Evaluating UNICEF interventions in support of the Social Protection Reform in North Macedonia

KonTerra successfully completed an evaluation of UNICEF Interventions supporting the Social Protection Reform in North Macedonia between 2016 and 2020. The evaluation assessed the portfolio of social protection interventions, and identified bottlenecks and potential mitigation measures, to inform recommendations.

UNICEF’s social protection program was found to have effectively addressed unmet needs among vulnerable groups and supported national reform initiatives through multi-dimensional approaches such as advocacy, policy support, and capacity strengthening. While the program successfully influenced policy and service provision in North Macedonia, sustaining positive outcomes amidst political volatility and fiscal constraints remains a challenge, exacerbated by overburdened child social workers and worsening socio-economic conditions.

The evaluation team recommended that support for evidence-based decision-making and oversight to reform social protection be ensured, focusing on reducing indiscriminate benefits and improving equality within the child benefit system.

Zehra Kacapor-Dzihic led the evaluation team composed of Maja Gerovska Mitev, Viktor Stojkoski, and Erisa Pereira. It was managed by Kelechi Udoh and Erisa Pereira and quality assured by Sophie Dunn. For more details, the evaluation report is available online via this link.