North Macedonia: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for North Macedonia 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank North Macedonia: 84
  • Happiness Score North Macedonia:5.369

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of North Macedonia. MK.

    North Macedonia is a country located in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. Its political structure is a parliamentary republic, with a president serving as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government.

  • North Macedonia is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Ohrid Lake and its surrounding area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, with significant growth in recent years.
  • North Macedonia gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and was known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia until 2019, when it officially changed its name to North Macedonia as part of a historic agreement with Greece.
  • North Macedonia – A Comprehensive Overview

    Brief History

    Early History: The region of North Macedonia has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with the earliest known settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. The Paionians and Dardanians were among the ancient tribes that lived in the area.

    Kingdoms and Empires: The territory of modern-day North Macedonia was part of the ancient kingdom of Macedon, which reached its peak under Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. Later, the region fell under the control of the Roman Empire and then the Byzantine Empire.

    Colonial Period: North Macedonia was never formally colonized, but it was part of the Ottoman Empire from the 14th to the early 20th century.

    Independence and Modern Era: After the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, the Republic of Macedonia declared independence in 1991. The country faced challenges, including a conflict with Greece over its name, which was resolved in 2019 when it was officially renamed North Macedonia.

    Current Political Situation: North Macedonia is a parliamentary republic, with a president as head of state and a prime minister as head of government. The current president is Stevo Pendarovski, and the prime minister is Dimitar Kovačevski. The country has been working towards European Union and NATO membership.

    International Relations: North Macedonia has friendly relations with its neighbors and is a member of the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and other international organizations. The country joined NATO in 2020 and is a candidate for EU membership.

    Human Development and Economy: North Macedonia has a transitional economy, with the service sector being the largest contributor to its GDP. Key industries include agriculture, textiles, and automotive components. The country has made progress in human development but still faces challenges, such as high unemployment rates.

    Cultural Highlights: North Macedonia has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its history and geographic location. The country has a mix of Orthodox Christian, Muslim, and other religious traditions. Its cuisine is diverse, with influences from Greek, Turkish, and Balkan cuisines.

    Conclusion: North Macedonia has faced challenges since its independence, but it has made strides towards political stability and economic development. Key opportunities include further integration with European institutions and leveraging its strategic location for trade and investment. Challenges include addressing high unemployment, corruption, and inter-ethnic tensions.

    Travel Tips for North Macedonia

    Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit North Macedonia is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

    Cultural Etiquette: Be respectful when visiting religious sites and dress modestly. Greet people with a handshake and make eye contact. Punctuality is generally expected.

    Safety Precautions: North Macedonia is generally a safe country for tourists, but it’s advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of petty theft.

    Must-See Landmarks: Visit the capital Skopje to see the Old Bazaar, the Kale Fortress, and the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. Other notable attractions include Lake Ohrid, Matka Canyon, and the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis.

    Culinary Experiences: Try traditional Macedonian dishes such as tavče gravče (baked beans), ajvar (roasted red pepper spread), and mastika (a liquor flavored with resin). Local wines and rakija (fruit brandy) are also popular.

    Living in North Macedonia

    Cost of Living: North Macedonia has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries, especially for housing and utilities.

    Housing: Rental prices are affordable, especially outside the capital, Skopje. Purchasing property is also an option, but foreigners may face some restrictions.

    Healthcare: North Macedonia has a public healthcare system that provides basic coverage, but many residents opt for private insurance for better quality care.

Main facts

1. Location

North Macedonia is a landlocked country located in the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe. It is bordered by Kosovo to the northwest, Serbia to the north, Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west. The country is situated along the Vardar River, which runs from northwest to southeast through the capital city of Skopje.

2. Map References

North Macedonia is located in the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe.

3. Area – Comparative

North Macedonia has an area of approximately 25,713 square kilometers, making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of Vermont and slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Massachusetts.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

North Macedonia has a total land boundary length of 838 kilometers. The countries bordering North Macedonia are:

5. Coastline

North Macedonia is a landlocked country and has no coastline.

6. Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, North Macedonia has no maritime claims.

7. Climate

North Macedonia has a predominantly warm continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The climate varies across the country, with Mediterranean influences in the southern regions and continental influences in the northern regions.

8. Terrain

North Macedonia is characterized by a diverse terrain, with high mountains, deep valleys, and rolling hills. The country is dominated by the Shar Planina and Bistra mountain ranges, which run along the northern and western borders. The central region is dominated by the Vardar River valley, surrounded by hills and plateaus.

9. Elevation Extremes

The highest point in North Macedonia is Mount Golem Korab, located on the border with Albania, at an elevation of 2,764 meters (9,068 feet). The lowest point is the Vardar River, which flows into Greece at an elevation of 50 meters (164 feet) above sea level.

