Macedonia Facts

Northern Macedonia, state of the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe; 25,713 km², 2.1 million residents (2019).Northern Macedonia borders Serbia in the north, Albania in the west, Greece in the south and Bulgaria in the east. The capital is Skopje (500 400 residents, 2015). The country was recognized in 1993 by the UN under the name Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) and on 12 February 2019 changed its formal name from Macedonia to Northern Macedonia.

Country facts

• Republika Severna Makedonija / Northern Macedonia
• Country abbreviation: MK
• Area: 25 713 km²
• Population (2019): 2.1 million residents
• Capital: Skopje
• Main languages: Macedonian, Albanian
• State: Republic
• Head of State: Stevo Pendarovski (President)
• Head of Government: Zoran Zaev
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 6,084
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 5,450
• Currency unit: 1 new Macedonian denar = 100 deni
• Currency code: MKD
• Country number (telephony): 389
• Internet domain name: mk
• Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
• National Day: August 2 (Celebration of the 1903 Uprising)
• Independence Day: September 8, 1993

Nature

• Land use: forest (39%), agricultural land (26%), other (35%)
• Highest mountain: Titov (2,747 m above sea level)

Population

• Population density (2019): 82 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0%; birth rate 10 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (70%), 65- (14%)
• Average life expectancy (2019): men 74 years, women 78 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 6 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 2 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.757 (place 80 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 58%
• Most populous cities (2015): Skopje (500 400 residents), Kumanovo (73 100)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (11%), industry (27%), service (62%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 4,601 million
• Main export products: food, tobacco, textiles
• Main exporting countries: Germany, Bulgaria, Serbia
• Imports (2017): US $ 6,630 million
• Main import products: machines, cars, chemicals
• Main importing countries: Germany, United Kingdom, Greece
• Railway network (2017): 925 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Macedonia, officially known as North Macedonia, is a landlocked country located in Southeast Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with Kosovo to the northwest, Serbia to the north, Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west. The country has a strategic location at the crossroads of Central and Southern Europe, which has made it historically important as a center of trade, culture, and military activity.

Covering an area of 25,713 square kilometers (9,928 square miles), North Macedonia is one of the smaller countries in the region, with its territory marked by mountainous landscapes, valleys, and rivers. Its location and history have influenced its diverse culture and demographic makeup, with a variety of ethnicities and languages present within its borders.

Physical Features

North Macedonia is a land of contrasts, with its terrain ranging from mountains and hills to valleys and plains. The country’s geography is dominated by three major mountain ranges: the Shar Mountains, the Osogovo Mountains, and the Jablanica Mountains. These mountain ranges create dramatic landscapes and are a defining feature of the country’s physical identity. The Shar Mountains, in particular, are located along the western border with Albania and are home to diverse wildlife, forests, and numerous alpine lakes.

In contrast to the mountainous areas, North Macedonia also has fertile plains, such as the Vardar River Valley, which runs through the heart of the country. The Vardar River, the longest in the country, serves as the main watercourse and flows from north to south, providing essential irrigation for agriculture. The valley, which stretches along the river, is one of the most fertile and developed regions of the country. Other important rivers in North Macedonia include the Crna, the Treska, and the Bregalnica.

In addition to its mountains and rivers, the country is home to several lakes. Lake Ohrid, located on the border with Albania, is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, renowned for its biodiversity and historical significance. Lake Prespa, shared with Greece and Albania, is another notable body of water in the country, providing a picturesque setting for towns and villages along its shores.

Climate

North Macedonia has a Mediterranean-continental climate, which means the country experiences a mix of hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The climate is influenced by the country’s varied topography, with lowland areas tending to have more extreme temperatures compared to the higher altitudes of the mountains.

In the summer months, temperatures can reach 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F) in the plains, with a dry and sunny climate. The southern parts of the country, including the city of Bitola and the region surrounding Lake Prespa, are particularly warm and dry during the summer months, with very little rainfall. The higher mountain areas, such as the Shar Mountains, have cooler temperatures, even during the summer, and are popular for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Winter temperatures in the lowlands can drop below freezing, with snow covering the ground for several months, particularly in the mountainous regions. The capital city, Skopje, experiences cold winters, with temperatures typically ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), while the higher altitudes can see much colder temperatures and heavier snow.

The climate of North Macedonia is conducive to agriculture, with many of the country’s crops, such as tobacco, grapes, and various fruits, being suited to the warm, dry summers and the cooler winter months.

