Qualitative research: Current political developments in the Republic of Macedonia. - September, September,

Transcription

1 Qualitative research: Current political developments in the Republic of Macedonia - September, 6 - September, 6

2 Contents А Methodology B Is Macedonia moving in the right or wrong direction? Topic Expectations from the new government Topic - PERSONIFICATION OF PARTIES Topic - Multiethnic policies Topic 4 - Special Prosecution Office (SPO) 5 Topic 5 - State Election Commission (SEC) 8 6 Recommendations to parties and the new post electoral government 7 SUMMARY 5 8 Attachment - Mini Survey 54 48

3 А Methodology

4 Methodology UNIVERSUM (TARGET GROUP): Politically undecided citizens METHOD: FOCUS GROUPS First phase recruitment Second phase focus group: Moderator, discussion guide and participants of the discussion ТV monitoring watching the focus group SIZE OF SAMPLE N= 6 focus groups (Each group consists of 8 participants) FIELD WORK Bitola Macedonians Tetovo Albanian Strumica Macedonians Shtip 9 6 Macedonians Kumanovo 9 6 Mac.- Alb Skopje 9 6 Mac.- Alb. DATA ALYSIS The focus groups were video and audio recorded, transcripts and appropriate qualitative analysis were made. Data (answers) from the mini survey were entered in a unique SPPS database and an appropriate statistical analysis was conducted. RESEARCH TEAM moderators interpreter technical support pollster coordinator recruitment pollsters 5 BRIMA representatives in the analytical team 4

5 Methodology DISCUSSION GUIDE: The discussion guide has been prepared jointly by NDI and BRIMA TECHNICAL SUPPORT: In-house studio (in Skopje) mobile equipment for video/ audio recording, simultaneous interpretation, signal mixings (in other towns) DELIVERABLES: Transcripts from focus groups WORD file Analytical reports WORD file (Macedonian and English) Oral presentation PPT format file (Macedonian and English) CDs with recorded focus groups PRESENTATIONS OF FINDINGS: Presentations are envisaged (in agreement with NDI) 5

6 Methodology composition of focus groups TETOVO (Alb) man 45 HSDG employed. (Alb) man 46 DipHE employed. (Alb) man 55 HSDG unemployed 4. (Alb) man 65 DipHE pensioner 5. (Alb) woman 56 HSDG unemployed 6. (Alb) woman HSDG student 7. (Alb) woman 4 DipHE employed 8. (Alb) woman 5 HSDG unemployed SKOPJE. (Mac) woman 4 DipHE unemployed. (Alb) woman 6 HSDG pensioner. (Mac) woman 47 HSDG employed 4. (Mac) man 6 DipHE employed 5. (Alb) man 48 DipHE employed 6. (Alb) man HSDG student 7. (Alb) woman 48 HSDG unemployed 8. (Mac) man 54 DipHE unemployed Tetovo -4 men -4 women Skopje - 4 men - 4 women Bitola -4 men -4 women KUMANOVO. (Mac) man 4, HSDG employed. (Mac) man 56, DipHE employed. (Mac) woman, DipHE employed 4. (Mac) woman8, DipHE unemployed 5. (Alb) man 46, DipHE employed 6. (Alb) woman, HSDG student 7. (Alb) woman4, HSDG unemployed 8. (Alb) man 64, DipHE pensioner Kumanovo -4 men -4 women Shtip - men -5 women BITOLA (Mac) man 8 DipHE employed. (Roma) man 5 HSDG unemployed. (Mac) woman 69 Pr. Ed.. pensioner 4. (Mac) woman 54 HSDG unemployed 5. (Mac) woman 48 DipHE unemployed 6. (Mac) woman 4 HSDG employed 7. (Mac) man HSDG student 8. (Mac) man 5 DipHE unemployed Strumica - 4 men - 4 women SHTIP. (Mac) woman 7 HSDG unemployed. (Mac) woman 6 DipHE pensioner. (Mac) woman HSDG student 4. (Mac) woman4 DipHE unemployed 5. (Roma) man 54 HSDG employed 6. (Mac) man 4 HSDG employed 7. (Mac) man 7 DipHE postgraduate 8. (Mac) woman 55 Pr.Ed. unemployed STRUMICA.(Mac) woman 64 HSDG pensioner. (Mac) woman 5 DipHE unemployed. (Mac) woman HSDG student 4. (Mac) woman 5 DipHE unemployed 5. (Mac) man 59 HSDG employed 6. (Mac) man 47 HSDG employed 7. (Mac) man 4 DipHE пpostgraduate 8. (Mac) man 9 HSDG employed 6

7 CONTEXT In the period before and during the focus groups, the following factors that influenced the perception of the social-economic and political climate can be singled out: An agreement was reached among the parties for early elections to be held on December, 6 Election of an interim government, contested voters were removed from the Voters List Discussions about the difference in the number of voters in the electoral districts SPО s second report was submitted to the Assembly and discussed at the responsible Committee on the political system and inter-ethnic relations The Special Prosecutor s Office submitted three requests to the Assembly with the purpose of making the SPO s work easier The first two indictments were initiated by the SPO: the first indictment relates to illegal destruction of the wiretapping equipment, while the second relates to the ordered violence upon the mayor of the Municipality of Center Debates in the public about the problems with selling farmers produce Debates about the adoption of the 7 budget 7

8 B Is Macedonia moving in the right or wrong direction? 8

9 Is Macedonia moving in the right or wrong direction? Right Neither Wrong = Not Active FG direction of the country Mini survey situation in the country Macedonia 7 Factors influencing perceptions: unemployment Macedonia Triangle of dissatisfaction emigration low standard of living MAIN FINDINGS Dominant perception wrong direction which is consistent with the grade of the mini survey it is a hard living * (results in attachment ) The generators of dissatisfaction are creating a feeling of being without perspective and without hope The accumulated social-economic dissatisfaction in a long period is connected to the general dissatisfaction by the political elite There are no significant differences in the perception of the wrong direction on ethnic basis (М = 7% ; А = 75%) 9

10 Is Macedonia moving in the right or wrong direction? BITOLA All participants think that Macedonia is moving in the wrong direction. Main reasons: unemployment and emigration -...on TV they say it is good, but ask people, everyone is unemployed the current situation is very bad every second home is politicized, it is sad the situation is not great, we see it on the media, a lot of people have emigrated... 8 TETOVO All participants think that Macedonia is moving in the wrong direction. Main reasons: bad economic and political situation -...there is no perspective for children nor for older people here we cannot expect anything else but chaos in politics, there is no development in the economy... 8 STRUMICA Opinions divided between wrong direction and neither right nor wrong. -...at the moment I think it is stagnant, it has moved one step forward and one step backward despite the fact that I have not felt progress from the state, I have not seen any progress it moves backwards, the standard is going down all the time. The youth has been emigrating slowly, slowly... SHTIP Almost all participants think that Macedonia is moving in the wrong direction. Main reasons: standard of living, low salaries and emigration of youth. -...Macedonia lacks one main road towards the future, not alleys young people..are gone when young people are leaving, they want to take Bulgarian passports, and go out of Macedonia, it is not good here the standards are high and the salaries are low... 7(6M, R) (M) (A) 5(M,A) KUMANOVO Divided opinions of participants, but the negative attitude prevails. Main reasons: unemployment and high level of partisanship -...we are still standing still, and the politics is to blame the ones and the others are only interested in their personal, party interests it is not good, everything is worsening, I am unemployed, my husband does not work, catastrophe... SKOPJE 4(A, M) 4(A, M) Participants opinions divided between right direction and wrong direction. -...we are moving better in relation to the other countries we are going into an abyss, we are acting as we are working as a young student, I can hardly see my future here in Macedonia yes, yes, in a positive direction, but more time is needed...

