EU and North Macedonia
A partnership for reform, growth and a European future
The EU is a key partner to North Macedonia
The European Union is North Macedonia’s closest partner and largest supporter, working together with the country to strengthen its economy, institutions and opportunities for citizens.
Since 2007, the EU has provided over €1.6 billion in financial assistance, making it by far the country’s largest donor, investor and trading partner.
As a candidate country for EU membership, North Macedonia continues to advance on its reform path. The launch of accession negotiations in 2022 marked a key milestone in the country’s European perspective and reaffirmed its commitment to aligning with EU standards.
While EU integration is addressed across institutional platforms, this website brings together, in a clear and accessible way, how EU support translates into concrete results for citizens and communities. You can explore specific examples through our Stories, follow updates in News & Events, or discover ongoing initiatives in the EU Projects – EU for you section.
A Structured and Strategic Partnership
Cooperation between the EU and North Macedonia is grounded in the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA), in force since 2004. This agreement established a free trade area and provides the framework for political dialogue, economic cooperation and gradual alignment with EU legislation. Today, the EU is at the centre of North Macedonia’s economic relations: accounting for 77% of exports and 49% of imports (figures to be confirmed with EUDEL) representing around two-thirds of total foreign direct investment. Beyond economic ties, the partnership is built on close political dialogue and cooperation across key areas, including the rule of law, governance, economic development, environment and energy, as well as foreign and security policy. In 2024, the EU and North Macedonia further strengthened their cooperation through the signature of a Security and Defence Partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing evolving global challenges. North Macedonia also aligns fully with the EU’s foreign and security policy positions and actively contributes to EU missions and operations.
EU Support in Key Areas
EU support focuses on reforms and investments that help North Macedonia move closer to EU standards and improve everyday life for its citizens.
Through the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA), the EU has mobilised substantial financial and technical support:
- €1.6 billion invested since 2007
- €608 million allocated for the period 2014–2020
This support targets key areas such as:
- democracy and governance
- rule of law and anti-corruption
- economic development and support to small and medium-sized enterprises
- environment and climate transition
- transport and connectivity
Additional opportunities supported by the EU, including funding, training and mobility programmes, can be explored in the Opportunities section.
From Support to Real Impact
EU support translates into concrete results for citizens and communities across North Macedonia.
EU-funded initiatives contribute to:
modern and transparent public administration
- support for thousands of businesses and entrepreneurs
- large-scale infrastructure investments in transport, energy and environmental protection
- improved wastewater treatment and waste management systems
- access to EU programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe and other innovation initiatives
Many of these results are showcased through real-life examples in our [Stories] section, while a full overview of EU-funded initiatives is available in the [Projects] database.
Through the Western Balkans Investment Framework, the EU has supported an estimated €3.8 billion in investments, including close to €1 billion in flagship projects in recent years.
Growth and Real Opportunities
Since 2023, the EU has stepped up its support through the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, aimed at accelerating economic convergence and integration with the EU single market.
As part of this initiative:
- North Macedonia benefits from a €750 million Reform and Growth Facility
- The country joined the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) in 2025
- Investments focus on digital transformation, green transition, public administration reform and improving the business environment
Updates on key developments, initiatives and events related to these efforts are regularly published in the News & Events section.
Securities and Resilience
The EU also supports North Macedonia in addressing modern security challenges, including cyber threats, disinformation and foreign interference.
Through enhanced cooperation in crisis management and defence, the partnership contributes to stronger institutions, greater resilience and closer alignment with EU standards.
What This Means For Citizens
It also creates new opportunities for young people through initiatives such as the Europe Houses network, which provides spaces for learning, creativity and engagement across the country.
To learn more about available programmes and how to get involved, visit the Opportunities section or explore ongoing initiatives in EU Projects – EU for you.
Ultimately, EU support is about improving everyday life today, while building a stronger and more resilient future within the European family.