Natural Resources

North Macedonia is rich in natural resources, including fertile soil, minerals, and forests. The country has significant deposits of lead, zinc, copper, and other minerals, which have been historically important to its economy. Mining, particularly for these minerals, has been a key part of the country’s industrial sector for centuries. However, the mining industry has seen a decline in recent decades due to changing market conditions and environmental concerns.

The country’s forests, which cover about 40% of its land area, provide timber and other wood products, supporting the woodworking industry. In addition to timber, North Macedonia’s forests are home to a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the country’s biodiversity. Agriculture also remains a significant part of the economy, with the country’s fertile land supporting the cultivation of grains, fruits, vegetables, and tobacco.

Despite its resource wealth, the country faces challenges in managing these resources sustainably, particularly with respect to deforestation, water management, and the environmental impact of mining activities.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

North Macedonia has a population of approximately 2.1 million people. The population is ethnically diverse, with the majority being ethnic Macedonians, who make up around 65-70% of the population. The Macedonian people speak Macedonian, a South Slavic language, which is the official language of the country. Macedonian is closely related to Bulgarian and Serbian, and it uses the Cyrillic alphabet.

In addition to ethnic Macedonians, there are several other ethnic groups in the country. The largest minority is the Albanian community, which comprises around 25% of the population. Albanians are concentrated in the western regions of the country, particularly in the towns of Tetovo, Gostivar, and Struga, as well as in areas around Lake Ohrid. Albanians in North Macedonia speak Albanian, which is recognized as a co-official language in certain municipalities with large Albanian populations.

Other ethnic groups in North Macedonia include Turks, Roma, Serbs, and Bosniaks, with smaller communities of Vlachs and Croats. The presence of these diverse ethnic groups reflects the country’s complex history of migration, conquest, and cultural exchange, particularly during the Ottoman Empire period and the more recent Yugoslav era.

Language

The official language of North Macedonia is Macedonian, which is spoken by the majority of the population. It is a South Slavic language that belongs to the same group as Bulgarian and Serbian. Macedonian is written in the Cyrillic alphabet, and it is the primary language used in education, government, and media. The language is closely related to Bulgarian and Serbian, but it has developed distinct features and a rich literary tradition.

Albanian is also widely spoken, particularly in the western regions, where the Albanian community is concentrated. Albanian is an official language in municipalities with large Albanian populations, and it is used in schools, local government, and media in these areas. Serbian and other minority languages are spoken by smaller communities, but they do not have the same level of official recognition as Macedonian and Albanian.

Many people in North Macedonia speak multiple languages, particularly English, which is increasingly used in business and among the younger generation. The country’s position as a crossroads between different ethnic and cultural groups has fostered a multilingual society, with a high level of language proficiency among its people.

Religion

North Macedonia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, with about 60% of the population adhering to the Macedonian Orthodox Church. The Macedonian Orthodox Church plays an important role in the cultural and religious life of the country, and its festivals, such as Easter and Christmas, are widely celebrated. The church is an integral part of national identity, particularly for ethnic Macedonians.

Islam is the second-largest religion in North Macedonia, with around 33% of the population identifying as Muslim, mostly from the Albanian and Turkish communities. Islam was introduced to the region during the Ottoman Empire, and today, it continues to play a significant role in the cultural and religious life of the Albanian minority. The majority of Muslims in North Macedonia are Sunni, although there is a minority of Shia Muslims, particularly among the Roma community.

In addition to Orthodox Christianity and Islam, there are smaller religious minorities in North Macedonia, including Roman Catholics, Protestants, and adherents of other religions. The country has a long tradition of religious tolerance, and people of different faiths live together peacefully, although tensions can occasionally arise in the context of national identity and political issues.

Social Structure

North Macedonia’s social structure is traditionally based on family, ethnicity, and community. The extended family plays an important role in social life, with strong ties between relatives. In rural areas, traditional values and customs are still prevalent, and extended families often live in close proximity to one another. In urban areas, the nuclear family structure is more common, but family remains central to social life.

The country’s social system is characterized by a relatively high level of solidarity, particularly in rural communities. However, there are also challenges related to poverty, particularly in rural areas and among ethnic minorities. Unemployment rates in North Macedonia are high, and many people, especially young people, seek work abroad in countries like Germany, the United States, and neighboring countries.