11 TOPIC - Expectations from the new government

12 Expectations from the new government Question: What are your expectations from the new government? BITOLA 8 participating Lethargy prevails in this FG. The pessimism resulting from accumulated dissatisfaction from both political forces is emphasized, only two participants have positive expectations -.., not to have revengeful actions, stealing and investments in dead capital. -...If the government changes, it will get worse, it the current stays on, it will be bad...(r) - to create conditions for employment of people... - wrong people in the wrong places TETOVO 8 participating The hope is to solve existential, but also institutional problems in the state. Only one participant expressed resignation - one will leave, the other will come, I think it will be the same - an expert government...people who know what they are doing - we need to be part of the agenda of the European Union - I expect Macedonia, to be an open state, state of the citizens STRUMICA 8 participating General dissatisfaction from the political events from the past - They will come, take everything and will leave - Same, same again -...to have possibilities for employments and not to have emigration Same people, there is no young cadre to work... SHTIP 7 participating (6M и R) Everyday problems are projected as expectations from the new government -...whether it is the old government or a new government, it will be the same we will see, because we do not know what will happen I honestly think that the situation can be improved with VMRO in power what can I say, I have not expected anything from the old one, and I don t expect anything from the new.. KUMANOVO 8 participating The expectations are projected in the long term, and concretely, participants want increased moral values and ending emigration -...to learn people how to think differently.. (М) -... The future government should learn how not to lie... (А) -...people who are a lot more capable should come to power... (А) -... First and foremost, the emigration should be stopped...(м) SKOPJE 8 participating Dissatisfaction from the current situation and pessimism, improving the standard of living and care for the citizens -...here SDSM, there VMRO, whatever we elect, we will get the same result... (M) -...the salaries are very low... (M) -... This government should be for the people above all, not the state above all... (A) -...we are expecting a lot, however that will definitely not happen... (A) Main finding: expectations are focused on existential problems because the governments so far have not succeeded in solving them

13 Expectations from the new government Question: According to you, which should be the priority problems to solve for the new Government? Main priorities: improving the standard, opening new jobs and economic development Bitola Tetovo Strumica Shtip Kumanovo Skopje improving the standard of living (R) (М) economic development Education Judiciary(R) (М) new employments improving the standard of living economic development EU integration Inclusive state Education Judiciary new employments improving the standard of living economic development Education new employments Economic development (R) education new employments (М) (А) improving the standard of living(м) economic development (М) (А) emigration(м) (А) new employments (М) (А) improving the standard of living(м) health (М) (А) emigration(м) (А)

14 Expectations from the new government Question: Can you explain why these problems are more important than others? BITOLA participating According to the participants, education, economy and social issues are coherent for the development of a society -... Education as a foundation of a society - if the economy is right, all other problems will be solved more easily - when the factories were functioning, only the disabled people were on social welfare, now we all are TETOVO 6 participating The resolutions of the economic question is a priority as an instigator of all other immanent problems -...The economy is needed because we cannot do without financial means if we don t have a strong economy, many things will not function The economy is the base of a country and it dictates politics... STRUMICA participating Directly addressed answers towards the current situation in the country with a critical dynamics -... We have people who do not know how to sum up two and two The man is a building structure of the society... SHTIP participating The improvement of the economic situation is fundamental for the progress of the society -...these problems are the most important because the finances are basis for all to distribute finances, good people and good ideas on the right places.. KUMANOVO 7 participating (4М and Alb) Criticism directed towards the manner of governance and emphasizing the real everyday problems -...after elections, the citizens are nothing... (A) -... Well these are elementary there is no life without them... (A) -...if we do not prevent emigration, only pensioners will remain...(а) -... To have faith in people and the people to have faith in the government...(а) SKOPJE 7 participating (4М and Alb) Emphasizing real problems in health, economy, education through which strong emotions of dissatisfaction are manifested -...There is no money, we cannot live on a salary of ten thousand or twelve thousand... (М) -... Other invest in hospitals, we invest in monuments... (A) -... There is equipment in Shtip, but there is no doctor to work with them, everyone has gone abroad... (M) -... Teachers do not care about the education, they want classes to finish faster and they get something on the side... (A) 4

15 Expectations from the new government Question: Which concrete steps should the government take in order to solve problems? BITOLA 7 participating (6М and R) Transparency of the work of the Government and accountability as a warranty that the Government will not be manipulating and abusing power for personal and party goals. This is a result of the events in reality -...not to focus only on their goals when someone comes to power, not to name things, shouldn t think how to get rich To catch all thieves and they need to explain where they got the capital There is no law against stealing in Macedonia, nobody goes to prison... SHTIP 4 participating (М and R) Changes in the management of human resources in areas, eliminating of partisanship and improving standard of living -... the right people, and not party soldiers, then the problems will be solved Excellent person to get things moving, a person that knows her/his area...(r) -... Every year, pensioners and administration get 5% or % raise and the average worker Half of the people who work do not know how to write... TETOVO 7 participating Implementation of European-Atlantic values, more efficient management of finances and fight against corruption -... Foreign investment to work zero tolerance for corruption Integration in the European Union, there is no hope without it and TO membership We should go back to decentralization... KUMANOVO 8 participating The desire to change the political elites, more openness of the politicians towards the citizens To call a rally of people and randomly chose and solve their problems... (M) -... New, maybe will govern in a different way the people who created it, won t be able to solve it... (A) -... They should hear citizens and should work in that directions... (A) -... In these 6 years, we have only heard of names who have lead us... (А) STRUMICA 4 participating Correcting irregularities and reforms in different spheres. Strengthening tax policies To audit everything. I want to see who earned what and where from, and who got a job and in what way With tax, there is a state. There is no strong state without tax Reforms in health, education, to build quality cadre... SKOPJE 7 participating (4М and Аlb) The worker to be at the front of everything, efficiency in economy, to nourish quality cadre -... At least to have a regular minimum wage... (М) -... The worker is not protected... (М) -... Qualified people to be accepted without their party background... (A) -... Both politicians and us, should create a better climate, to attract more foreign investments... (А) Main finding: main steps- fight against corruption, crime, engaging competent cadre and better communication with citizens 5

