Homelessness in North Macedonia: family living under improvised roof in Veles; dozens sheltering in Skopje
A family in Veles lives without basic conditions and dozens in Skopje shelter in abandoned buildings, while authorities pledge measures that have not yet produced concrete housing.
Homelessness in North Macedonia remains an unresolved social problem. In Veles a family with children is living under an improvised roof without basic living conditions, while in Skopje dozens of people are seeking shelter in ruined and abandoned buildings.
When will promises become homes?
Local and national authorities frequently announce measures to address homelessness, but so far those announcements have not translated into widespread, lasting solutions. Social services and municipalities say they are preparing plans, yet families continue to sleep in precarious conditions.
The situation in Veles highlights the human cost: a household with children is exposed to cold, inadequate sanitation and an uncertain future. In Skopje, abandoned structures have become temporary refuges for dozens who have nowhere else to go, creating public-health and safety concerns as well as humanitarian ones.
Advocates and neighbours call for a coordinated strategy that combines emergency shelter, access to social services, and affordable housing programs. Experts argue that short-term aid must be paired with investments in prevention — such as rent support, mediation with landlords and targeted poverty-reduction measures.
Authorities face the practical task of mapping needs, ensuring inter-agency coordination and setting concrete timelines. Without clear deadlines and transparent monitoring, promises risk remaining symbolic rather than delivering dignified housing for those who need it most.
Until systematic policies are enacted and funded, improvised roofs and ruined buildings will continue to hide the scale of homelessness in North Macedonia.
Photo: press material from the event
