Macedonia

The political-economic reforms enacted by the Government have determined visible social changes that – even though initially supported – were experienced by many people as a heavy burden: a decline in welfare and deterioration in the quality of their lives.

The first years of independence were marked by a relative political stability that favoured the start of the economic transition of the state. Regional and - later - internal conflict, however, have impaired the economic situation.

The short political history of this country has seen the alternation of the two major political coalitions in the various electoral events. The recent elections - held in September 2002 - marked the return to power of the social-democrats who took up the task of leading the difficult peace-building process.

Macedonia is the most southern of the former Yugoslav republics. Having gained independence in 1991 - at the end of a peaceful secession process - the country covers only partially what constituted the ancient kingdom of Macedonia.