16 Expectations from the new government Question: How would the situation look like after a successful resolution of the problems (what would be different from the current situation)? BITOLA 7 participating (6М and R) Resolved disproportion between expenditures and salaries -...we would have our own production... - When it is resolved, the dignity of people will be returned.. - I think it is impossible, I cannot imagine it, I don t know how it will look like TETOVO 8 participating Extremely pessimistic attitudes and without hope to possibly solve the problems in the state - It is hard to imagine -...everything has sunk in corruption -...I do not believe that our generation will manage to see the resolution of these problems -...there wouldn t be chaos in the state -...people would deal with real constructive problems, instead of nationalism and patriotism STRUMICA 8 participating Pessimistic discussion with a critical tone with an emphasis on the need to solve corruption - There will be more faces with smiles it is utopia... - To change mentality, you will give a Euros salary to a health worker, he thinks of ways to get a bribe... SHTIP participating Equal social distribution of capital -...they should increase salaries and everything will be solved In ten years Shtip will only have ten people. - Ten people in the town. And we will still be taking 5, in ten years KUMANOVO 8 participating Disappointment from the current condition of the state in which they don t need hope for improvement and resolution of problems -...no matter what Government, they should stop stealing from the people, and it will be better for the people in that case, people will be building the state... - How it will look like, it sounds like science fiction it will be miracle SKOPJE 8 participating Focus on solving everyday existential problems, employments, social issues, decreasing the fines... - There will be more calmness. - Stricter norms... - Social situation should be improved... - Protection of workers... Main finding: less positive visions solved problems would encourage optimism and hope, more negative visions solved problems, it is utopia, I cannot imagine how it would look like, our generation will not live to see it 6

17 Expectations from the new government Question: According to you, which party can successfully solve the problems, party from the political right, left, or center? BITOLA 4 participating (М and R) Political orientation of the party is irrelevant - New party with new people. It doesn't matter which party -...regardless of the party s orientation -...wiretapping woke people up... - We don t have such a savior TETOVO 7 participating The political orientation is only declarative. However, the attitudes are leaning towards the left as a result of the accumulated dissatisfaction of the right. - Gruevski there is a prime minister, no ministers people believe VMRO is right, SDSM is left but that s only declarative it doesn t matter, left, right they are all the same, they all work for the our causes... STRUMICA 8 participating Participants were divided in those who support the right and those who expressed a need for a new option to appear regardless its political orientation (need for true political pluralism) -...we need fresh blood... - Now I think that a center which can realistically and objectively - I think that that Government, which is current at the moment, should continue. They saw where they were wrong. And hopefully they will correct themselves. If someone else comes, again the same, these have the experience. They need to start improving already. SHTIP 4 participating (М and R) Insufficient information and inability to properly differentiate the political spectrum. Political orientation of the party is irrelevant. - Right people on right positions, regardless whether the party is left or right -...I don t understand left, right - They solve their own problems, and who solves our problem KUMANOVO 8 participating They think there is a confusion of the political spectrum in Macedonia. -...the short democratic experience in Macedonia contributed for the society not to be oriented towards left or right yet.....they do not differ ideologically it is only declarative SKOPJE 7 participating (4М and Alb) Disappointment in the existing parties which has influenced the indifference toward ideological differences between political subjects. -...I am neutral I think neither the one, nor the others -... Neither the one, nor the other..in Macedonia people strive to win on national basis neither SDSM nor VMRO hold the decisions, Merkel is the solution, the solution is a citizens party -...all parties are the same whoever come, it will be the same, first we need to deal with debts, expenditures... 7

18 Expectations from the new government Question: According to you, which party can successfully solve the problems, party from the political right, left, or center? Results from the Mini Survey % Right Center Left No answer The analysis of the perception of the political spectrum in the group discussion is insufficiently differentiated in the majority of participants. According to their experience, the ideological orientation of parties is not important and has been reduced to the opinion that all the parties are the same when they are in power. When the participants were faced with the situation of the mini survey to give a concrete response, the results are more clear. The estimate of the majority 56% is that parties from the political center can successfully resolve problems in the country. The undecided percentage is a bit more preferred than the left % and the right 5% and this shows their dissatisfaction by them, which was present during the whole group discussion. This finding takes us to a conclusion that the undecided are expecting a changed attitude by these parties in terms of their governance practices. 8

19 Electoral profile of undecided Electoral performances of undecided viewed through the prism of the mini survey results (note: due to the small number of respondents in the group discussions, 48 total, these results above all, have a purpose to illustrate certain important characteristics without pretensions to be a replacements for findings based on a sufficiently big representative sample) The electoral profile of the undecided participants in group discussions shows the following: The vast majority of them (89%) is not interested in politics Usually every fifth participant always votes for the same party and almost three fourths (7%) vote differently Majority of them feel it is important for them for which party they will cast their vote (58%) Majority of them will probably vote on the parliamentary elections (54%), and 5% will think about whether they will vote 9

20 Topic - PERSONIFICATION OF PARTIES

21 Personification of parties VMRO-DPMNE Instructions: imagine the party is a house and describe it... Main findings: Negative associations are dominant in all towns. It is experienced in categories of power, a body organized in strict hierarchy, megalomaniac, with luxurious life style, nourishes false value, favors personal interests. Govern in a nondemocratic spirit, strongly organized with a developed capacity to endure stresses in an atmosphere of turbulences in society. General climate in the party there is an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. TETOVO 5 (А) -...they are focused only on the interests of their people Big house, big garden, the owner is a dictator -..selfish people think about themselves... STRUMICA 8 (М) -... Baroque Traditional house... Associations BITOLA 4 (М) -... Barok in styrofoam We are afraid because we are in such a situation Angels I only see a façade, styrofoam the same as their new building Baroque with a pool... SHTIP 5 (М) -... They have everything, cars, security, pool, rich people, living outside the city Only they live in that house, nobody else Will they survive an earthquake strong build they will survive -... Not like mine... KUMANOVO 8 (4М,4А) -... Cold, password needed to get in, magicians, they are afraid of their own shadow (А) -... House of cards it can fall down in a minute.there is bridge to run away (М) -... With security, with servants..(м) SKOPJE (4М, 4А) -...they are stressed, jumpy.they are looking for someone to burn, to imprison someone I would not like to be in that house...(а) -... There are a lot of fears, rich people, arrogant... (М) -... Huge building. The wizard is upstairs, the others are like brainless... (М) Interpretations BITOLA - Megalomania - Luxury - Hypocrisy - False values TETOVO Powerful party with an exclusivity, favoring personal interests, nondemocratic leadership STRUMICA They are calling upon traditional values, but it builds megalomaniac objects in baroque. SHTIP Party which citizens are not identifying with, the average citizen believes that the leadership is distant from them - Luxurious life style - Ability to survive turbulences KUMANOVO Hierarchical party with privileged leadership, atmosphere of fear and uncertainty is present in the party Associations are the same with both Albanians and Macedonians SKOPJE Albanians: General insecurity, destructive methods of governance and selfish aspirations. Macedonians: manipulative, hierarchical governance, it causes repulsion and resignation

