The European Commission published its third annual Rule of Law Report. This year, emphasis was placed on the importance of respecting democratic values, human rights and the rule of law, in the context of the developments during the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Same as the previous years, four critical areas for the rule of law are monitored: justice systems, the anti-corruption framework, media pluralism and freedom, and other institutional issues linked to checks and balances, while this year’s report for the first time contains specific recommendations addressed to each Member State, intended to encourage countries to continue with planned reforms and identify the problems that must be addressed. Reforms in the justice systems related to strengthening judicial independence, efficiency and quality of justice, further digitalising justice systems and facilitating access to justice, have been implemented by the many Member States, however, there are still some concerns persisti...
Regarding the significance of Chapter 23 - Judiciary and Fundamental Rights and the EU accession process, MK – EU Resource Centre (MERC) was enabled. Once established, MERC 23 will present a unique monitoring and policy advocacy platform on the EU integration process in this policy area, used by the project network, but also by other users. In addition, it will serve as policy bridging initiative encompassing policy products of Network’s members after the finalization of the project, thus ensuring sustainability and presence.