North Macedonia
* 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.
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.
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.
Effect
Effect evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual effects and impacts on the target country.
In 2021, North Macedonia had a GDP per capita of US$6,713 and a total estimated population of 2.06 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 57th in Reporters Without Borders 2021 World Press Freedom Index, and listed as Partly Free in Freedom House’s 2021 Global Freedom Status, with a score of 66/100.
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.
- Media0.0% / 30.1%
- Academia10.0% / 34%
- Economy18.2% / 33.6%
- Society2.3% / 23.6%
- Military9.1% / 23.4%
- Law Enforcement0.0% / 30.2%
- Technology9.1% / 40.8%
- Domestic Politics15.9% / 37.2%
- Foreign Policy15.9% / 41%
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
42 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
39 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
23 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 attended all-expenses paid media tours in PRC.
Skip
Skipped
11 countries chose this answer
0/ No
15 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
15 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
13 countries chose this answer
71 countries answered this indicator; 11 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Over the past three decades of North Macedonia’s independence there has only been one big organised visit of Macedonian journalists to China, which happened in 1996. This has happened after in 1994 and 1995, two Chinese journalistic groups had visited North Macedonia The visit of journalists from China and a subsequent visit of Macedonian journalists there had happened through a cooperation between the All-China Journalists Association and North Macedonia’s biggest Journalists Association of Macedonia, ZNM. The two maintain cooperation and sporadic visits of delegations. The last one happened in 2017 when a Chinese delegation has visited ZNM (see the URL above). It was generally hard to pinpoint whether smaller group or individual visits by Macedonian journalists to China paid by PRC have happened ever since 1996. Experts consulted told us that the Macedonian State News Agency, MIA, has a bilateral cooperation agreement with Xinhua and that as a result several MIA journalists have attended visits to China. This happened in the years before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The last trip of MIA journalists to China happened in 2019, and had been facilitated and paid for by the Chinese Embassy in North Macedonia. Since the pandemic hit, there have been no similar visits.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
16 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
24 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
22 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
0 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media outlets that have delivered cheap or free contents provided by PRC state-fund media.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
22 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
21 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
During our research, we found no instances of North Macedonian media outlets of any kind offering Chinese news content. However, when it comes to the wider context, a Skopje based analyst and expert on China told us that in the last decade, unlike the influence of Russia which has been seen as more of a disruptive force aimed at spreading false narratives and creating problems, the Chinese influence has been rather different, focused much more at creating a positive image of China, as a benevolent soft power in the region and the world, and a country of stunning achievements. In this respect, the Chinese narratives have been visible in the traditional media, trough content provided or inspired by Chinese outlets, as well as in the online media and trough social networks. The expert argues that this is the case mainly due to the bad financial state North Macedonian media are in, which makes them more susceptible to copy-pasting content from abroad instead of dedicating their own effort to produce such stories, rather than pressure or other forms of influences on them. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a study on disinformation in North Macedonia has identified three main Chinese narratives that have also penetrated North Macedonia’s media space: denouncing the possibility that the virus originated from China, emphasizing the failure of Western countries in dealing with the health crisis and outlining the help that China has offered to other countries, including North Macedonia. However, in the vast majority of cases, reporting about these topics in the country has been balanced or somewhat balanced, offering Chinese views confronted with the Western ones.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are regular PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social media.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
38 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
15 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 denouncement, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
57 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
24 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are incidents of media outlets censoring views critical of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There are no known cases of media censoring views critical of China, but we have provided a somewhat lower confidence level as it is impossible to be certain that such pressure has not been exertd behind the scenes, even if we believe that it is unlikely.
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 deny the existence of human rights abuses in the PRC (e.g. a media personality that doubts there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While we have not found evidence of any significant media personalities or celebrities denying the existance of human rights abuses in the PRC, such narratives can sometimes be found on social media in general, although even then they are not frequent and in significant numbers, because this is not a matter of debate in North Macedonia, a small country with a very limited focus on distant events in China.
