The April 2021 population and housing census will gather the data needed to create strategies and policies for the sustainable and predictable development of the country, according to the Government in a press release.
The census isn’t and must not be political, but an independent statistical survey to be organized according to United Nations standards and Eurostat regulations, the release says.
Pointing out that a national headcount hasn’t happened in almost 20 years, the Government highlights that the April 2021 census will be conducted using state-of-the-art technology and at a much lower cost than the previous, unsuccessful attempt for a census.
“The census is mandatory and legally binding for all individuals and households,” the release notes.
“The European Commission’s Report on North Macedonia’s progress pointed to the census as a major obligation our country has to fulfill. The chapter on statistics is part of the first clusters of chapters in the EU negotiations.”
According to the Government, citizens participating in the census will give their personal contribution toward a better future for everyone. “This is our duty, our obligation to the state, to ourselves, and to our children.”
Through their responsible participation, the Government continues, citizens will contribute to updating the figures so politicians can provide “facts instead of assumptions, so we can collect data important to municipalities, the business community, the civil sector, and every citizen in our country.”
The updated statistics will help municipalities plan their development, evaluate their investment requirements, and better distribute their budgets and EU funding, the release says.
The census methodology and topics are in line with EU legislation and approved by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s Conference of European Statisticians.
The State Statistical Office is ready and has the professional capacities required to successfully conduct a census according to UN and Eurostat standards, the Government reiterates.
In addition, the April 2021 census will offer the opportunity for citizens abroad to be counted for the first time. This will give policymakers an insight into migration movements so they can be prevented through specific strategies and policies.
According to the Government, the census will also help the country and its citizens remain focused on their common European future.
