Skopje, 16 June 2026 (MIA) – Children in North Macedonia are increasingly exposed to overlapping climate hazards, with heatwaves, drought and air pollution affecting the vast majority, according to a new global UNICEF report released Tuesday.

"The Children’s Climate Risk Report 2026 finds that in North Macedonia climate-related threats are widespread and already impacting children’s health, development and well-being. Around three quarters of children experience drought (73 per cent), nearly nine in ten children are exposed to heatwaves (87 per cent), and almost all children (99. 9 per cent) are exposed to harmful air pollution," UNICEF's Skopje office said in a press release. 

“Children in North Macedonia are growing up in a changing climate where extreme heat, drought and polluted air are unfortunately part of daily life. While the country has introduced some important measures to protect children, climate pressures are increasing and require urgent action to reduce the harmful impact on children’s health, education and wellbeing.” said Lesley Miller, UNICEF Representative.

The report highlights that most children in North Macedonia are exposed to more than one climate hazard at the same time, increasing the risk of compounded impacts on their health, learning and overall development. 

Despite efforts to reduce children’s vulnerability, gaps remain, particularly in social protection coverage, putting children in the most disadvantaged families at greater risk from climate shocks.

"UNICEF is calling for urgent, child-focused climate action in North Macedonia, recognising that children are disproportionately affected by climate risks and must be prioritized in climate policies. Ongoing actions are needed to further reduce emissions and tackle air pollution, strengthen the resilience of health, education and social protection systems to withstand climate shocks, and ensure that children and adolescents are equipped and empowered to participate in climate solutions and decision-making processes that affect their future," said the press release. 

“Protecting children from climate risks is both an urgent necessity and an opportunity. By investing in resilient services today, North Macedonia can safeguard children’s rights and build a more sustainable future for all,” Miller said.

MIA file photo