North Macedonia
2024 | 2022 | |
---|---|---|
Ranking | 98 / 98 | - |
Original Score * As some Indicators can be skipped where data is unavailable, the maximum overall and Domain scores are not identical for each country. Country rankings are generated from ratios of the maximum scores and the achieved scores. | 26 / 388 | - |
Sep 2024
The Indicators have been classified by the stage of the influence process at which they occur. Some Indicators correspond to exposure to PRC influence, e.g. the presence of Confucius Institutes. Others test for pressure – such as visa denials to academics or journalists. Finally, some Indicators capture the effect of PRC influence, such as national policy changes in favor of PRC interests.
The individual Layer scores for each country are tallied and displayed via rankings.
Exposure * Exposure assesses the conditions that make the target country vulnerable to PRC‘s influence, e.g. in terms of economic dependence, or the receiving of some form of benefit. | 2024 | 2022 |
---|---|---|
Ranking | 95 / 98 | - |
Level of Score | 9 % | - |
Pressure * Pressure measures the actions that the PRC directly or indirectly exerts over the target country in order to change the behavior of people in the target country, e.g. in terms of threatening economic punishment to provoke/prevent a political decision. | 2024 | 2022 |
---|---|---|
Ranking | 68 / 98 | - |
Level of Score | 0 % | - |
Alignment * Alignment evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual policy changes and impacts on the target country. | 2024 | 2022 |
---|---|---|
Ranking | 98 / 98 | - |
Level of Score | 3 % | - |
In 2023, North Macedonia had a GDP per capita of US$8,146 and a total estimated population of 1.84 million people. According to the last official census in 2021, the Chinese population totalled 8 people, or 0.00043% of the total population.
North Macedonia established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in 1993. North Macedonia was ranked 36th in Reporters Without Borders 2024 World Press Freedom Index, and rated Partly Free in Freedom House‘s 2024 Global Freedom Index, with a score of 67/100.
Key Takeaways
- The results indicate that academia remains a key component of PRC influence in North Macedonia. North Macedonia’s higher education institutions largely cooperate with their counterparts from China through bilateral projects, and the number of these projects in some areas surpasses that with Western countries. This is also in sharp contrast to other economic and political parameters in which China is far less present.
- Another key component of Chinese strategic messaging in North Macedonia is through Chinese culture. This allows China to paint an idealized picture of itself as a culturally rich, successful and benevolent entity among citizens who are otherwise less informed about Chinese current events and life.
- The penetration of China in the Technology and Economy Domains has been practically stalled in recent years. In 2023, there was a noticeable lack of new key agreements for supply of sensitive equipment and technologies owing to the fact that North Macedonia has enforced the bulk of Western restrictions.
Percentage scores do not suggest some degree out of a “completely influenced” level of 100%. The percentages express the country‘s score out of the total achievable amount based on the Indicators for each Domain.
Media
The Media Domain evaluates how PRC entities influence public debate and media coverage about the PRC in the Index country.
