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North Macedonia institutional and demographic challenges

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2026-09-05 15:47 UTC → 2026-09-09 07:28 UTC · added ~~removed~~

North Macedonia continues to navigate institutional and demographic challenges. The country is managing a legal trial concerning the ‘State Lottery’ case involving approximately 8 million euros, while simultaneously addressing a severe demographic decline. In 2025, the nation recorded a natural population loss of 4,437 people, a trend driven by low birth rates and emigration. This demographic decline persisted into 2026. During the second quarter of 2026, deaths outnumbered births by 1,005 people, with 3,684 births recorded—a 3.0 percent decrease from the previous year—against 4,689 deaths. This crisis is directly impacting the education system. As the 2026/2027 school year begins, the impact on educational infrastructure has become more pronounced. Data shows that approximately 3,000 fewer children enrolled in the first grade compared to last year, with total first-grade enrollment falling to roughly 14,900 from 17,900. This has resulted in 433 fewer school classes and the temporary closure of 26 rural or underpopulated school facilities. Recent updates indicate that 148 school facilities are currently without students, primarily in rural areas. Education Minister Vesna Janevska noted that the shrinking population threatens the long-term viability of the infrastructure and urged families to consider having more children. Compounding these issues is a disconnect in the real estate market. While over 36,000 new housing units were completed between 2020 and 2025, approximately 307,187 dwellings—roughly 36.6 percent of the total housing stock—remained unoccupied according to the 2021 census. Despite this, property prices continue to rise, with costs per square meter exceeding 3,000 euros in high-demand areas of Skopje and Ohrid. Recent data from the State Statistical Office highlights further shifts in family structures between 2020 and 2025. Total marriages have declined, with 10,507 recorded in 2025.

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