Public Administration Reform, Administrative Capacity and European Integration: Macedonian case

Anastasija Lazarova

doi:10.65921/t1cqpm30

Authors

Anastasija Lazarova Postgraduate student, Faculty of Tourism and Business Logistics, Goce Delcev University, Stip, North Macedonia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65921/t1cqpm30

Keywords:

public administration reform, European integration, North Macedonia, EU

Abstract

The European integration process of the Republic of North Macedonia is a long-term and complex process of institutional, legal and administrative transformation aimed at harmonizing with the standards and values of the European Union. Within this process, the reform of the public administration is imposed as one of the key prerequisites for the successful implementation of the obligations arising from the accession process.

The paper analyzes the role of the public administration reform as a significant factor in the process of Macedonian European integration, with special emphasis on administrative capacity, professionalization, depoliticization, transparency and digital transformation of institutions.

The research is based on an analysis of relevant scientific literature, reports of the European Commission and OECD/SIGMA, as well as a comparative analysis of the key reform processes related to the fulfillment of the criteria for membership in the European Union. The results indicate that progress in the European integration process is closely related to the quality and effectiveness of the implemented administrative reforms. Although significant changes in the normative framework and institutional development have been realized in the past period, challenges related to politicization, institutional coordination and consistent implementation of reforms still represent limiting factors.

The paper concludes that public administration reform is not just a formal requirement in the process of accession to the European Union, but an essential prerequisite for building efficient, professional and accountable institutions capable of implementing European policies and standards.

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