UNOPS supported North Macedonia’s EU accession process by developing the Reform Agenda under the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans. To achieve the latter’s goals, special emphasis with respect to investment areas has been placed on sectors functioning as key multipliers for social and economic development, such as connectivity, including transport, energy, green and digital transitions, education and skills development.

A team of UNOPS experts took a leading role in developing part of North Macedonia’s Reform Agenda outlining key reforms in (1) education, energy and economy, (2) rule of law, anti-corruption, judicial reform and electoral processes, (3) agriculture, rural development and regional cohesion (4) skills development and employment opportunities and (5) public financial management and public administration reform to support EU accession. These reforms are critical for meeting EU standards and unlocking access to EU funding, bringing significant social and economic benefits for the people of North Macedonia.

The work involved close collaboration with national stakeholders to ensure that the Reform Agenda addressed the country’s most pressing needs in line with European integration priorities. UNOPS advisors identified priority reforms and mapped out actionable steps to set the stage for more efficient and transparent government operations. The K4R programme experts conducted a review of key documents, EU regulations, the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans and OECD and IMF reports, ensuring that reforms were grounded in international best practices. They consolidated inputs, which provided actionable insights, helping North Macedonia design reforms.

This effort culminated in drafting part of the Reform Agenda, ensuring North Macedonia’s alignment with broader EU and regional integration goals and national reforms, ultimately boosting preparedness for deeper EU integration and economic alignment. The work also included evaluating EC reports, conducting impact analyses and identifying inter-institutional gaps laying the groundwork for transformative societal changes.

The Reform Agenda for North Macedonia is a foundational step towards cross-sectoral transformative reforms. It strengthens the country’s EU accession process by addressing critical gaps and aligning institutional capacities with EU standards.

For citizens, the impact will be clear. The envisioned reforms promote economic and social development across the policy spectrum. They will attract investment, empower the workforce and create job opportunities, improve infrastructure particularly in rural areas, provide greater financial security, leading to higher living standards and long-term economic growth making North Macedonia more competitive in regional and global markets, but also reducing inequalities and promoting cohesion across the country. Investments in rule of law and anti-corruption measures will support democratic values, while contributing to a more equitable society fostering civic engagement.

Overall, improved governance will enhance transparency, reduce corruption and deliver more reliable public services, improving daily life and restoring trust in institutions. At a national level, the reforms lay the groundwork for sustainable development, ensuring that North Macedonia is equipped to meet modern challenges and seize the opportunities for a prosperous future for the country and its population.

“My experience with UNOPS has been profoundly enriching, offering a unique blend of professional growth and meaningful impact. Working with a dedicated team towards sustainable development has reinforced my commitment to creating positive change for my country.” – Senior Advisor on EU negotiations – UNOPS K4R Programme

The assignment supports SDGs across sectors and the following 3 more particular:

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by enhancing North Macedonia’s Reform Agenda implementation, driving investment, job creation, economic stability and competitiveness.

It supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by improving access to EU structural funds for infrastructure and regional development through the Reform Agenda, promoting resilience and sustainable growth and industrialization.

Additionally, it contributes to SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by strengthening Government capacity for reform implementation, advancing the rule of law and building public trust for institutions through greater transparency, reduced corruption and civic engagement that strengthen accountability and institutional effectiveness.