10. Natural Resources

The major natural resources found in North Macedonia include:

  • Low-grade iron ore
  • Copper
  • Lead
  • Zinc
  • Chromite
  • Manganese
  • Nickel
  • Tungsten
  • Precious metals

11. Major Bodies of Water

The major water bodies in North Macedonia include:

12. Natural Hazards

The primary natural hazards affecting North Macedonia include:

  • Earthquakes
  • Landslides
  • Floods
  • Wildfires

13. Geography – Notes

North Macedonia is a landlocked country with a diverse geography, including high mountains, deep valleys, and rolling hills. The country has a rich history and cultural heritage, with influences from various civilizations that have passed through the Balkan region over the centuries. North Macedonia’s geographic location has played a significant role in shaping its history, culture, and economic development.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): . This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: . CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 50%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  41.60863521.745275.
  • Capital: The capital of North Macedonia is  Skopje
  • Major Cities:
    CityPopulation
    Skopje500,000
    Bitola95,385
    Kumanovo73,207
    Prilep66,246
  • Population: 1,836,713
  • Area(Km2): 25713
  • Population Density( P/Km²):83. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:389
  • Official Language(s):North Macedonia is Macedonian (66.5%) and Albanian (25.1%).
  • Currency: MKD

Main Economic Indicators

North Macedonia’s economy is small and open, with a transition from a planned to an open market economy over the past three decades. The GDP per capita is around $6,200, and the country faces challenges such as high unemployment, limited foreign direct investment, and corruption. Notable economic policies include efforts to attract foreign investment, liberalize trade, and advance EU integration.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 3.2% (Source: State Statistical Office of North Macedonia)
2020: 1.2% (Source: State Statistical Office of North Macedonia)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: BB+ (Stable)
Moody’s: Ba1 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: BB- (Stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 8.4%
Industry: 23.8%
Services: 67.8%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: grapes, tobacco, fruits, vegetables, wheat
Industrial Products: food products, beverages, textiles, chemicals, iron, steel, machinery

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 941,000 (2021 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 152nd globally (2020 est.)

Current Account Balance

2021: -$522 million (3.5% of GDP)
2020: -$257 million (1.7% of GDP)
Comparative Ranking: 124th globally (2021 est.)

Exports and Imports

Exports: $7.08 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Germany, Serbia, Bulgaria, Belgium, Greece
Main Commodities: machinery, iron and steel, clothing, chemicals, food and beverages

Imports: $10.7 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Germany, United Kingdom, Greece, Serbia, Italy
Main Commodities: machinery, chemicals, fuels, food products

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $4.24 billion (2021 est.)
Gold Reserves: 9.83 tons (2021 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):$10,220,781,069. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): . It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): . This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. . It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): . It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

National Identity

Nationality: Macedonian(s) (noun), Macedonian (adjective)

Ethnic Groups

  • Macedonian 64.2%
  • Albanian 25.6%
  • Turkish 3.9%
  • Roma 2.7%
  • Serbian 1.8%
  • Other 1.8%

Religions

  • Orthodox Christian 64.8%
  • Muslim 33.3%
  • Other/Unspecified 1.9%

Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 16.09%
  • 15-64 years: 70.37%
  • 65 years and over: 13.54%

Dependency Ratios

Total Dependency Ratio: 42.7

Youth Dependency Ratio: 22.9

Elderly Dependency Ratio: 19.8

Median Age

Total: 38.8 years

Male: 37.8 years

Female: 39.9 years

Lifestyle Indicators

  • Obesity Rate: 22.4% of the adult population
  • Alcohol Consumption: 8.6 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
  • Tobacco Use: 32.5% of adults smoke tobacco

Note:

The data presented in this profile is based on the latest available information and may be subject to change over time.

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: . Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 97.13%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:16. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 1.6. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 75.6%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: . Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):35.60%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Armed Forces of North Macedonia consist of:

  • Army (including infantry, artillery, and armor branches)
  • Air Brigade (responsible for air defense and transport)
  • Special Operations Regiment (elite tactical unit)

The Ministry of Interior controls the national police and border security forces, responsible for internal security.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last 5 years:

  • 2022: 1.32%
  • 2021: 1.35%
  • 2020: 1.28%
  • 2019: 1.24%
  • 2018: 1.17%

North Macedonia’s military spending ranks 95th globally.

Personnel Strengths

Total active-duty military personnel: 8,000

  • Army: 7,000
  • Air Brigade: 1,000

The national police force has an additional 9,000 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

North Macedonia’s military equipment includes:

  • Main battle tanks (e.g., T-72)
  • Armored personnel carriers
  • Towed and self-propelled artillery
  • Utility and transport helicopters
  • Fighter jets (e.g., Su-25 ground attack aircraft)

Future acquisitions include plans to upgrade its aging tank and aircraft fleets.

Military Service Age and Obligation

North Macedonia has a voluntary military service system. Enlistment is open to men and women aged 18-27.

Military Deployments

North Macedonia contributes troops to the following international missions:

Strategic Military Notes

North Macedonia’s defense strategy focuses on contributing to regional stability and pursuing NATO integration. Its military plays a role in international peacekeeping efforts and cooperates closely with NATO allies.

As a member of the NATO Partnership for Peace program, North Macedonia aims to enhance its interoperability with NATO forces and ensure its defense capabilities align with alliance standards.

  • Armed Forces Size: 8000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 2.8
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): . This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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