UNICEF: Almost all children in North Macedonia exposed to polluted air and heatwaves

A UNICEF climate‑risk report for 2026 finds that virtually all children in North Macedonia face multiple climate threats. The study shows 99.9 % of children are exposed to hazardous air pollution, 87 % experience heatwaves and 73 % are affected by drought.

Leslie Miller, UNICEF representative, said, "Children in North Macedonia are growing up in a changing climate… extreme heat, drought and polluted air, unfortunately, are part of everyday life." The report calls for urgent climate action centred on children, including emission cuts and stronger health, education and social‑protection systems to reduce vulnerability to climate shocks.