North Macedonia is a global champion in ending statelessness. The country introduces measures to prevent future cases.
The OSCE Mission to Skopje, jointly with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Health promoted a new Protocol on Procedures for Statelessness. The Protocol sets clear steps for institutions to work together to prevent new cases, because not having a legal identity means not being able to see a doctor, go to school, or access basic services.
The event brought together representatives from key institutions, civil society organizations, and professionals who work directly with people at risk of statelessness. It also recognized the efforts of frontline staff who helped resolve real-life cases and improve co-ordination between institutions.
"This is about real people and real lives. This Protocol helps ensure that every child born is registered, every person is recognized, and everyone can access their basic rights.", said the Head of the OSCE Mission in to Skopje, Ambassador Kilian Wahl.
The initiative sustains recent progress. Already by mid-2025, North Macedonia had resolved all known cases linked to the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, granting citizenship to 317 people. However, challenges remain, especially for children born to parents without regulated legal status.
A recent pilot effort showed how co-operation can make a difference. In one case, institutions worked together to ensure that both a mother and her newborn received personal documents and access to healthcare, quickly and effectively. The new Protocol aims to make such solutions standard practice.
The OSCE Mission continues to support national authorities and partners in preventing and reducing statelessness, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their fundamental rights and that no one is left behind.