In my country, there are media organizations that belong to the World Chinese Media (世界华文媒体) network.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no media organisation from the country listed as belonging to ther WCM network.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists or media organizations which are members of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Alliance/Union, the Belt and Road News Alliance, or other Belt and Road media networks that connected to PRC (e.g. Belt and Road Media Community, Belt and Road Journalists Network, Belt and Road News Network, or B&R TV Networks).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
After checking the relevant websites, we also additionally checked with an expert from the Macedonian Insitute for Media, MIM, who confirmed that they have not encountered this phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, journalists, media organizations, or online influencers have participated in international travel organized by PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The last time media professionals from North Macedonia's national news agency, MIA, traveled to China was 2019; since then there have been no such visits. This has been checked with employees and management of MIA. Additionaly, one source from the government with a professional background in journalism, told us that he had not observed similar cases regarding other media outlets either.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have received trainings from PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the Indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC state media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the Indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or majority owned by PRC-connected individuals or entities, or media owners who have significant business interests in the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Checking the databases of media ownership in Northe Macedonia revealed no such cases. Aditionaly, a consultation with a media expert from the Asociation of Journalists of Macedonia, AJM, further corroborted this point.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, media outlets have delivered content provided by PRC state-funded media, or under content-sharing agreements with PRC state-funded media.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
MIA who once had a content-sharing Agreement with the Chinese state news agency, no longer has such an agreement and it also does not have a correspondent there. I was told this is due to financial reasons as in general MIA had to cut expenses and does not have similar agreements also with many Western agencies. Thus, usually these news on China that are produced by MIA journalists are based on information either found in world media outlets, or in media in neighbouring Serbia, [where the language is more comporehendable], but the source is not disclosed.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local newspapers, online news websites, content farms, or social media platforms receive economic support by regularly featuring advertisements from PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists who have had pressure exerted on them by the PRC, including (but not limited to) public denunciation, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa, lawsuits, or threat thereof.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
Aditionaly, the Association of Journaists of Macedonia, AJM, have no record of such cases.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media organizations that describe relations with the PRC as based on friendship, brotherhood, or otherwise use emotive language that refers to the relationship in familial terms.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Only the mouthpiece of the small pro-Russian and anti-Western Levica party, the news portal called antropol.mk, has from time to time published articles describing relations as based on these pillars. In one instance the emotional issue of North Macedonia's name was used to stir symphaty, owing to the fact that China does not and did not problematise the country's name and had allowed the Levica representative participating in activities there to name his country under the old official name, Republic of Macedonia. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Few" ratring. However, both this party and this outlet are small and marginal in North Macedonia. Therefore, this indicator deserves an 'insignificant" rating.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media personalities (including reporters, journalists or commentators) or celebrities who echo PRC talking points, such as denying the existence of or whitewashing human rights abuses (e.g. a media personality who rejects that there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
Although aforementioned antropol.mk news portal often covers China in a positive light, we have encountered no instances where this or any other outlet or media personality outright denied existence of human rights abuses. If anything, this entity seems to stir away from such toppics.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Academia
The Academia Domain measures how the PRC state attempts to restrict academic freedom by influencing or interfering with the Index country‘s academic and educational activities.
In my country, universities have established research partnerships with PRC-connected entities. (e.g. Huawei, Tencent or Alibaba)
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
With some 20 scientific projects which are mostly concentarated in the three biggest state univerisities in North Macedonia - the Sts. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje, Goce Delcev in Shtip and the University of Information Technology St. Paul the Apostole in Ohrid - PRC and PRC conected entities are seen as very well established in North Macedonia's academic sphere. On the other hand, information from more than ten private faculties and educational facilitiies in North Macedonia shows that their cooperation with PRC entities has been much more sporadic. Therefore, this indicator seserves a "Few" rating. However, given that PRC entities are present with long-standing partnerships in the three biggest and most significant universities, the significance cannot be understated as they often offer a competent alternative to cooperation with Western companies and academic centres. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Significant" ranking.
Supplementary Notes
Huawei’s Seeds for the Future project has been sending Macedonian students on study visits to China. In 2012 Huawei was chosen for the government project aiming to supply tablets for high school pupils and university students. The project is now inactive. Yet the main cooperation between Macedonian research facilities and Chinese counterparts is well developed. It is based on the two cooperation agreements that North Macedonia has signed with China. The Ministry of Education undertakes cooperation on the basis of the Agreement on Cooperation in the field of education, signed on December 5, 2007, in Beijing. The Scientific and technological cooperation agreement between the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China, was signed on March 7 1995 in Skopje. According to North Macedonia’s Education Ministry there are currently over 20 scientific cooperation projects, concluded or active. Among them is the cooperation project between Skopje’s Institute for Earthquake Engineering and the Dalian University of Technology in 2018 and 2019. Another example is the cooperation between Skopje’s state Faculty of Electronic Technical and Information Sciences, FEIT, with the School of Electronics and IT at the Xian Zhu university. Together they have worked on early diagnostics and error prevention for the Chinese rapid railroad system. Huawei’s Seeds for the Future project has been sending North Macedonia students on study visits in China which is evident by the yearly calls for scholarships which amount to around ten each year.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms or other PRC-affiliated Chinese language centers based at universities.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Confucius Institute in Skopje is the only one in the country and is opened in 2013 at the oldest and most renowned public University, "St. Cyril and Methodius". Moreover, there are Confucius classrooms open in a number of municipalities across the country. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Few" rating. A research report dubbed "Understanding the tools, narratives and influence of Chinese 'soft power' in North Macedonia" by the author Ana Krstinovska, which was published by ESTIMA and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation near the end of 2022, points out that probably the most important long-term tool for strengthening Chinese soft power in North Macedonia is the opening of this institute. This has resulted in gradual but constant increase of studentrs who learn or have learned the Chinese language and culture which currenlty accounts for several hundred people. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Significant" rating.
