Macedonia

Context at a glance

Although Macedonia was the only former Yugoslav republic to gain independence peacefully, its transition from a centrally planned economy into a market economy has been riddled with problems. The implications of the conflicts in the region and the growing fractures within Macedonian society led to an inter-ethnic crisis that ended in late 2001.

This lack of stability led to a substantial drop in national income and unemployment rose significantly. Macedonia’s unemployment rate is among the highest in Europe, reaching 36 per cent in 2004. The number of people living below the national poverty level has exceeded 25 per cent.

Families with an average income cannot afford to buy new homes so many live with their parents. The average age of buildings in Macedonia is about 30 years and, due to the poor maintenance, they are in need of immediate reconstruction and renovation.

Habitat for Humanity programme

Habitat work began in Macedonia thanks to a group of local people who were inspired by Habitat’s mission and ready to put their values, experience and time into action to help those in need.

The first project was launched in early spring 2005. In partnership with a local micro-finance institution HFH Macedonia has established a Home Improvement Fund that provides micro-loans for reconstruction and renovation, especially targeting low income families that were previously unable to improve their living conditions. The working poor who had been forgotten now have the opportunity for partnership with Habitat for Humanity, enabling them to have a decent and affordable place to live.

Micro-loans help families to improve homes in Macedonia

Back to list of countries