The Venice Commission recommendations, which are vital in the process of constitutional amendment, note that the proposed constitutional amendments are in line with the best procedures and practices in the European Union, as stated by Minister of European Integration Jadranka Joksimović.
However, she has stated that it does not mean everything is ideal, adding that their applicability to a country’s system, its institutional structure and political culture is important.
“I think this is why it is important to have a second opinion, which we have already received. But if the interested public has another opinion, they should indicate whether this (judiciary) reform would be applicable from their point of view”, said Joksimović at a press conference on the upcoming constitutional amendment.
She has recalled that the public has already participated in all rounds of consultations regarding the constitutional amendment, which lasted for 18 months.
She has explained that, in European countries, there is no one single model of rule-of-law reforms, but a series of various models which are in line with fundamental democratic principles.
“That is why the advisory role of the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission as its vital part and reference body is important to us”, stressed the Minister.
She has emphasised that Serbia does not strive to align its constitutional reforms with an existing model, but that it is seeking to develop the best one which is in line with the best practices.
“That is why it is important to have a public debate which, as announced by the Prime Minister, will be organised across Serbia at all levels and with all stakeholders”, concluded Joksimović.
Source: Tanjug
