With global USAID’s withdrawal in 2025, donors such as the EU, Switzerland, and Norway have become increasingly important in North Macedonia, though concerns remain about gaps in funding. Over 25 years, USAID funded projects that combined financial support with local contributions, rebuilding schools and supporting vocational training, creating lasting community engagement and capacity-building impacts across the country. USAID’s exit affected around 100 countries, including North Macedonia, where pledges worth 37 million USD never materialized, impacting CSOs significantly. According to the BCSDN member MCIC, the loss of USAID funding has significantly affected civil society sustainability, increasing reliance on remaining donors such as the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), particularly in areas like anti-corruption, governance, and institutional reform. Projects like Helvetas’ dual vocational education program have seen increased demand, highlighting the continued need for foreign aid to support business, education, and training. While foreign influence is often cited, local challenges such as corruption and low trust in institutions remain pressing. Read more here.
Source: SWI
