In early 2021, the Government of North Macedonia embarked on a journey to outline the nation's development path for the next two decades through the creation of a National Development Strategy (NDS). What followed was a testament to collaborative excellence, as diverse stakeholders came together to shape a shared vision for progress. This blog post delves into the key factors that drove the success of this endeavor and outlines the next steps towards realizing the NDS objectives.

The groundwork for the NDS began with the adoption of the Methodology, based on the Doughnut Model. This approach identifies risks and potentials over time, emphasizing sustainable growth, long-term vision, systems thinking, and flexibility.

At the heart of the NDS was the idea of including everyone and hearing all voices. More than 14,000 citizens joined in, taking part in over 75 events like dream labs, expert debates, and roundtable discussions. Notably, a gender perspective and aspects of social inclusion were actively integrated into the process, with over 50% of participants being women, 30 % youth and over 20% representing marginalized and vulnerable groups. We also worked closely with government officials, MPs, civil society, academics, and businesses, ensuring comprehensive engagement.

The MPs played a crucial role throughout the preparation process, actively participating in various workshops, roundtables, and events. Their engagement culminated in all 62 of them being present at the Assembly meeting to vote on the NDS Law, demonstrating their collective understanding of the importance of working together for the country's future, despite differing views.

Bringing so many different people together wasn't easy, but we found smart ways to do it. We organized visionary workshops, known as dream labs, across all 8 planning regions, bringing us closer to the people. Additionally we organized many expert debates, round tables  where everyone could share their thoughts. 

The compilation of the NDS, incorporating inputs from all stakeholders, was led by a team of 6 international and over 30 national experts in close coordination with MASA. This demanding process was crucial for creating a comprehensive and well-rounded National Development Strategy. Youth organizations also played a significant role, providing valuable insights, recommendations, and inputs on the NDS's vision, goals, and priorities. The development process was further enhanced through the application of the theory of change, ensuring effective adaptation and evolution of the strategy over time.

To ensure sustainability and longevity, we facilitated the establishment of the NDS operational structure for effective implementation. The National Council for Development oversees strategy preparation and offers opinions on planning and financing. It includes stakeholders from government, Assembly, municipalities, academia, civil society, business sector and youth. The Council is supported by the Working Committee, organized into four subgroups: State Administration, Civil Society, Business Community, and Public Institutions. The Executive Board facilitates collaboration with the international community.

We made sure everyone knew about the NDS too. Through NDS digital platform, videos, TV shows, and news coverage, we made the strategy part of everyday conversations. Digital platform alone had over 40,000 visits! This helped people understand what we were doing and encouraged them to get involved.

As North Macedonia moves forward, the next steps include establishing robust monitoring and evaluation systems, joint implementation of the NDS through the NDS operational structure, strategic international collaborations, continued mentorship programs, sustained public engagement, and an adaptive governance approach. The true realization of the NDS objectives depends on the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives lead to positive change.