North Macedonia
Switzerland supports reforms in North Macedonia that strengthen democratic institutions, foster sustainable economic development, support the sustainable management of natural resources, and reduce the risks related to climate change. The cooperation programme is based on shared values and interests, in particular stability and security, democratic governance, sustainable development, and partnership. It contributes to the country’s European integration process.
Context North Macedonia
In North Macedonia the prospect of joining the European Union (EU) is an important driver of change. However, delays in the opening of the accession negotiations have undermined the confidence in the EU and its values and polarised the society. Despite progress made in reforming the legislative framework, implementation of policies remains challenging. Corruption, weak rule of law, out migration, and clientelism are hampering the country’s democratic, economic and social development.
Aligned with the country’s priorities, the Cooperation Programme 2025-2028 aims to support reforms towards the European integration by strengthening democratic institutions and practices, fostering sustainable economic development and supporting sustainable management of natural resources and resilience to climate change.
Democratic and good governance
Switzerland is committed to strengthening the capacities of state institutions and civil society at the national and local levels by promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Swiss interventions also support the inclusion and participation of citizens, particularly youth, women, and minorities. Particular emphasis is placed on the fight against corruption, especially at the municipal level, through the development of transparent and inclusive decision-making mechanisms, monitoring of the use of funds, and digitization of public services. Switzerland fosters dialogue between authorities, civil society and political actors. It supports the reform of the Parliament for enhanced independence and effectiveness as well as increased oversight capacities; it contributes to advance the electoral reform to align with the recommendations of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
Sustainable economic development
Switzerland supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in improving their productivity and international competitiveness, with a focus on promoting exports. Particular emphasis is placed on the ecological transition of the private sector and its compliance with the European standards. In close collaboration with the chambers of commerce, Switzerland also supports the establishment of an effective vocational education and skills development system that enables the private sector to access necessary expertise and opens new and decent jobs’ opportunities for young people.
Water and the environment
Switzerland continues to support municipalities and public utilities in developing infrastructure, strengthening institutional and technical capacities, and in providing sustainable, climate-resilient water and waste management services. Particular emphasis is placed on improving energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy and circular economy principles in the water and sanitation sector. Integrated water resource management, nature conservation, ecosystem resilience, and enhanced community resilience in flood-prone areas remain priorities of the Swiss interventions.
Approach and main partners
Switzerland’s international cooperation in North Macedonia is implemented jointly by the SDC and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). These activities are based on formal agreements with the government. Switzerland participates in programs co-financed by multiple countries and/or national and local authorities. It implements a systemic approach aimed at strengthening national institutions and systems while complementing the efforts of other development actors.
Switzerland’s main partners in North Macedonia are:
- Government (ministries) and municipalities;
- National Parliament (Presidency, administration, parliamentary groups), Electoral Commission and Supervisory Agencies (Audit, Anti-Corruption Commission);
- Private sector: SMEs, chambers of commerce and consultants;
- Civil society organisations;
- Swiss and international civil society organisations;
- International organisations: the United Nations Development Programm (UNDP), the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF);
- Development banks: the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the World Bank;
- EU and bilateral donors: Sweden, the US and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
Stories
Nature Conservation and Local Development: It’s a Match!
The "Nature Conservation Programme" in North Macedonia demonstrates how nature conservation and local development mutually reinforce each other.
Contact
Eichenweg 5
3003 Bern