The President of North Macedonia, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, has exercised her first veto since being elected in May last year, refusing to sign the Child Protection Law. This law, among other provisions, included a requirement for childcare licenses to be issued in both Macedonian and Albanian, reports RFE.
In a media statement, Siljanovska-Davkova emphasized that her veto was not intended to insult any language or pursue partisan interests. Instead, she stated that the decision aimed to encourage a review of certain provisions, specifically Articles 9 and 10 of the law.
Controversy Over Articles 9 and 10
The contested articles mandate that licenses be issued in Macedonian as well as in the language spoken by at least 20% of the population. Siljanovska-Davkova argued that these provisions should be re-examined in light of the fifth amendment of the Constitution and the existing Language Law, which is currently under review by the Constitutional Court.
Political Reactions
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski assured that the contested provisions would be corrected and that the law would be sent back to Parliament for further procedure. He stressed that Macedonian remains the official language throughout the state, but those wishing to issue licenses in Albanian would still have that right.
On the other hand, reactions from opposition parties and Albanian political groups have been divided. The Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) welcomed the president’s decision, calling it a step to avoid contradictory provisions. Meanwhile, the Democratic Union for Integration (BDI) condemned the decision, calling it an “open attack on the Albanian language.”
What Does the Child Protection Law Entail?
The law, passed in Parliament on December 24 with a double majority, regulates the system and organization of child protection through ensuring certain rights and forms of child protection.
If the president refuses to sign the decree for the law’s enactment, the Parliament must review it within 30 days. If the law is passed again with at least 61 votes, the president is obligated to sign it.
Currently, the Child Protection Law is expected to be revised and returned to Parliament for further procedure.
