Organized by the European Development Academy, a workshop and working meeting on financial investigations and the identification of property of illicit origin took place from May 16 to 18, 2024, in Kavadarci and Demir Kapija in the Republic of North Macedonia. The European Development Academy conducts workshops in collaboration with Slovenian experts in financial investigations who possess experience in identifying property of illicit origin in the Republic of Slovenia and have extensive experience collaborating with the Republic of North Macedonia in strengthening financial investigations from both theoretical and practical perspectives. The experts involved were Damjana Slapar Burkat, Marjana Grašič, and Jože Levašič.
The workshop was carried out with the involvement of Dr Tatjana Dragovič Andersen, a leading expert in adult education and training management. Participants included prosecutors from the Basic Skopje Prosecutor’s Office, representatives of the customs authority, and police officers from the Republic of North Macedonia.
During the workshop, discussions focused on the adequacy of the legal framework for extended confiscation in the Republic of North Macedonia, particularly in light of amendments to Article 98(a) of the Criminal Code, as well as potential legislative changes that could ensure more effective confiscation of property of illicit origin in extended confiscation proceedings.
Additionally, the workshop addressed ongoing financial investigation cases in the country being handled by the participants. The focus was placed on identifying obstacles, sharing best practices, and seeking solutions. The workshop facilitated the meeting of various institutions with judicial police status and responsibilities for conducting financial investigations, enabling the exchange of best practices, experiences, and broader perspectives, supported by Slovenian experts.
In addition to the workshop, a meeting was organized to discuss the potential involvement of a Slovenian oncology expert to assist in the investigation of a criminal offense. This collaboration would contribute to understanding the financial aspects of the crime and facilitate the identification of any assets generated as a result of criminal activities.
The workshop and meeting in the Republic of North Macedonia served as a source of motivation for all participants and Slovenian experts, fostering continued work in the field of financial investigations. Above all, it provided an opportunity for deepening knowledge, seeking solutions, and thinking outside the box.