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)
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
9 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
31 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
25 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://360stepeni.mk/od-ekonomski-i-politichki-umerena-do-obrazovno-seprisutno-jaka-vlijanieto-na-kina-vo-s-makedonija/
- https://mioa.gov.mk/?q=mk/node/2053
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 PRC Scientific and technological cooperation 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. Some of them are the cooperation between Skopje’s Institute for Earthquake Engineering and the Dalian University of Technology in 2018 and 2019. Another example is the cooperation between the 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.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
5 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
31 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
27 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
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 K12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
40 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
17 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 support from PRC-connected individuals or entities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
10 countries chose this answer
0/ No
21 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
72 countries answered this indicator; 10 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is no evidence to suggest that such financial support from PRC has been recieved.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Skip
Skipped
13 countries chose this answer
0/ No
17 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
15 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
14 countries chose this answer
69 countries answered this indicator; 13 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
As part of a student exchange program, thus far some 100 students from North Macedonia have been on study visits to China, according to the Education Ministry. The call for applying for these visits, sponsored by the Chinese Trade Ministry are active for the 2022/23 school year. As for professors and senior researchers sent on paid visits to China, the data is scarce. An expert we consulted notes however, that this is a fairly common practice and that North Macedonia’s education system, underfunded as it is, benefits from China cooperation.
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
5 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars or academics have been denied visas to travel to the PRC after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
6 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
16 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are confirmed reports of teachers or professors avoiding the discussion of sensitive political issues (e.g. Uyghur re-education camps, Taiwan independence, Tiananmen Square Massacre).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
5 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
6 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
77 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The latest 2022 data from the State Statistical office note that Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Bulgaria and Serbia are the country’s top 5 trading partners. The data shows that China takes the 28th place (see the URL above) .
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
PRC-connected entities own more than 50% of my country’s sovereign debt.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
77 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
In 2021 North Macedonia’s debt amounted to about 6.5 billion USD. Of that about 500 million USD is owed to the Chinese Exim Bank.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
20 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
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.)
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
36 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
46 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
27 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
55 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
41 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
41 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
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 or investment sanctions) that was specifically tailored at products or services that are highly dependent on the PRC market.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
18 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local businesses have been harassed, threatened, or boycotted, due to their activities or statements in support of causes deemed unacceptable by the PRC government (e.g. Taiwanese independence, Hong Kong democracy, Tibet or Xinjiang issues, etc).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is no evidence of such harrassment, but equally little evidence of North Macedonian companies taking stances on such issues.
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.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Agreement between the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on trade and economic cooperation: concluded on 31 May 1995 in Beijing, ratified on 29 November 1995, published in the “Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia” no. 60/1995, and effective 14 April 1996. Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on the avoidance of double taxation and the protection against fiscal evasion with respect to income tax and capital tax: concluded on 9 June 1997 in Beijing, ratified on 18 September 1997, published in the “Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia” no. 49/97, and effective 29 November 1997. Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on encouragement and mutual protection of investments: concluded on 9 June 1997 in Beijing, ratified on 18 September 1997, published in the “Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia” no. 49/97, and effective 1 November 1997.
- https://www.slvesnik.com.mk/Issues/27896C2B56BE464F84324F80C3B766AB.pdf
- https://finance.gov.mk/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Kina_0.pdf
- https://ecfr.eu/special/china-balkans/north-macedonia/#economy-business
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The former North Macedonian government led by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, who was in power from 2006 to 2016, had expressed on several occasion 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.
In my country, PRC-connected entities requisitioned infrastructure or land for failure to repay debts in a timely manner.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
76 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
4 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
49 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, labor unions cooperate on exchanges or official visits to the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local reports of personnel linked to the UFWD who make appearances at Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat festival tournaments, etc).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations that are closely engaged with their counterparts locally, such as 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).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
33 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
25 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
8 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Cooperation between Macedonia’s Journalists Association and All-China Journalists Association (see URL1 below). China and North Macedonia sign cultural cooperation program (see URL2 below). In 1996 a Chinese Writers Delegation led by Gao Ping, President of the Writers' Association of Gansu Province, paid a visit to Macedonia and attended the 35th Struga International Poem Festival and the 25th Annual Conference of International Translators organization. Later same year the President of the Macedonia Writers' Association Svetlana Hristova Jocik visited China (see URL3 beolw).
- https://znm.org.mk/en/representatives-of-the-ajm-met-with-the-representatives-of-the-chinese-journalists-association/
- https://vlada.mk/node/686?ln=sq
- https://www.mfa.gov.cn/ce/cemk//eng/zmgx/t374485.htm
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is no data to suggest that such donations have been made.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
38 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
21 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
11 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Cultural products (such as films and TV shows) produced by my country’s production studios typically portray the PRC in a positive light.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
60 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The production in North Macedonia is very small and we could did encounter any product that would depict PRC in any light whatsoever. The only existing production is from a few travel documentaries and reportages that do depict China in positive light or generally stir clear from delving into political issues.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, celebrities regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
3 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the national or local governments regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC (e.g. statements from the PRC government or embassies).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
54 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, a majority of citizens have positive views of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
25 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There are no data on the perception on the Chines government. But a 2019 study by North Macedonia Think Tank, Prespa Institute, about the people’s perception of foreign countries notes that 1 out of 10 citizens in North Macedonia thinks that China is donating for economic and democratic development of their country, while 15 per cent of citizens connect china with trade, business, investments and cooperation (see URL above) .