- http://nubsk.edu.mk/uslugi/za-korisnici/institut-konfucij
- https://estima.mk/static/c2.2a1.15_xgjv9t3kenqsccsdmit8/s1/files/rte/documents/%D0%A0%D0%B0%D0%B7%D0%B1%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%9A%D0%B5%20%D0%BD%D0%B0%20%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%BA%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%2C%20%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%20%D0%B8%20%D0%B2%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%BE%20%D0%BD%D0%B0%20%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B0%20%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%20%D0%BC%D0%BE%D1%9C%20%D0%B2%D0%BE%20%D0%A1%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%BD%D0%B0%20%D0%9C%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0%20_%D0%BF%D1%83%D0%B1%D0%BB%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0_mail.pdf
Supplementary Notes
Aditionally, sources tell us that Confucius classrooms do exist in a number of municipalities across the country but according to this source they offer only language classes.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country plans to include, or does include, Chinese as a foreign language in K-12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
While the country does not have such plans or arrangements in place, there is evidence that at least one significant municipality has made such arrengements this year. In June 2023 Skopje's Karposh municipality [which is one of the biggest urban municipalities in the capital Skopje] and its head, Stevco Jakimovski, hosted the Chinese Ambassador to the country to mark 30 years of establishment of bilateral relations between the two countries. During the occasion, this opposition mayor signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Confucius institute so that the pupils of this municipality can attend Chinese language courses.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more think tanks and academic research centers belong to PRC-affiliated networks/associations (such as: the Silk Road Think Tank Association, Silk Road Think Tank Network [SiLKS], Belt and Road Studies Network, University Alliance of the Silk Road, University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
From the publically available data and from talks with experts it does not appear that think tanks and research centres in North Macedonia directly belong to PRC affiliated networks and associations. However, the presence of China based think tanks and their cooperation with North Macedonia’s institutions is visible. In 2018 North Macedonia hosted the fifth symposium of think tanks from China and Central and Eastern Europe as part of the 16+1 cooperation initiative. Addressed by the then North Macedonia PM Zoran Zaev, the symposium was held in the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts and was organised by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and North Macedonia’s Institute for Geostrategic Studies and Foreign Policy of the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities, such as through grants, donations, sponsored exchange programs, or fellowship programs at PRC institutions.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
91 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC or to other countries organized or run by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
2024
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Local experts have told us that while in most cases the cooperation is based on visits of Chinese scholars to North Macedonia, there are less frequent cases of North Macedonia's scholars viting China as well. However, they could not mention any concrete case from this year. Therefore, while the local experts have observed the Indicator phenomena, they cannot provide the necessary documentary evidence to answer the Indicator in the affirmative.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, organized PRC-connected student groups, such as Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs), are involved in attempts to censor staff or students (e.g. by harassing students protesting human rights abuses in the PRC, or formally complaining about the identification of Taiwan as a country in lecture slides).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars or academics have been pressured after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC, including via visa denials for PRC travel, workplace censure, lawsuits, legal challenges, or threats thereof.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities have been involved in school or university curriculum design, such as courses about East Asian history, modern politics, etc.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have published articles that echo PRC talking points, such as denying the existence of or whitewashing human rights abuses (e.g. an academic who rejects that there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Economy
The Economy Domain measures the PRC‘s economic leverage in the Index country, and how this is used to influence economic policy or corporate behavior in ways that favor the PRC.
