Gender Gap Analysis on Regional and Local Development in North Macedonia

As North Macedonia advances in its European Union accession process, regional and local development policies are becoming increasingly important. Under Chapter 22 on Regional Policy and Coordination of Structural Instruments, the country must prepare to manage EU Cohesion Policy funds, one of the EU’s main tools for supporting economic growth, job creation, infrastructure, and quality of life. Gender equality is a core principle of this policy and must be reflected both in how investments are planned and who benefits from them. The Gender Gap Analysis on Regional and Local Development in North Macedonia was prepared to support national institutions, particularly the Sector Working Group on Regional and Local Development led by the Ministry of Local Self-Government. Supported by UN Women, the analysis reviews the country’s legal and policy framework in this area and compares it with EU requirements and standards on gender equality. Using desk research and fieldwork, the study examines whether national policies and structures adequately integrate gender equality in regional development planning, cross-border cooperation, and management of future EU funds. It also considers how gender equality is addressed in decision-making bodies, programme design, monitoring systems, and investment priorities. The publication identifies gaps between national frameworks and EU expectations and provides strategic recommendations to strengthen gender mainstreaming. By offering clear and practical guidance, the analysis aims to help institutions ensure that future regional investments benefit women and men equally and contribute to more inclusive and balanced development across the country.