Deputy Prime Minister Arben Fetai addressed the newly formed Council for Cooperation between the Government and Civil Society, marking the end of a multi-year boycott by civil organizations. Fetai stressed the civil sector’s crucial role as a guardian of democracy and a partner in developing better public policies.

Fetai acknowledged the challenges faced by the civil sector, including limited funding, lack of systemic support, and an inadequate legal framework. He affirmed the Government’s commitment to working with the non-governmental sector, citing the inclusion of a civil sector representative in the Interdepartmental Body for Coordination of the Fight against Corruption.

“Civil society is not a decoration of democracy, but its active supervisor – the voice that warns when phenomena such as corruption and injustice occur,” Fetai stated. He emphasized the Government’s obligation to act on the concerns raised by civil society, noting that “Democracy is a continuous process of self-correction. Your role is essential in that process, and our duty is to support that participation.”

Fetai expressed his understanding of the difficulties faced by civil organizations in securing funding and working with institutions. He also welcomed the new Council and its potential to foster cooperation between the government and civil society.