The PRC is my country's number one trading partner (for trade in goods only).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
PRC-connected entities own more than 25% of my country’s bilateral sovereign debt.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
93 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC is the top customer for my country’s extractive industries.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The extraction of metals and minerals is one of the important industrial branches in North Macedonia. The data from the State Statistical Agency indicate that by far most of the exports of metals and minerals goes to the EU countries, with Germany being in the lead.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-related entities own, operate or substantially control critical infrastructure (e.g. ports, power plants, digital data centers, etc) or sensitive sectors (biotech, raw materials, etc.)
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country joined (or applied to join) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, major businesses are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, or of the Belt and Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance, or of the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Macedonian Chamber of Commerce, MCC, and the Economic Chamber of Macedonia are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce. Therefore, this indicator deserves a “Yes” response.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, financial institutions use the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) clearing and settlement services system.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has been the target of PRC economic coercion (e.g. trade/investment sanctions, boycotts) after the government, private companies, or NGOs made statements or introduced policies deemed unfavorable to the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has free-trade agreement(s) with the PRC (either bilateral or as part of regional agreement(s)) that primarily deals with trade in goods or services, including digital goods or services.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The provided link marks all the free trade agreements that North Macedonia is part of. China is not among those.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have relaxed or removed regulatory restrictions, or have established special economic zones (or free trade zones, industrial parks, etc.) to attract investments or economic participation from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The former government of North Macedonia led by the right wing VMRO DPMNE party, in power from 2006 to 2016, had expressed on several occasions plans to open such a free zone to attract Chinese businesses. However, this did not come to fruition and individuals from the business sector have told us that the zones were never established mainly due to a lack of Chinese interest at that time. The current Social Democrat-led governments, from 2017 onwards, have not shown public interest for relaxing regulations or setting up special economic zones particularly for Chinese investors.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has undergone a default or restructuring of a public debt arrangement with PRC-affiliated financial entities, which may have involved the transfer of my country's land or infrastructure in exchange for debt forgiveness.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Society
The Society Domain measures the extent and effectiveness of the PRC‘s efforts to advance its soft power in the Index country, including its influence over the actions and views of local organizations and citizens.
In my country, there are local groups or organizations with words like “Promotion of Peaceful Reunification” in their name, and they regularly publicize their views on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang issues.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, labor unions have engaged with the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) through exchanges or official visits, received material or financial donations, or participated in training sessions offered by the ACFTU on subjects like collective bargaining.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat Festival tournaments, etc) hosted or sponsored by organizations or personnel linked to the UFWD, or by PRC diplomats.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations, such as the All-China Journalists Association (中华全国新闻工作者协会), China Artists Association (中国艺术家协会), China Writers Association (中国作家协会) or All-China Women Federation (全国妇联), that are closely engaged with their local counterparts through exchanges or official visits, providing material or financial donations, or hosting training sessions.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the PRC government or PRC-connected entities distribute entertainment products (including: drama and TV shows) or related hardwares (e.g. OTT streaming players hosting PRC media channels) freely or at a cheap price.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The private national Telma TV has been running a show dedicated to China and China-North Macedonia relations, called “Nihao – Get to know China”, since 2021. The 30-minute-long monthly show portrays China in a vastly favorable light, emphasizing its culture, tradition as well as its modern achievements and economic might. Therefore, the indicator deserves a "Few" rating. The show has been running with the support by the Chinese Embassy in North Macedonia, but has very little viewership or impact. Therefore, this indicator deserves an "Insignificant" rating.
- https://www.youtube.com/@nihao7868/videos
- https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/web//gjhdq_676201/gj_676203/oz_678770/1206_679474/1206x2_679494/202204/t20220408_10666021.shtml
- http://mk.china-embassy.gov.cn/sgxw/202207/t20220704_10714658.htm
- https://www.powerchina.cn/art/2022/6/15/art_7449_1425866.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are the main shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on their usage.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The most used communication and apps are Telekom MK, WhatsApp, Viber, Snapchat and Messenger. Although their order has changed slightly, these are the same apps that were most popular last year as well. As far as I checked they have no Chinese involvement. The provided URL measures the apps by usage.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are cultural events, cultural exchange projects, or cultural organizations that are funded by or receive funding from PRC-connected entities, including in sports.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Supplementary Notes
While we have not observed instances where PRC-connected entities were involved in direct funding of cultural events, projects and organisations, it should be noted that Chinese culture is present and frequently presented at smaller cultural events troughout the country, usually at culture or food festivals organised by municipal authorities. At these events the Confucius institute, including both professors and students from there, are frequent pariticipants, presenting varying aspects of Chinese culture and cuisine. This can be ilustrated by the provided URL which notes the activities of the institute troughout the year.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, gamers, gaming communities, or game developers/publishers have been involved in freedom of speech controversies related to the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, polling data or opinion surveys indicate that a majority of citizens hold favorable views toward the PRC government.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
90 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Military
The Military Domain gauges the bilateral military relationship between the PRC and the Index country, including PRC efforts to influence local military personnel.
