As Western Balkan nations navigate the European integration process, alignment with EU rule of law standards remains the benchmark for sustainable reform. Our latest podcast, examines how candidate countries translate accession reporting into meaningful political accountability.
The discussion features expert analysis from Edo Kanlić representing Transparency International Bosnia and Herzegovina, alongside Simonida Kacarska and Beba Zhagar from the European Policy Institute (EPI) in Skopje. The speakers evaluate the strategic value of the EC Rule of Law reports, framing them not merely as bureaucratic requirements, but as essential warning mechanisms designed to identify institutional vulnerabilities early on.
Throughout the conversation, the experts highlight how an empowered civil space and rigorous policy analysis enhance the credibility and impact of these monitoring reports. Looking specifically at judicial independence and reform challenges in North Macedonia and across the Western Balkans, the panel emphasizes that lasting institutional change cannot be imposed from the outside.
This podcast has received funding from Progres Institute and Kalevi Sorsa Foundation’s Think Tank Grant Program. The Grant Program is supported by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Progres Institute, the Kalevi Sorsa Foundation, or the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
