Like in many countries in the Western Balkans, young people in North Macedonia continue to face significant challenges related to employment. In general, the job market remains too limited to offer sufficient opportunities for youth, starting with the capital, Skopje, and extending to smaller cities where economic activity is considerably lower. As Skopje continues to grow, many young people struggle to secure enough income to lead even a semi-independent life away from their parents. This challenge affects both students and those seeking entry-level employment.

On the one hand, it is difficult to find a job as a university student because many companies and private businesses do not offer part-time positions. For much of the private sector, a part-time job does not mean what it should legally mean – around 20 hours per week – with adequate time for studies and personal life. Those who offer some form of part-time employment are mostly call centres, but even in those cases students often have to sacrifice university classes due to scheduling conflicts and are expected to work weekends. Other sectors offering entry-level positions, such as hospitality and retail, rarely provide flexible opportunities that accommodate students’ educational commitments.

However, what many young people consider an even greater problem is the persistence of corruption and nepotism. Those seeking stable employment or trying to build a career after graduation often believe that personal connections play a major role in recruitment processes. This perception is particularly strong regarding public-sector employment. Political affiliations or connections are also frequently viewed as factors that can improve employment prospects. As a result, many young people feel excluded from decision-making processes that affect their lives, including issues related to education, human rights and the environment.

One positive development in recent years has been the growing role of civil society organisations. In North Macedonia, as in other countries across the region, young people can participate actively in NGOs and community initiatives. Much of this work is supported through international funding, including programmes financed by the European Union. While such projects provide valuable opportunities for learning, networking and civic engagement, many young people are unable to rely solely on volunteering because of financial constraints. As a result, volunteer work is often undervalued despite its potential benefits for personal and professional development.

At the same time, digital and remote work opportunities have become increasingly important. Online teaching, programming, graphic design, digital marketing, content creation and freelance services allow young people to access international markets and generate income beyond their local economies. Social media platforms have also enabled some young people to develop online businesses, creative projects and personal brands.

Nonetheless, all of these examples point to the same conclusion: young people want to work, contribute and become financially independent. Many turn to online opportunities or consider moving abroad because of the lack of opportunities at home. Yet for most young people, these alternatives do not replace the possibility of building a meaningful career in their own profession and in their own country.