My country currently imports (or receives in-kind donation of) military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country’s government has participated in one or more multilateral security dialogues organized by the PRC (e.g. China-Africa Peace and Security Forum; the Conference on Interaction & Confidence Building Measures in Asia).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country co-develops or co-produces military or law-enforcement equipment with the PRC (including arrangements where PLA-affiliated professionals work in domestic labs researching dual-use technologies).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports that the PRC has expressed intentions or has taken actions to establish bases.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military personnel are permanently or rotationally deployed (excluding defense attaches and peacekeepers).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, military professionals have participated in military education or training programs provided by the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, senior military or civilian defense leaders have participated in bilateral meetings with PLA officers at or above the one-star rank.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officers have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public service.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
90 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officials publicly advocate for friendly foreign policy or military cooperation with the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Domain measures law enforcement cooperation between the PRC and the Index country, as well as the nature and extent of PRC-related criminal activity in the Index country.
My country currently maintains an extradition treaty, legal mutual assistance or other similar arrangements with the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement authorities have signed cooperation agreements with the PRC on combating terrorism.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected gangs (such as Triad, 三合会) are known to be operating in my country.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, security services (安保/保安) offered by private PRC companies are contracted by national or subnational governments.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement and judicial-related training offered by PRC-connected individuals or entities have been accepted by national or subnational governments.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, organized local criminal groups are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate, or punish individuals critical of the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of cyber attacks targeting government, critical infrastructure, or enterprises that were suspected to be initiated from the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities have established extra-legal physical premises from which to surveil or detain members of the Chinese diaspora (e.g. overseas police service stations).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
93 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has arbitrarily detained people at the behest of the PRC, such as those who engage in political activism or those who are members of minority groups.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has extradited or deported individuals to the PRC despite criticism from politicians, government employees, or NGOs.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deployed video or internet surveillance systems from the PRC for law enforcement.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Technology
The Technology Domain gauges the PRC‘s influence over the technology sector in the Index country, including the activity and financial leverage of PRC companies, use of PRC hardware, and bilateral research partnerships.
In my country, PRC-connected entities (such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) or their subsidiaries provide telecom services.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Deutsche Telecom and Austrian Telecom hold by far the biggest share in this sector, and PRC connected entities are not present.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have signed agreements to adopt hardwares or technical specifications of 4G or 5G cellular networks that are produced or developed by Huawei, ZTE or other PRC enterprises.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
While the use of hardware from these companies was relatively common before 2020, that year North Macedonia signed a memorandum for safe 5G network with the United States that practically prohibited these purchases. This prevented Makedonski Telekom, owned ultimately by Deutsche Telecom, from purchasing equipment from Huawei for its 5G network. Thus, while in the past telecoms have signed such agreements for 3G and 4G equipment, they are now prohibited from doing so as 5G is about to be rolled out. Consequently, in 2022 Makedonski Telekom launched its 5G network but the equipment was purchased from Ericsson. It was the same case with the second telecom provider, A1, which is owned by Austrian Telecom, which also purchased its equipment from Ericsson. However, the extent of the use of previously purchased Chinese 3G and 4G equipment by telecom operators is not fully clear. The regulatory body, the Agency for Electronic Communications, AEK, in 2022 and in 2023 said that the intent is for this equipment to be gradually phased out by the operators by the end of 2023. The operators however are reluctant to speak in detail about the pace of this process and whether it has been completed. So in essence there is circumstantial evidence that operators no longer purchase 4G equipment from Chinese producers and are phasing out the old equipment, but there is no way to verify that for sure.