Despite economic challenges, the country has a strong tradition of education, and literacy rates are high. The education system is public and free, and there are several universities, including the University of Skopje, which is the largest in the country. Education is seen as a way to improve social mobility, and many young people strive to attain higher education to secure better employment opportunities.

Economy

Key Industries

North Macedonia has a mixed economy, with industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and services playing key roles. The country’s economy has been transitioning from a primarily agricultural base to a more diversified economy with an emphasis on industry and services.

One of the most important sectors of North Macedonia’s economy is manufacturing, particularly in textiles, food processing, and chemicals. The country has a relatively strong industrial base, with factories producing machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. The automotive industry is also growing, with a number of foreign companies setting up manufacturing plants in North Macedonia.

Agriculture remains a significant part of the economy, particularly in the rural regions. The country produces a variety of crops, including tobacco, cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Livestock farming is also important, and North Macedonia is known for its production of dairy products, meat, and wool.

Tourism is a growing sector in North Macedonia, particularly in the areas surrounding Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites, including those in Skopje and Bitola, attract visitors from across the world.

Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture remains a central part of North Macedonia’s economy, providing employment to a significant portion of the population, especially in rural areas. The fertile plains of the Vardar River Valley and other agricultural regions are used for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, tobacco, and fruit, including grapes, apples, and cherries. North Macedonia is also known for its production of high-quality wines, particularly in the Tikveš region, which is one of the most important wine-producing areas in the country.

Livestock farming plays an important role in North Macedonia’s agriculture, with cattle, sheep, and goats being raised for meat, milk, and wool. The country has a tradition of dairy production, with many rural families owning livestock to provide milk and other dairy products. Despite the challenges of small-scale farming, agriculture remains an essential component of the country’s economy and culture.

Economic Challenges

North Macedonia faces several economic challenges, including high unemployment, poverty, and income inequality. Unemployment rates, particularly among young people, are high, and many citizens seek employment abroad. The country’s reliance on agriculture and low-tech manufacturing sectors limits its economic diversification, and the industrial base needs modernization to compete in the global market.

Despite its progress in reforms and EU integration, North Macedonia’s economy is vulnerable to external economic shocks, such as fluctuations in global commodity prices and changes in regional political dynamics. The country’s dependence on remittances from the large diaspora community and its reliance on trade with neighboring countries also contribute to economic risks.

Efforts to improve the economy have focused on increasing foreign investment, particularly in the manufacturing and tourism sectors, as well as improving infrastructure and education. The government has worked to promote the development of a modern economy and reduce the country’s dependence on agriculture.

Government

Political System

North Macedonia is a parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The country has a president, who serves as the head of state, and a prime minister, who is the head of government. The political system is based on democratic principles, with regular elections held for both the president and the parliament.

The parliament, known as the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia, is a unicameral legislature consisting of 120 members who are elected for a four-year term. The parliament is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the activities of the executive branch. The prime minister, who is appointed by the president, leads the executive branch and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country.

The political system in North Macedonia is characterized by coalition governments, as no single party has ever held a majority in the parliament. Political parties in North Macedonia are typically organized along ethnic lines, with parties representing both ethnic Macedonians and ethnic Albanians.

Legal System

North Macedonia’s legal system is based on civil law, influenced by both European and Yugoslav legal traditions. The judiciary is independent, with courts responsible for interpreting and applying the law. The highest court in the country is the Constitutional Court, which has the authority to review laws and ensure that they conform to the constitution.

The legal system is designed to protect individual rights and ensure justice in both criminal and civil matters. However, challenges such as corruption, inefficiency, and political influence on the judiciary remain a concern. The country has made efforts to improve its legal system through judicial reforms, particularly as part of its ongoing efforts to align with European Union standards.

Foreign Policy

North Macedonia’s foreign policy is focused on European integration, particularly its goal of joining the European Union (EU) and NATO. The country has made significant progress in its efforts to meet the criteria for EU membership and is a candidate country for EU accession. NATO membership was achieved in 2019, marking a key milestone in the country’s integration into the Western security structure.

The country has worked to improve its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Greece, with which it reached a historic agreement in 2018 to resolve the longstanding naming dispute. Under the Prespa Agreement, North Macedonia agreed to change its name from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to North Macedonia, ending a dispute that had lasted for nearly three decades.

North Macedonia is also active in regional cooperation through organizations such as the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP) and the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA). The country maintains diplomatic ties with a variety of countries around the world and plays an active role in regional security, peacekeeping, and economic development efforts.