22 Personification of parties SDSM Associations BITOLA (М) - Do they have a house? -Building - There is no gas in the building - Small apartments Interpretations BITOLA - Powerless - Weak - Poor Instructions: imagine the party is a house and describe it... Main findings: In the majority of townс (Te, St, Ku, Sk), the opinions are divided, polarized on negative and positive associations, the negative ones prevail. It is experienced as a category of weakness, not power, poor, estranged from the electorate. In a process of renewal of capacities and prestige. Party which expresses aspiration for winning power for their own goals and interests, defined as a selfish purpose for power. General climate in the party indications for pre-electoral mobilization in an atmosphere of conflicts and concern. TETOVO 5 (А) -...they are trying to satisfy people who are coming in the house - Loud sounds, turbulences, it can be a strong house - It looks good but the people who live it in they live for themselves. STRUMICA 6 (М) -...they do not want neighbors because they are arrogant -... They have friends out of interest... - More elitistic They live on the outskirts, where they are in peace... SHTIP 6 (М) (R) -... They are waiting for the time to come to build another floor -... Maybe it has good foundations that can be renewed It is only important to sit on the chair(r) KUMANOVO 4 (А) (М) -...weekend house.not even one neighbor (А) -... nothing has been invested no hope... (А) -...in the phase: we will do... (М) SKOPJE 4 (А) (М) -... You get up, so we can sit...(м) -... Argument in the house Panic (М) -... To change some things I like it... (А) -... Big, beautiful, luxurious...(а) -... To seduce the people...(а) TETOVO Divided opinions: - It puts personal interests above the ones of citizens - There is a process of changes in the direction of renewal of capacities STRUMICA - Estranged from the electorate, arrogant, inaccessible to citizens - Elitist style distances citizens SHTIP -Evaluation of the majority of participant- weakened party with a motive to win power, for their own goals and interests (R) (М) It has capacity to renew the prestige KUMANOVO Albanians: - No desire nor power to change Macedonians: - Weakened, with a desire to renew, but the electorate is skeptical SKOPJE Albanians(divided opinions): - Potential for a positive change - Selfish desire for power Macedonians: - Selfish desire for power

23 Personification of parties DUI Instructions: imagine the party is a house and describe it... Main findings: In the majority of towns with Macedonian participants, the perception is determined by negative national stereotypes. Obvious disappointments and accumulated dissatisfaction present among Albanian participants. It is experienced in categories of internal disputes and distrust in the party which is emphasized among the Albanian participants. Party which is closed and isolated from citizens. There is a process where disappointed members leave the party. General climate in the party atmosphere of concern and uncertainty. Associations BITOLA 4(М) (R) -... They were with VMRO? With dogs, with bodyguards They all have the same house, inside they have fireplaces, but on a picture, false... (R) -... I don t know what to answer anymore... TETOVO 8(А) -... Bad house, bad garden everything inside is bad and ugly One is afraid, there are not a lot of people inside but they are dangerous No control over its family, family members would like to run STRUMICA 5(М) -... They all hang out together, that s why they are winning They live alone There is a bit of luxury, but like in the first two A lot of floors. They need more room... SHTIP 5(М) (R) -... Children. Relatives They are closed up, the yard is big and it receives a lot of people, it has a strong foundation, it will survive a stronger earthquake But they don t function with anyone from the neighborhood... KUMANOVO 4(М) (А) -... Modern house, isolated in an elite neighborhood it is an interest of that group... (М) -... Good house, and no good people, the people are not good.. (А) -... narcissistic... (А) -...fascinating, as it is of quality and it looks like it s years old... (А) SKOPJE 4(М) 4(А) - Panic atmosphere like in SDSM and VMRO (А) -... Mafia house... (А) -... Every year, a family member moves out because of a dispute..(а) Barbed wire, so not everyone can be a member there... (М) -... A house where there is no love, no togetherness an empty house... (А) Interpretations BITOLA The participants are not informed about DUI and their knowledge is elemental and formed by stereotype about the Albanian nationality TETOVO Accumulated exposed dissatisfaction manifested through putting labels of negative characteristics of officials. Atmosphere of interparty conflict STRUMICA General opinions are a result of opinions acquired from the stereotypes of the Albanian nationality. SHTIP The negative stereotypes about the Albanian nationality are basis for their perception of DUI. KUMANOVO Macedonians: negative perception of the party Albanians: Visibly disappointed, and the work of the party and its staff is looked upon with distrust and SKOPJE Macedonians: neutral perception. Present at the scene, but with no important role. Albanians: Negative perceptions Internal disputes; corruption; manipulations, atmosphere of uncertainty

24 Personification of parties DPA Instructions: imagine the party is a house and describe it... Main findings: Гксса хгфф Дгффх In the majority of towns, Macedonian participants are not informed and not interested in the party, negative perception prevails among the Albanian participants. It is experienced in categories of weakness and not power, without visions, it is behaving opportunistically in political events. General climate in the party atmosphere of division, it nourishes aspirations which are above its capacities. Associations BITOLA (М) - All houses are the same TETOVO 6 (А) - I do not see them at all - A house which has several empty floors the owner appears as everything is ok they have it for themselves... STRUMICA 4 (М) - The house is the same for DUI and DPA...The house is not big but it will have a big yard... - Only a big yard, no house a tent probably SHTIP 7 (М) -... A little house..i don t know a lot to comment much -... The desires are big, and the house is medium KUMANOVO 4 (М) 4 (А) -... DPA smaller house.disputes are obvious... (М) -...But I don t have anything special to say...(м) -...A piece falls every day...(а) -...I did not imagine it as a house...(а) SKOPJE 4 (М) 4 (А) -... No vision(м) -...more modest then DUI...(М) (А) -...They have houses everywhere, wherever they are given...(а) Interpretations BITOLA -Indifference toward Albanian parties - Insufficient information TETOVO - Inaccessible for the electorate - Selfish, they don t think about the electorate - They hide their weakness and lack of power STRUMICA - Equalizing the goals of DUI and DPA - Emphasis on the inferiority of the party in comparison to others SHTIP -Insufficient information about the party and its work (5 of 7) - Weak party with big aspirations KUMANOVO -Emphasized negative stand in both Albanians and Macedonians - Weak party, internal party divisions -Non-functional, disintegrated SKOPJE No opposite opinions between Albanians and Macedonians - No visions, no agenda, opportunistic party - More modest than DUI 4