- https://meta.mk/so-razvojot-na-5g-mrezhata-dojde-krajot-na-kineskata-dominacija-vo-makedonskiot-telekomunikaciski-sektor/
- https://www.slobodnaevropa.mk/a/%D0%BC%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0-%D0%B8-%D0%BA%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%98%D0%B5-%D1%9C%D0%B5-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%88%D0%B0%D1%82-%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BE%D1%80-%D0%B7%D0%B0-%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0-5%D0%B3-%D0%BC%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B6%D0%B0-/30908557.html
- https://balkaninsight.com/2020/10/27/north-macedonias-5g-plans-put-chinas-friendship-at-risk/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, internet service providers have signed agreements to adopt hardware or technical specifications for Wi-Fi or fiber optic/broadband networks that are produced or developed by PRC enterprises.
2024
Skip
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
91 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
ISP's still use some Wi-Fi equipment from Huawei and ZTE that has been purchased before 2020. For example, such routers can still be found in some househoold as part of the equipment supplied by the providers but we were not able to find any data related to how widespread that is. Due to the secrecy of these agreements and the unwillingness of operators to disclose them, there is also no data on whether they are still in effect or have been effectivly terminated. A source fropm the regulatory body, the Agency for Electronic Communication told us that he is pretty sure that during 2023 operators have not signed new contracts for Chinese equipment, but he was not able to substantiate that with evidence. Therefore, a definite answer to this Indicator cannot be provided.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized to supply tech-related equipment for critical infrastructure (such as airports, public transport, government IT networks, ports etc.).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the central or local government has signed agreements to adopt biometric surveillance technology (such as facial, voice, DNA or gait recognition) produced by PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city systems.”
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
- https://www.slobodnaevropa.mk/a/taen-tender-za-tret-vid-kameri-nad-soobrakjajnicite/32750932.html
- https://gradska.mk/proektot-smart-siti-dve-godini-se-nadgraduva-a-skop%D1%98e-cheka-da-stane-pameten-grad/
Supplementary Notes
In November 2023, the Interior Ministry signed a contract for procurement of aditional cameras that are to be installed to upgrade the "Safe City" project in the capital Skopje which is to be used by the law enforcement authorities. However the details of this procurement are not public. Still, there is nothing to indicate that the Interior Ministry of a country that just few years ago, in 2020, became member of NATO may have purchased equipment of Chinese origin.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country is directly served by a subsea or land-based major fiber optic internet cable built by a PRC-connected entity, or has greenlit plans for one to be built in the future.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-affiliated venture capital, financial firms or PRC government entities invest in local technology start-ups.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, companies have publicly announced that they had signed MOUs to collaborate on technological development (such as collaborations in A.I., Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Big Data) with PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has signed space cooperation agreements or memorandums of understanding, or formed space cooperation mechanisms with PRC-connected entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the central or local government(s) has collaborated with the PRC on endorsing the use of the BeiDou satellite navigation system.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Domestic Politics
The Domestic Politics Domain evaluates PRC efforts to influence the political landscape in the Index country, and the footprint of PRC security companies.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the sub-national level are signing agreements with the PRC government or state-owned enterprises.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In June 2023 Skopje's Karposh municipality [which is one of the biggest urban municipalities in the capital Skopje] and its head, Stevco Jakimovski, signеd a cooperation memorandum with the Confucius Institute that will allow school children to learn the Chinese language. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Few" rating. However, this is the only example available through publically available data. Therefore, this Indicator deserves and "insignificant" rating.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local municipalities or provinces have sister-city or sister-province ties (友好城市) with municipalities or provinces in the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The capital Skopje’s sister city is Nanchang. The town of Prilep is a sister city of Deyang in China. The town of Ohrid has a sister city in Dalian, China. Therefore, this indicastor deserves a "Few" rating. Hopwever, the cooperation between these sister cities is fairly limited, restrained to few donations of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and on rare mutual visits of cordial nature but with little to no practical meaning, last of which was reported in 2018. Therefore, this indicator deserves an 'insignificant" rating.
