North Macedonia has made significant strides in eliminating statelessness and is considered a leader in the Global Alliance for Resolving Statelessness. Deputy President Arben Fetai met with UNHCR representative Gabriel Gualano de Godoy to discuss these advancements. The country has resolved almost all cases of stateless persons stemming from the former Yugoslavia’s dissolution, with only two cases remaining.

Additionally, 153 other cases of stateless persons have been identified, primarily due to unregistered births. The majority of these cases (90%) involve members of the Roma community, with smaller percentages affecting Albanians (7%), Macedonians (1%), and other ethnic groups (2%).

According to the meeting, resolving statelessness is more than just a statistical issue; it is a humanitarian act that positively impacts individuals’ lives. Amendments to the Law on Citizenship have significantly improved the lives of many citizens, restoring dignity that had been absent for over three decades.

Deputy Prime Minister Fetai reaffirmed the government’s dedication to creating an inclusive society where all citizens can live with dignity and contribute to the nation’s future. He emphasized the transformative impact of the Law on Citizenship and the ongoing commitment to addressing statelessness.