25 Personification of parties Ideal party Associations Interpretations... Medium sized yard, with tenant s council (R) (Bt)... Who will be implementing a platform...for development of the state...will include all human resources...needed for implementation...(а) (Те) To open the door for everyone that knocks, to enter freely and to welcome everyone...(м) (St)... Equal for all citizens (М) (St)... Will keep their promises(м) (Кu) Ideal party, first they should be people who will be working for all, and not just for some (А) (Кu)...where the Government is afraid of the people, and not the people afraid of the Government (А) (Sk) The ideal party is expected to have a clear platform which it will implement with all its capacities It is determined to fulfill what it promised It is inclusive and equal to all levels of society Respects all laws With capable and professional staff Modest, not a lot of luxury Open and accessible to citizens To be able to hear the needs of the citizens

26 Topic - Multiethnic policies 6

27 Multiethnic policies Question:...Would you vote for a multiethnic coalition (a multiethnic coalition would consist of Macedonian, Albanian, Serbian, Roma, Turkish political parties)? SKOPJE (М) (А) 4 participants got involved in the discussion, and all 4 were in agreement -... It can be like it used to be, we had everything. We were all together... (М) -... We are stronger together, let s say.. (А) KUMANOVO 4 (М) 4 (А) The group unanimously and declaratively, without a desire to discuss further, gives support to multiethnic coalitions and candidates lists with candidates of more nationalities. LEGEND I would vote Abstained I would not = Not active TETOVO 5 (А) All participants responded to this question negatively which points out to a interethnic distrust. One of them expressed distrust towards Macedonians as a people generalizing from his own direct experience with Macedonians I work with Macedonians, and absolutely you cannot deal with them We don t have conditions for political multiethnic coalitions... Tetovo Bitola Skopje 4 Kumanovo Main finding: the readiness to vote prevails in 5 towns 6 Shtip Strumica BITOLA 5(М) (R) All 6 participants would vote for a multiethnic coalition. The argument is that we should vote for people, and not nationalities, and they do not see a need to split on the basis of nationality -...Yes, well we vote for people, not for a nationality... (М) -... There are representatives from all nationalities in the Parliament (R) SHTIP 7(М) (R) Almost all participants are in agreement to vote for multi ethnic coalitions, except two (R andм) -... Those two parties don t like each other, let alone, if there is an Albanian, Roma, Turk...(R) -... If it is the right people, yes, if they are not, then, no... STRUMICA 5 (М) All answers were the same and affirmative, without a lot of offered responses or arguments -... I would vote if it is a good party, why ever not? Macedonia is all of us Yes we all should be on... 7

28 Multiethnic policies Question:.. Would you vote for a party if on its list, it has candidates from more nationalities (Including Macedonians, Albanians, Serbs, Roma, Turks )? SKOPJE (М) (А) All participants who participated in the discussions agreed that they would vote And why would it be a problem?... KUMANOVO (М) (А) The group unanimously and declaratively, without a desire to discuss further, gives support to multiethnic coalitions and candidates lists with candidates of more nationalities. LEGEND I would vote Abstained I would not = Not active TETOVO 5 (А) Most participants believe that if the party is functional and has a selfless, realistic platform, they would vote for it without a problem. One stated that he would not vote, and would think about it in terms of percentage representation If it is a realistic party, I would vote without any dilemma I would not if there are members on the lists... Bitola Kumanovo Main finding: There is declarative readiness in all towns 8 BITOLA 7 (М) (R) Shtip Strumica The group unanimously gives support to a party which has candidates from several nationalities on their list. The offered program is important and not the nationality of candidates. -...If they offer a program... Tetovo Skopje 8 8 SHTIP 7(М) (Р) Almost all participants are in agreement that they would vote for a party which has candidates from more nationalities on their list. This questions did not spark a more detailed discussion. They mostly spoke about equality in the general flow of the discussions Collegiality, collectivity, yes Equality in any case on basis of nationality STRUMICA (8) There is a cohesion in the opinions and stances on this question as well, which resulted in affirmative responses, and without a bigger number of offered answers and arguments for the contrary -... We are people, and they are people. It is for the state Why not?... 8

29 4 Topic 4 - Special Prosecution Office (SPO) 9

30 SPO Question: According to you, was there a need to establish the Special Prosecution Office? BITOLA 5(M) (R) 6 (5М,R) TETOVO 8 (А) 8 STRUMICA 8 (М) 6 Everyone is in an agreement that there was a need to establish the SPO, but there is a polarization in terms of their ways of work - the wiretapping their eyes are opened now SPO will have to prove the corruption... (М) - it cannot work only against one political side SPO definitely works for the opposition...(r) -... The situation itself imposed it pressure, otherwise the cases would not reach the court...(м) The group is in unanimous agreement that there was a need to form SPO Yes, without discussion, yes... Most think there was no need to form SPO emphasizing the unnecessary expenditures and it does not have a real effect There should be someone to look at things in an unbiased way There was no need, a lot of money was spent, and no results No, I think there was no need at all Well I think SPO is needed, but with an audit function... SHTIP 6 (М) (М,R) Divided stance on this questions from the members of the group, without deeper arguments from either side If the judiciary did its job, there would not have been a need, and at this moment, there was a need. We will see if it is right or not I do not have an opinion. If it was established, then there was a need for it to be established Well there was no need There should be something, but not this public, they are overdoing it (А,М) 6(А,М) KUMANOVO (М) (А) The participants are in agreement that it was needed to form SPO with a remark (Alb) that a special judiciary is also needed In this situation yes... (М) -... It was needed, but with a parallel special judiciary... (А) SKOPJE (М) 4(А) Divided opinions of the group participants between abstained and those who think there was a need to form SPO -...this was a suggestion of SDSM I agree with it, what is unclean, should be cleaned... (М) -... I think this is a circus, I am not buying it... (А) -... Maybe there is, if they decided on it...(а) -... Well, I don t know, maybe... (М) Main finding: majority of participants (6%) think there was a need to establish SPO 4(А,М) (А,М)