- https://sdk.mk/index.php/dopisna-mrezha/50-000-maski-od-zbratimeniot-grad-nanchang-podeleni-na-bolnitsite-vo-skopje/
- https://a1on.mk/macedonia/delegacija-od-zbratimeniot-kineski-grad-dalijan-vo-poseta-na-ohrid/
- https://ohrid.gov.mk/%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8-%D0%B8-%D0%B7%D0%B1%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8-%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B8/#1550493792804-9dd50839-cc473bde-e13530e7-072b
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Zz0A7j6gIXo
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the local (non-national) level visit the PRC and meet with PRC officials and think tanks.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In June 2023 Skopje's Karposh municipality [which is one of the biggest urban municipalities in the capital Skopje] and its head, Stevco Jakimovski, hosted the Chinese Ambassador to the country to mark 30 years of establishment of bilateral relations between the two countries and sign a cooperation memorandum that will allow school children to learn the Chinese language. In February the Chinese Ambassador visited the small rural municpaity of Zrnovci where he talked about development of rural and ethno tourism where China is interested to help. In June he visited the town of Kriva Palanka where he donated garbage bins and a children's playground. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Few" rating. However, these visits are relativley rare and in terms of substance, represent only a cordial exchange and in most cases are accompanieed by a symbolic Chinese donation. Therefore, this Indicator deserves and "insignificant" rating.
- https://nezavisen.mk/stevcho-jakimovski-odnosite-so-kina-ne-ni-se-na-nivoto-od-pred-deset-godini/
- https://mia.mk/story/%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BE%D1%82-%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B1%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%BE%D1%80-%D1%9F%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B3-%D1%95%D1%83%D0%BE-%D1%98%D0%B0-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B8-%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%88%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%B7%D1%80%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D1%86%D0%B8-%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%98%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%B8-%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81-%D0%B7%D0%B0-%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%BE%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%80%D1%83%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BE%D1%82-%D1%82%D1%83%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BC
- https://www.krivapalanka.gov.mk/novosti/33711
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Representatives of a political party in my country’s national legislature have been invited to visit the PRC or attended events hosted by the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party (中共中央对外联络部), including World Political Parties Summits, CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meetings, BRICS Political Parties Dialogues, Think Tanks and Civil Society Organizations Fora, etc.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In March 15, 2023, the head of the small Levica (Left) party and an MP, Dimitar Apasiev , attended through video conferrence call, the world summit of the Chinese Communist Party. In April, 2023 another Levica representative atended a Bejing based "China -Central and Eastern Europe Youth Development Forum". Therefore this indicator deserves a "Few" rating. This is a small parliamentary opposition party with just two MP's in the 120 seat parliament, and its pro-Chinese enthusiasm is not shared by other prominent parties. Therefore, this indicator deserves an "insignificant" rating.
- https://mia.mk/story/%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%B0-%D1%83%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2%D1%83%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B5-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%81%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8-%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%82-%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B3%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BC%D1%83%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B0-%D0%BF%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0
- https://antropol.mk/2023/04/01/repubika-makedonija-levica-kina/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign finance or significant in-kind donations from PRC-connected entities or individuals.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have hosted fundraisings or have provided other forms of support for government employees, politicians or parties.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
PRC officials or PRC state media have criticized, harassed, or threatened local politicians, local government officials, or political parties in my country due to their activities, statements or policy advocacy.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly echoed PRC talking points (e.g. denying PRC human rights issues, arguing that the PRC’s one-party political system could be beneficial for my country’s economic growth).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public office.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, officials, political parties, and political elites try to suppress criticism of the PRC.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
92 countries answered this indicator; 6 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Foreign Policy
The Foreign Policy Domain gauges PRC efforts to achieve diplomatic objectives by influencing key actors in the Index country.
My country’s legislature has a joint parliamentary friendship group, committee or other forms of sub-organizations with the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The current composition of this Parliamentary Cooperation Group for Cooperation with the Parliament of the PRC includes the following MP’s: Vlado Misajlovski as group president, members include Lidija Petkoska, Igor Zdravkovski, Marija Georgievska, Jovan Mitreski, Goran Misovski, Bajram Kadrija and Afrim Gashi. Therefore, this indicator deserves a "Yes" response.
