North Macedonia MICS 2027 Data Gap Assessment

Highlights

This analytical report presents the results of the Data Gap Assessment conducted to inform the design of the North Macedonia Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) to be implemented in 2027 (MICS 2027). The assessment reviews potential MICS modules against national policy priorities, existing data availability, equity-related disaggregation gaps, and implementation effort. It provides an evidence-based foundation for selecting the survey modules that can generate the most relevant and useful data for children, women and vulnerable groups in North Macedonia.

The report highlights important gaps in timely and disaggregated data, particularly for children with disabilities, Roma communities, households in the poorest quintiles, women at risk of violence, adolescents and youth, and other groups at risk of being left behind. Following stakeholder validation, the proposed MICS 2027 package prioritizes comprehensive equity monitoring, including modules on education, health, child protection, gender-based violence, mental health, migration, water quality and social inclusion. The assessment supports transparent decision-making by the State Statistical Office, UNICEF and national partners, helping ensure that MICS 2027 produces the right data for policy, planning, accountability and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.