31 SPO Question: Do you see the establishing of SPO as a possibility to exit the political crisis in Macedonia which was a result of the illegal wiretapped phone calls? (Р, М) BITOLA Polarized views. According to ones, the non-objectivity of SPO deepens the crisis, and according to others, it is the only body that will solve it. - there can be an exit, it they execute it as they should -No, it was formed to prolong the crisis they launder money, that s it, the end -... A judge is prosecuting you, a judge is judging you, is how things were, now SPO needs to. Prove the corruption TETOVO Unanimous support for SPO, it is viewed as the only exit from the crisis, the need to form a special court was mentioned -... SPO is absolutely a factor to get out of this spiraling situation -... I have hope that it will influence the resolution of the political crisis It is in vain to have a special prosecution, when we do not have a special court 6 STRUMICA Distrust towards SPO, it is seen as a formality, disappointment from its inactivity - No, on the contrary, I think it has deepened the crisis further more... - When SPO was being elected, even to me, it looked like a farce -... I personally saw that something was going to happen. However my expectations were not fulfilled (R, М) 4 (А,М) (А,М) (М) (А) (М) (М) (А) (М,А) SHTIP Emphasized pessimism about the resolution of the crisis, skepticism and distrust about SPO s capacity to resolve such a deep crisis -No, there can only be war SPO should not be a factor in the resolution of the crisis in Macedonia -... It seems like we are on the battlefield KUMANOVO Half of the FG are giving support, balanced between two nationalities. The others view it with skepticism, and only one views it as fraud (М). -...all of this seems a little skeptical (А) -... It is a wonderful mask for us to think that everything is legitimate...(м) -... If they don t have support from people and from abroad, SPO will not get us out of the crisis (А) -...I see it only as one of the options (М) SKOPJE Divided views. Albanians show optimism about SPO, and Macedonians show increased skepticism about the ability and the capacity of SPO because of the crisis size It will serve, it is serving, citizens know who, what, how (А) -... It will be hard to get to the end of it (М) -... No, because the cases that are processed by SPO, should be worked by the PP, and we know who has a grip on the PP...(А) Main finding: Almost equally, participants are divided in viewing SPO as a possibility for exit from the political crisis (5%) and % who have a contrary opinion

32 SPO Question: Do you think SPO works impartially and independently from political influences? BITOLA (М,R) Divided opinions between partially (works for the opposition) and impartially There are pressures from both sides I am not well informed, maybe it is possible... TETOVO Participants think that SPO works impartially and independently, the need to form a Special Court was emphasized They are real, they publicly state what they are working on I have not heard that they solved anything so far VMRO is the party which obstructs their work... 7 STRUMICA Everyone responded that SPO works partially. As a reason, they stated the big pressure from the parties and it is hard to remain objective Well, I also think partially, because even if they don t want it, there is a big pressure They are irresponsible towards themselves and others around them Yes, I think they are partial. Judging from the press conferences they hold... 7 (М,R) (М,А) (М) (М,А) (А) (А) 4(М,А) (М,А) SHTIP Divided views on this question. Some participants stated they don t know enough, and one mentioned that SPO members take big salaries I will say only this, they have big salaries according to me, it is impartial I also think partial, I don t know a lot I don t know what to say, I hear something here, something there, it is all the same... KUMANOVO Polarized responses. Two participants (А, М) think SPO works impartially, (М) thinks that there is not enough information, and three think SPO is under pressures from both sides There is strong pressure from one side and from the other side... (М) -... It is far fetched to think they work impartially.. (М) -... I think they are impartial...(м) SKOPJE Most participants think that SPO works partially. The discussion went on in the direction that there is a big pressure over SPO There is pressure...(м) -... Works properly...(а) -... I do not believe they work impartially...(а) -... There are pressures. I would not say it is impartial...(м) Main finding: Every third participant (%) thinks that SPO works impartially, and, 4% think it is exposed to pressures which make it hard to remain impartial.

33 SPO Question: According to you, do some political parties obstruct the work of SPO? If yes, which ones? (М) 6 (R, 5М) BITOLA Only two people expressed views on this question, and both of them agreed that the obstructions are coming from the suspects -...Yes, those that are prosecuted are not supporting them -... Every time there is a press conference of SPO, the most fierce reaction is from those who are investigated, let me say TETOVO Only three participated. All of them think that it is VMRO-DPMNE or the ruling parties VMRO is the party that obstructs that work The ruling parties 5 STRUMICA According to four participants, the obstructions are coming from both the opposition and the government I think it s both sides 4 4 SHTIP Most participants are in agreement that there are obstructions from both sides -... Yes. There are pressures from both sides -... We all share the same opinion (R) 5 (R, 4М) (A) (M) 4 (М A) KUMANOVO Divided views. Half of them (М,А) think they are coming from the government, and the rest (М,А) from both sides -... Probably from the government, because their actions are directed towards them (М) -... From both sides М) -... I think that those in power are against her, and she is working as her program dictates(а) 4(М Ал) 4 (М М) SKOPJE Among Albanian participants, the opinion that VMRO-DPMNE is obstructing the work prevails, and only one Macedonian expresses a view that there are obstructions from both sides. Others do not participate in the discussion Now it is very obvious, VMRO-DPMNE is doing it for the last three days (А) -... Both sides (М) Main finding: Almost every second participant (46%) thinks that political parties obstruct the work of SP, the obstructions are coming from the suspects, VMRO-DPMNE i.e. ruling parties (%) and 6% believe it is coming from both sides.

34 SPO Question: SPO stated that in the next period it will intensify its work. What do you think about it, what is the reason for this statement? Associations... Maybe they were waiting for a date for elections, and now they will push forward... (М) (Bt)... We are entering another political phase we are ahead of elections and some things need to be processed and to have more support and security (А) (Те) We are ahead of elections (М) (St) This procedure should be made faster, because tensions are appearing among people, some instability, one doesn t know what will happen tomorrow while walking down the street (М) (St) They did not do anything this year, two cases, three case, as far as I know...(м) (St) I don t have a lot of information, probably there is no time because elections are approaching, she needs to stop with those statements, prosecutions, it will be forbidden in a pre-election period, stopped (М) (Ku) Will wait for directives from outside, maybe not to create problems before elections in Macedonia (А) (Ku) It is connected to the elections. (А) (Sk) Interpretations In all towns except Shtip, according to the active participants in the discussion, the announcement of the SPO to intensify its work is due to the upcoming elections. In Shtip, the active participants, list the following reasons: Unstable and insecure situation which results from tensions among citizens.. The weak activity of SPO in the past period and the small number of cases opened by the special prosecution office. Intensification of the work of the SPO is expected because the uncertainties related to the work of the SPO generates tensions in the public.

