Changing systems is one of the most important steps in a society’s progress. When I was born in Skopje, North Macedonia, in 1992, I was fortunate to have been spared from the political and social turmoil prevalent in the Balkans. I witnessed the transformation of values, governance, and institutions in my country as it shifted from socio-communist to democratic. That alone affected my career and goals – I became a legal professional in finance law and risk management.

Law and Government Foundation

As a child of diverse cultures, my peers from various nationalities and religions taught me that everyone, regardless of their background or culture, shares an innate desire to succeed in life. This revelation led me to study law, as I believed that the rule of law was the most significant accomplishment a community could achieve. My education at the Iustinianus Primus Law School at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje helped me gain a solid foundation in legal principles and the philosophy behind them. Earning my Master of Laws degree in Skopje, along with my D.U. studies at the National University of Strasbourg (where I obtained a double degree diploma in intellectual property law), deepened my understanding that law is not just about rules and regulations – it is also about building sustainable and democratic societies. This realization became the key to my career trajectory.

Advancement: Moving from Administrative Law to Green Finance

My career path began at the Embassy of Serbia in 2017, where I gained knowledge of diplomatic legal systems and international cooperation as a lawyer. By 2018, I had moved to the State Archives of the Republic of North Macedonia, acquiring valuable experience in institutional management and regulatory compliance. In 2023, I found my true passion and made a significant impact at the Ministry of Finance. My first role was in the Public Debt Department, where I worked for two years, developing legal frameworks for bonds and loan agreements across various financial instruments. A significant moment in my career was my involvement in issuing North Macedonia’s first Green Bond, which ignited my passion for promoting sustainable financial systems. Realizing the enormous potential of green finance, I decided to continue studies in bonds under Eco-taxonomy, climate risk management, and independent research on climate risks. These experiences affirmed my resolve to prioritize financial policy over sustainability. After joining the Ministry of Finance’s Central Harmonization Department, I gained a deeper understanding of internal financial control systems and objective risk management, acquiring a certificate in climate risk management from the CEF.

The Legal Perspective on Risk Management and Sustainable Finance

As a lawyer specializing in financial law, I have realized the complex interplay between financial laws and environmental sustainability. One of the primary challenges in green finance is ensuring that legislative frameworks support effective and transparent investments in renewable energy and climate resilience projects. The success of this process is dependent on risk management. Furthermore, ensuring sustainability in public finance calls for a multidimensional approach. Financial decision-making requires the inclusion of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations in long-term plans developed by governments and financial institutions. Green bonds, sustainable investments, and financing for renewable energy are key to a transition towards a low-carbon economy. However, the legal framework must be strong enough to stop greenwashing and ensure that funds are used as intended. Beyond finance, risk management in sustainable development involves managing climate risks, addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities, and adapting public policy. Given the ongoing existential threats associated with climate change, incorporating risk assessment methods into governance structures is essential for preserving economic stability and environmental resilience. Additionally, this requires legal action on a larger scale, including implementing stronger policies, improving compliance mechanisms, and increasing transparency in green financial systems.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

After a period of transitioning from administrative law to green finance and risk management, I have learned that policy implementation necessitates collaboration, political will, and robust legal structures. Managing bureaucracy, maintaining the balance between economic priorities and sustainability goals, and ensuring that financial instruments meet environmental objectives have been challenging. One of the most crucial lessons I have learned is that change is incremental. Building a complete green financial system is not an overnight process; it takes persistent advocacy, continuous learning, and willingness to modify policies in response to changing environmental and economic circumstances. Through my work, I have seen how incremental changes in financial laws can lead to drastic improvements in public accountability and sustainability.

In Search of an Environmentally Friendly Future

Despite my background in administrative law, I have developed expertise in sustainable finance and risk management. This has emphasized the need for legal systems to adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances. By focusing on green finance and risk mitigation, I aim to contribute to the development of a more sustainable and resilient financial system in North Macedonia and beyond. As we look ahead, it is imperative to incorporate sustainability into financial governance. By collaborating with legal professionals, policymakers, and financial institutions, we can ensure that the transition toward green and sustainable finance is not only effective but also fair for future generations. This is crucial. To achieve a truly sustainable financial system, additional efforts must be made to educate professionals on green finance principles, strengthen regulatory compliance, and foster international cooperation. Only by prioritizing sustainable financing methods can we address climate risks, enhance economic resilience, and create an enduring legacy for future generations. My resolve is unwavering: to establish a financial system that promotes environmental sustainability while maintaining the highest standards of legal integrity and risk management. Knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and policy innovation are essential to building a prosperous and responsible financial system that balances economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being.