Baskim Mislimi

Tolerance is the greatest gift of the mind 

Professional experience: Professor of physics, employed at the moment in the primary school “Naim Fraseri” in Delogozda

Engagement in the civic sector: I started working in the civil sector in 1999 with the initiative of a group of intellectuals of different nationalities when we established the Association for democratic culture – “Toleranca” in Struga. I was elected its president and since then I have been on that position, leading this organization which is engaged in the protection of human rights, development of the democratic processes, interethnic tolerance and close cooperation between the citizens and the local and central government. I am aware of the fact that the work in these fields is hard and that it requires flexibility, since the results are not easily visible, despite the huge efforts that are made.

Ambitions: Finding a job according to my vocation as physics professor and completing my masters degree, work in the civil sector with a chance to help the citizens realize their rights. My other ambition is to open a center for more active involvement of the citizens in the decisions of the municipal council, especially in the process of passing the new law on decentralization, which gives the municipality greater competences. 

Hobbies and interests: Collecting books and reading them in my free time. Doing some sport, arranging my garden, walking and traveling to places in order to meet different cultures. 

In his free time he reads: I do not have much free time since I am dedicated to a number of activities and meetings for promoting our civil organization. When I find some time, I read different encyclopedias and the latest news in my profession, especially those that are related to the science and the astronomy.

At weekends: If I am free from my professional obligations, I spend my time with my wife and children, the eleven-year-old Fatjona and the nine-year-old Drilon. I have a cup of coffee in good company and walk in Struga enjoying the beauty of Lake Ohrid.

Toughest decision: It is hardest for me to make decisions about someone I invested in, and that person has not returned with respect, both in my professional work and the civic sector. I also find it hard to give a bad mark to a student.   

Which national (local) problem does he find especially important and why: This is an easy question with a difficult answer. There are too many on the top. However, I will primarily mention the economic problems, unemployment and poverty.

Which global problem does he find especially important and why: The development of democratic processes. 

What would he change in Macedonia and the world: Make citizens believe more in the civil society as an important factor for the development of democracy. The tolerance is the greatest gift of the mind. 

Advice (message): Do not place obstacles to any citizen who is able to do something, respect their professional readiness to lead us to Europe so that we are not isolated any more, asking for visas in front of the embassies.