35 SPO Question: Do you think that the SPO has enough time to file indictments or there is need to extend the deadline for filing an indictment? BITOLA (R) Due to the lack of information, almost all participants have not formed a stance about the need to extend the deadline, and only participants express their opinion If there is a mandate, then there is a need... (М) -... The SPO should have done a lot by now, they only give hope that something will happen, but it will not...(r) SHTIP Polarized views on this question. Some state that SPO works slowly, and others are talking about the complexity of the material SPO has at its disposal and it takes time SPO has a lot of cases they need to solve To be continued I wanted to say that, that there is no time, it needs to be continued There is no time for anything, that s a fact... 6 (М,R) TETOVO The general stance of the group is that more time is needed, and the reason for that is the complexity of the materials on SPO s disposal They may speed up the work, but without a realization, it doesn t matter They will not have time to listen through all the bombs, there are a lot of people, it takes a lot of time They need a lot of time More time is needed for a proper solution... (М) KUMANOVO The answer by the participants that they do not have enough information in order to respond dominates the discussion They will ask for two more years, they have enough, they should solve everything and good bye...(м) -... There will be need, if one wants to clear up everything...(м) -... I don t know, I don t have any information...(а) 7 (А,М) 5 STRUMICA Most participants think that there is time, but SPO is not doing their job in a timely manner, which is accompanied with negative comments There is enough time, if they work Irresponsible. Just to sit and get salaries There was time, but we did not see any results I think there was time to show results... SKOPJE The stance that more time should be given prevails over those who are not informed enough to give an answer There is need because they only listened through % of the wiretapped conversations...(а) -... Time should be given to clear up a lot of these issues...(а) -... Well, I don t know, I don t know, really (М) 4 (А,М) (М) 4(А,М) Main finding: every third participant is for prolonging the time (%) every fifth stated that there is enough time (%) and the same number have stated that they are not informed enough to take stand 5

36 5 State Election Commission (SEC) 6

37 SEC Question: Do you have trust in the work of the SEC? BITOLA Two participants state that they don t have trust in the SEC, and as an explanation they state that the members are nominated by parties, while the other participants in the discussion don t have a stance SEC members are nominated by parties, they will not do their job professionally, but semiprofessionally It is the same as political parties I am not sure if I trust them or not... 4 (М,R) TETOVO Divided views of the group participants, but the distrust in the SEC prevails, one trusts SEC partially, but states that they need to work more I don t have trust at all If they work more, they will achieve the goal I don t have trust at all... 4 STRUMICA Polarized views. Expressed trust with certain dilemmas I don t know, I don t trust them, they work as they work, and I have not developed trust I have trust because they cannot do a lot of manipulations They steal boxes, wait, how are they stealing boxes I do. These are the lists, there are voters SHTIP Divided views in terms of trust in the SEC. Short, without arguments I have trust in SEC as well I can say that I trust SEC work... (R) -... I personally don t trust anyone... 4(М,R) (А,М) 5(М,А) KUMANOVO Divided views. Most of them express trust, which is based on hope and desire for it to succeed It seems they will pass some just decisions which will make us trust them... (А) -... Well I should have it, but I don t fully trust it because I know there are party people there...(м) -... I do, but with some reservations...(м) -... No, I don t have full trust...(а) SKOPJE A short, clear discussion was developed in which 7 participants stated that they don t have trust in SEC, one of them quite emotionally stated that he does not trust any institutions in the state We don t have trust in anything... (М) -... I do...(м) (М) 7 Main finding: The distrust in SEC is dominant (46%) compared to the trust in the SEC (%). 7

38 SEC Question: Do you think SEC has capacity to conduct fair and democratic elections? BITOLA The group seems uninformed about SEC, and the responses are with a critical tone and distrust -... It works the same under party instructions I don t know who leads them, I don t know them -... I don t think, it may have, it may not have... 5(4М,R ) TETOVO The group has a positive response on this question, but only if it is not under party influences If the state wants it So we always have capacities it is important to choose which part of the brain will be used for thinking I think they have capacity, but they should not be under party influence If they are not under party influence, they can... 7 STRUMICA In the responses, it is obvious that there is a dose of uncertainty and none of the answers have strong argument-based background. The responses have the character of expectation and hope -... Well they will conduct them, but it depends on the polling sites, how will they dictate it Well, the elections will be conducted, I don t know about their fairness It does not depend on the SEC, it depends on the state itself, people and parties... 5 (М,R ) 4 (М) (А М) 5(Ал,М) (М) (М) 5 (4А М) SHTIP Polarized short responses, without larger discussion and arguments I have faith. Each anomaly that happens in an electoral district, is reported... (Р) -... Yes, yes No... KUMANOVO They have it, but they don t want to They have capacity, but they are obstructed SKOPJE I think they don t have it They have capacity Main finding: The assessment of the SEC s capacities shows a prevalence of the stance that SEC has a capacity - 8% as opposed to the stance that is does not 5%. 8

39 SEC Question: Do you think that the adopted methodology to clean up the contested voters will result in a credible Voters List which will reflect the real number of voters in the Republic of Macedonia? (М,R) 4 4 BITOLA Weak discussion intensity, only two participants talk about the problem in a wider context -... I don t think so There should have been a census first, and then elections That s why, the Voters List is not good, and it cannot be made good They will vote for dead people and the party will get votes... TETOVO Four participants expressed negative opinion about the adopted methodology or the contested voters I don t believe so, the clean up was done because of the Albanians, and the number of Macedonians is increased I don t believe so... STRUMICA There is uncertainty in the responses in relation to this topic which is accompanied with a dose of hope and optimism And what methodology is that? And who saw or understood what was cleaned up? I think it will be ok. Let s trust them They are experts. Let s trust them... 6(5М,R) SHTIP One participant expressed argument-based opinion that the adopted methodology will not bear fruits, and the other participants are not informed enough No, because SEC member cannot come to an agreement and they always criticize each other No comment I don t have a comment, either. I am not well informed... KUMANOVO No optimism is noticed, they stated that there are still phantom voters and the process has not been completed Because I don t have trust in SEC and this is related to that... (А) -... It is not cleaned up enough, that has not been completed, it has only been started...(м) -... There is distrust, there are fictitious voters, each government is abusing them...(а) -... It is confirmed that both SDSM and VMRO did the same thing... (А) 5(М, А) SKOPJE (М А) 6 (4М А) Divided stances of participants on this question. Part of them express hope, and others distrust and pessimism The Voters List will never be cleaned It will reflect the real picture Let s hope so... Main finding: Fewer participants believe that the adopted methodology for cleaning up will result in a credible Voters List 9% versus % who do not believe it will. The citizens have identified the census as a solution to the situation with the Voters List. 9

40 SEC Question: Have you checked whether you are on the Voters List? If yes, how did you check? SKOPJE - Only 4 out of 8 participants took part in the discussion, only (А) checked if he is on the Voters List, and the other (М) (А) stated that they do not know how or where to check - Electronically KUMANOVO 4 out of 8 participants took part in the discussion, only (А) electronically checked if he is on the list, (М) did not state where they have checked even tough they have done it, one (А) has not checked LEGEND Yes -- No = Not active TETOVO - Only 4 out of 8 participants took part in the discussion, only checked, but was not on the list, does not know how to check, have not checked - Electronically Tetovo 5 Skopje 4 Kumanovo 4 Shtip Strumica 7 SHTIP - All participants but, have stated that they have not checked whether they are on the Voters List - The participant who has checked did not state where he did that (a wider discussion did not develop) Main finding: - Checked % - Did not check 44% Bitola 4 BITOLA - A small part of the participants, out of 8 stated that they have checked whether they are on the Voters List (R М), (М) has not checked - Everyone checked electronically 7 STRUMICA - The whole group took part in this discussion. 7 of them stated that they have not checked whether they are on the Voters List, and of them has checked. - Electronically 4