Supplementary Notes
Worth noting that this year we have not observed any significant forms of cooperation or comunication between the two parliaments. The last time when North Macedonia's Parliament Speaker Talat Xhaferi visited China, leading an delegatiuon of legislators, was in 2019. That was also the last time a Chinese parliamentary delegation visited North Macedonia.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country receives foreign aid or significant in-kind donations from the PRC.
2024
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
During the breakout of the COVID-19 crisis, North Macedonia saw notable aid in medical equipment, foremost masks and vaccines from China. Therefore, the indicator deserves a "More than a few rating". This was done in a period when the country was struggling to procure any significant amount of such medical necessities from its western partners, and came as a soft diplomacy win for PRC. Therefore, the indicator deserves a "Significant" rating. In addition, PRC also occasionally donates other types of equipment, like IT equipment, to local municipalities in North Macedonia.
- https://mod.gov.mk/primopredavanje-donacija-od-nr-kina-14-07-2020/
- https://cepa.org/comprehensive-reports/chinese-influence-in-north-macedonia/#footnote_9_508
- https://chinaobservers.eu/chinas-aid-in-the-western-balkans-supporting-development-undermining-good-governance/
- http://mk.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgxw/202006/t20200605_2542522.htm
- http://www.news.cn/english/2020-10/30/c_139477147.htm
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC provides training to diplomats or civil servants on governance from my country (such as at 国家行政学院 or 中央党校).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Citizens of my country have been detained in the PRC or denied exit for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy.”
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government officials participate in events or projects affiliated with the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED, 中国环境与发展国际合作委员会).
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
94 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has signed an agreement with the PRC to classify their diplomatic relationship as a "Strategic Partnership" or beyond.
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is no observation of the indicator phenomenon.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country unquestionably uses PRC’s "One China Principle" which articulates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, rather than my country's own "One China Policy."
2024
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
95 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
When it comes to Taiwan, there is no evidence that North Macedonia has used the PRC's stand. The country in 1999 recognised Taiwan with an expectance that Taiwan would direct significant investments, and in what was later described as the "Taiwan adventure" lost the support of China as a key country in the UN Security Council. In 2011 Skopje revoked the recognition of Taiwan and that same year it reestablished diplomatic ties with China. However, cooperation with Taiwan has remained somewhat active on the economic level as witnessed by a recent announcement of a significant Taiwanese investment this year as testified by the link.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016); except claims over Taiwan, which are indirectly covered in indicator 7.
2024
Silence
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's treatment, governance, or policy towards the Uyghur population in Xinjiang.
2024
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
97 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
My government has been part of a joint statement of 43 UN member states that expressed concern over the treatment of Uyghurs and has opposed the PRC's treatment, goverrnance or policy towards the Uyghyr popilation and the indicator warrants 0 score.
- https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/joint-statement-on-the-human-rights-situation-in-the-xinjiang
- https://onu.delegfrance.org/we-call-on-china-to-allow-immediate-meaningful-and-unfettered-access-to
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's treatment, governance, or policy toward the Tibet population.
2024
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
96 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
My country has been part of a joint UN statement expressing conern over PRC's policy towards the Tibet and so the indicator warrants 0 score.
- https://new-york-un.diplo.de/un-en/news-corner/201006-heusgen-china/2402648
- https://web.archive.org/web/20231107052457/https://thediplomat.com/2020/10/2020-edition-which-countries-are-for-or-against-chinas-xinjiang-policies/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has supported, remained silent about, or opposed the PRC's ongoing repression in Hong Kong, such as the imposition of the National Security Law or other actions to persecute Hong Kong protestors or activists.
2024
Oppose
0/ My country has rejected PRC‘s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC‘s claim
98 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
My country has opposed the PRC's repression in Hong Kong and so the indicator warrants 0 score.
- https://new-york-un.diplo.de/un-en/news-corner/201006-heusgen-china/2402648
- https://web.archive.org/web/20231107052457/https://thediplomat.com/2020/10/2020-edition-which-countries-are-for-or-against-chinas-xinjiang-policies/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.