay civil and commercial cases and that such delay consequently have a negative impact on investment.

The Minister assessed that any assistance to Kosovo in its integration process is welcome, inviting the participants to discuss their experiences. After constructive discussions on this process, the Minister thanked the panel members and debaters for being cooperative.

Last modified: August 5, 2022