The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of social and economic life in the Western Balkan (WB) countries. However, it faces challenges of slow productivity growth, limited access to assets, and vulnerability to external shocks like climate change. Agricultural policies are crucial to enhance...

This paper empirically analyses the determining factors of the growth in the migration rate in the countries of the Western Balkans. The analysis is carried out with panel data over 17 years from 2005 to 2021. The purpose of this paper is to analyse social variables such as unemployment and...

Insurance companies play a pivotal role in the financial systems of developing countries, wielding substantial influence on systemic financial stability. Thus, understanding their efficiency, performance, and sustainability is paramount for policymakers and stakeholders alike. The aim of this...

Since 25 June 2024, the 27 member states of the European Union (EU) have been engaging in accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The EU wants and needs to provide a strategic response to new geopolitical challenges, especially the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. At the same...

This Selected Issues paper focuses on challenges and policies regarding climate change in the Republic of North Macedonia. A scale-up of private and public investments, along with decommission of old and polluting coal-based power plants, is needed to adapt to climate change and meet emissions...

This paper discusses Republic of North Macedonia's 2023 Article IV Consultation and First Review under the Precautionary and Liquidity Line (PLL). The authorities are progressing toward PLL objectives, encompassing the safeguarding of public finances, reduction of energy subsidies, addressing...

This report focuses on the agri-food sector in North Macedonia and investigates the potential and necessary actions for adopting a green growth trajectory. Agri-food is a key sector in need of transformation to achieve green growth in the country. The sector has great economic importance, and it...

North Macedonia, an Eastern European nation of 1.836 million inhabitants, has a growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). An aging population and high levels of NCD risk factors are mainly responsible, with tobacco, raised blood pressure, and unhealthy diets driving mortality and...

The Country Opinion Survey in North Macedonia assists the World Bank Group (WBG) in gaining a better understanding of how stakeholders in North Macedonia perceive the WBG. It provides the WBG with systematic feedback from national and local governments, multilateral/bilateral agencies, media,...