41 SEC Question: Do you think that the last agreement between the four political parties can create conditions to have fair and democratic elections in Macedonia? BITOLA None of the participants is informed about the agreement - I have no idea what they agreed on 8 TETOVO Emphasized negative stance by all participants. They view the agreement as a formality - I do not believe that the agreement can create such conditions, those are words, we always have words, words, and nothing gets implemented. - People don t believe it, I think it is a reality that people do not have hope anymore 8 STRUMICA All participants see the agreement as an opportunity and potential, but they don t believe in its implementation by the parties. - It all depends on them, if they decide that there will be, there will be, if not, there won t be -... Yes, yes it can. There are conditions for elections, the question is whether they want, them or not... 8 (R) 7 (М) (А) 6 (А М) (М) (М) (А М) (А) SHTIP The biggest number of participants do not have trust in the election processes in RM throughout the years, and the agreement is not viewed as hope to improve or change that situation -... We have never had fair and democratic elections, and we will not have... KUMANOVO A negative stance about the functionality of the agreement prevails, and it is well balanced between both nationalities Which time is this for them to agree on something? This is already seen, nothing new, so we can t believe it will...(м) -... It reminds me of empty words, I have no hope in them, nobody has capacity to move forward... (М) SKOPJE Divided views. The stance that there are no conditions prevails among Albanian participants, and the positive stance that it will create conditions for fair elections prevails among the Macedonian participants. - I think it can, everything is agreed upon and there will be elections on December (М) -... I don t believe there will be fair and democratic elections, there has never been one...(а) Main finding: Twice as much participants do not believe (5%) that the last agreement between the four parties will create conditions for fair and democratic elections in relation to 5% who believe it will do so. 4

42 Question: How many of the following things do you think are fulfilled or will be fulfilled by election day: CLEANING UP OF THE VOTERS LIST TETOVO Two participants think the list will not be cleaned The list is not definitive... SKOPJE Three (М,А) participants think that the Voters List will be cleaned up, four (А,М) that it won t be, and one participants does not know I don t think it can I think it will be I think it will never be clean... Tetovo 6 KUMANOVO Three (М,А) participants think that the Voters List will not be fully cleaned The Voters List will not be cleaned up It will remain no matter now clean it is... Kumanovo Skopje 5 4 Shtip LEGEND Yes Neutral No = Not active SHTIP Two participants think that the Voters List has been cleaned up, and three (M, R) that it has not. Strumica Bitola 8 5 STRUMICA Most of the participants believe the Voters List has been cleaned up What they said about the cleaning of the Voters List, it is already completed -... Only the Voters List, nothing else... BITOLA Participants think the process is completed but without a successful result Main finding: 8% of the participants think that by election day, the Voters List will be cleaned, and twice as less look on the possibility of fulfilling this condition with skepticism (9%). 4

43 Question: How many of the following things do you think are fulfilled or will be fulfilled by election day: ENSURING SECRECY OF THE VOTE AND CONDITIONS TO VOTE FREE OF POLITICAL PRESSURES AND THREATS SKOPJE Six (А,М) participants think that this condition will not be fulfilled There will be pressures always... (М) -... There have been and there always will be...(а) KUMANOVO Four (А,М) participants think that this condition will not be fulfilled There is pressure, one votes for a job, votes for the streets to be made, to keep his job I think it won t... LEGEND Yes Neutral No = Not active SHTIP Divided opinions on this question TETOVO Three participants think that this condition will be fulfilled I think it can be fulfilled Yes, I think it can be fulfilled Tetovo 5 Skopje 6 Kumanovo 4 4 Shtip Well I think it can I won t... Strumica 8 4 STRUMICA Four participants think that this condition will not be fulfilled, and one thinks it will be. Bitola - there will always be pressures BITOLA No responses on this question Main finding: In terms of ensuring secrecy of the vote and conditions to vote free of political pressure, every tenth participant (%) believes it is possible, and almost three times more participants(%) believe it is not possible. It is symptomatic that more than half of participants do not state anything (54%) 4

44 Question: How many of the following things do you think are fulfilled or will be fulfilled by election day: SEPARATION OF STATE AND PARTY SKOPJE Out of 8 active participants, (4М, А) this condition cannot be fulfilled before the elections KUMANOVO 4 active participants (М, А) have a pessimistic stance because of identification of opposing parties with the state - Both Gruevski and Zaev say, the state, that s me - The parties say we are Macedonia, all parties say that which speaks that this will never be separated LEGEND Yes Neutral No = Not active TETOVO Negative stance of all three active participants - Almost impossible especially for these elections Tetovo 5 Skopje Kumanovo Shtip 7 SHTIP Negative stance from all 7 active participants Main finding: The separation of the state from the parties will not be fulfilled by election day (56%). Others do not express an opinion (4%), only one participant believes that it will happen by the election day. Bitola 5 Strumica BITOLA Participants think that the partisanship is so widely spread that its separation would be a long process which won t be finished by election day - Everything is partisan and all institutions cannot be separated over night 5 STRUMICA No discussion took place on this question. Two out of the three active participants responded with no, and one with yes. 44

45 Question: How many of the following things do you think are fulfilled or will be fulfilled by election day: FREEDOM OF THE MEDIA SKOPJE 6 out of 8 participants got involved in the discussion in which 4(М, А) expressed a stance that there is no freedom of the media, and it will not be achieved, and the other (М) do not agree with that....media should be a bit more realistic, what media can do, nobody else can do it TETOVO 7 out of 8 participants got involved in the discussion and reached an agreement that the freedom of media will not be achieved.... Media should function outside of politics The time is short to have free media on these elections... Main finding: Almost half think that freedom of media will not be achieved (44%), and only % believe that this condition will be fulfilled. Bitola Skopje 5 KUMANOVO 5 out of 8 participants got involved in the discussion (М, А) and they all share the stance that freedom of media will not be achieved -...All media have been drowned by certain parties. - Each party has its own medium. Kumanovo 5 Tetovo 4 7 Shtip Strumica 4 BITOLA Not even one participant expressed a stance on whether this condition will be fulfilled. The discussion was focused on the need to implement the law on media, and only one of them thinks that there is a need of implementation. LEGEND Yes Neutral No = Not active SHTIP 5 out of 8 participants got involved in the discussion. of them think that there will be freedom of the media, while do not share this opinion, and does not know. STRUMICA 4 out of 8 participants actively got involved in the discussion and only of them expressed a stance which spoke about the work that is being done to improve the freedom of the media, and three others did not share his opinion.... About freedom of media, the work is in progress, I have seen some changes. 45

46 6 Recommendations to the parties and the new post-electoral government 46