Skopje – The MARRI Asylum Network Meeting, held on 11 December 2024 in Skopje, brought together representatives from MARRI administrations, experts, and partners. Organized under the MARRI Presidency-in-Office by the Republic of Albania with support of GIZ, this event served as a platform for discussing asylum policy developments, addressing challenges, and shaping future priorities in the Western Balkans. Simona Krstevska, MARRI RC Acting Director & Representative of North Macedonia to MARRI RC, moderated the discussions.
The meeting was opened with remarks by Arven Ramadani, Representative of the Republic of Albania to MARRI RC, speaking on behalf of the Presidency-in-Office. He highlighted some of the Presidency’s key priorities: strengthening MARRI’s institutional efficiency through enhanced regional cooperation; and capacity building in the field of asylum. Emphasizing the importance of arriving at joint conclusions, Mr. Ramadani called for establishing shared understanding and a collective roadmap for the future, with clear priorities for action.
On behalf of GIZ, Sophie Meinke, Project Manager at GIZ Office in Skopje, addressed the participants reiterating GIZ’s strong partnership with MARRI. While noting that GIZ’s priority areas for the upcoming period are yet to be defined, Ms. Meinke affirmed their continued commitment to supporting collaboration in the region.
During the meeting, participants presented updates on the state of play in asylum systems across the region. A highlight of the event was a presentation on the New EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and its implications for the Western Balkans, delivered by Aurélien Juliard, International Relations Officer at DG Home. This was followed by a lively discussion, providing an opportunity for participants to explore practical approaches for aligning with EU standards while addressing regional challenges.
The meeting underscored the importance of continued dialogue, collaboration, and capacity building to strengthen the region’s collective response to asylum-related issues. Participants concluded the day with a shared commitment to defining actionable priorities and reinforcing the role of the MARRI Asylum Network in fostering regional cooperation.