North Macedonia has officially resolved all known cases of statelessness stemming from the dissolution of Yugoslavia, marking a significant human rights achievement. This landmark decision grants citizenship to the final 317 individuals who lived in legal limbo for decades, ensuring they now possess full rights and protections. The country is the first in the region to reach this milestone, celebrated by international bodies and national leaders alike.
Key Takeaways
- North Macedonia becomes the first country in the region to end statelessness caused by Yugoslavia’s collapse.
- The final 317 individuals have been granted citizenship, ending decades of legal uncertainty.
- This achievement is the result of a 34-year effort involving multiple government bodies and international support.
- Since 2001, nearly 20,000 stateless individuals have acquired citizenship in North Macedonia.
- The country is implementing measures to prevent future statelessness, including mandatory birth registration.
A Decades-Long Journey Towards Belonging
The resolution of statelessness in North Macedonia is the culmination of a 34-year process. This extensive effort involved the Parliament’s Commission for Political System and Relations between Communities, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and its various sectors, alongside the Registry Office. Support from UNHCR, other UN agencies, the OSCE, the Council of Europe, and the European Union Delegation was crucial in advancing this progress. Since 2001, nearly 20,000 stateless individuals have been granted citizenship.
Personal Stories of Transformation
The impact of statelessness is deeply personal, as illustrated by the story of Amida Demiri. For 55 years, Amida lived without a nationality, unable to travel, access healthcare fully, or even hold an ID card. Her life was marked by a feeling of invisibility and imprisonment. The recent amendments to the Law on Citizenship in 2021 finally paved the way for her to gain citizenship, a moment she describes as being "born again." Her story, and that of the last 317 individuals, highlights the profound dignity and security that comes with having a nationality.
A Commitment to Prevention and Future Inclusion
Beyond resolving past cases, North Macedonia is strengthening its legal framework to prevent future statelessness. Article 4a of the Law on Civil Registry has been reinforced to ensure every child is registered at birth, irrespective of their parents’ legal status. In 2024 alone, authorities identified 675 children at risk of statelessness due to non-registration, and proactive collaboration has already resolved 358 of these cases. While this victory is celebrated, international partners like the OSCE Mission to Skopje emphasize the ongoing need to address statelessness affecting other groups, particularly within the Roma community.
A Global Example
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi commended North Macedonia’s achievement as one of the strongest efforts in Europe and worldwide. The country’s success serves as a global example of how strong political will, humanitarian commitment, and international cooperation can eradicate statelessness, offering hope and a model for other nations facing similar challenges.
Sources
- North Macedonia ends statelessness caused by Yugoslavia’s dissolution, UNHCR – The UN Refugee Agency.
- From statelessness to belonging: Amida’s story and North Macedonia’s landmark victory, UNHCR – The UN Refugee Agency.
