Project

Water Security in Macedonia

Water supply for agriculture and population in Southeast Macedonia is under pressure. On behalf of the World Bank, we investigated measures for the Macedonian Government to secure a reliable bulk water supply.

As in many countries in the Mediterranean region, drought periods in summer are expected to become more frequent in Macedonia with climate change. Water resources in Southeast Macedonia are already scarce today. The agricultural soils are fertile, but often require irrigation. For many villages and cities, drinking water supply is supplemented from artificial reservoirs.

On behalf of the World Bank, we analysed four selected regions in Southeast Macedonia to determine expected water stress levels till the year 2050 and to identify ways how a reliable bulk water supply for agriculture and population can be secured. Based on our analysis, we proposed regulatory, organizational and structural measures. We also proposed possible financing schemes for these measures.

Our study serves the Macedonian Government to define priority investment measures for irrigation and drinking water supply. The study also helps Macedonia comply with the EU Water Framework Directive and is thus a further step on the country’s path towards EU membership.

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