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
36 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
46 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country currently exports military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment to the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
74 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
7 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
66 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 basing.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
With the outbreak of the COVID 19 pandemic, in July 14, 2020 China/ the PLA facilitated a Chinese donation to the Army of North Macedonia, worth some quarter of a million euros. The medical donation, consisted of protective masks, visors, gloves, protective suits and other medical equipment, was delivered in a base in Skopje, with visible presence of PLA unfirmed persons. While the statement by the North Macedonian Ministry of Defence refers to the donation as being from the People’s Republic of China, the same statement quotes the Chinese Ambassador as saying that the donation demonstrates cooperation between the two armies. In addition, North Macedonia had purchased COVID-19 vaccines from China, with the help of the Chinese authorities, but according to available reports, they have been delivered through regular trade routes and no participation of the PLA has been detected.
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
77 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
5 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received professional military education from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
48 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
34 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received peacekeeping training from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
11 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 advocate for more coordination with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
32 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
50 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 combatting terrorism.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
55 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
26 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
52 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
29 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of economic espionage targeting the private sector that were suspected to benefit PRC-connected entities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
49 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
9 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
15 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, triads are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate or punish Chinese dissidents.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
3 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
30 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
51 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, representatives of the PRC police force have had joint patrols with local law enforcement.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
71 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
11 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has detained people at the request of the PRC for committing a crime involving engagements with social movements or resistance activities in Hong Kong, Xinjiang or for other human rights or civic rights issues.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deported Taiwan citizens to the PRC to face prosecution.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
71 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
9 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has extradited or has deported individuals to the PRC, although such decisions had attracted criticisms from politicians, government employees or from local or foreign NGOs.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
21 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
52 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
30 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
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.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
0/ No
16 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
27 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
30 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- 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/
Supplementary Notes
The use of hardware from these companies was relatively common before 2020. But in 2020 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, they will be prohibited from doing so in the future.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have adopted hardware or technical specifications by PRC-connected entities in internet/wifi/telecommunication service infrastructure projects, in addition to 4G/5G cellular network.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
8 countries chose this answer
0/ No
14 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
24 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
23 countries chose this answer
74 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://lokalno.mk/intervju-so-zamenik-generalniot-direktor-na-huavei-ikt-sektorot-mozhe-da-ima-kluchna-uloga-vo-spravuvaneto-so-kovid-19/
- https://chinaobservers.eu/fortifying-5g-networks-in-north-macedonia-the-need-for-western-partners/
- https://www.telekom.mk/mobile-device-details.nspx?deviceId=42458&promotion=&contractId=2&tariffId=1795&groupId=117&paymentId=2&name=HUAWEI+NOVA+8i
Supplementary Notes
North Macedonia’s telecom providers are in the process of phasing out this hardware from use in their 4G networks, as well as from their cable telecommunication offerings. Some home routers are still in the hands of Telecom customers but they are being replaced, sources from T-Mobile and from A1, the country’s biggest providers told us. There are no plans for getting equipment from these companies for the 5G network after North Macedonia in 2020 signed a memorandum for safe 5G network with the United States.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized vendors to supply tech-related equipment or services to our government, military or security services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
28 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
53 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
This has been the case since North Macedonia formally became NATO’s 30th member in 2020. Previously, from the scarce data available, in 2007, North Macedonia’s Customs signed an agreement with Nuctech to buy 4 mobile scanners worth 5.5 million euro. These scanners are now not in use anymore, sources from the Customs office told us (see URL above) .
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have collaboration (such as data collection or exchange agreement, or adoption of related hardwares) with the PRC government or PRC-connected entities on facial, voice recognition or other applications involving biometrics achieved by AI.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
42 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
35 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The capital Skopje is working on the project “Skopje Smart City” but it is not known whether some of the equipment will be purchased from Chinese companies as the procedures are still ongoing. In general data on public procurements are scarce on this particular topic of origin of the equipment.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
63 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
18 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected venture capital invests in technology start-ups.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
32 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
11 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
31 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
9 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on usage.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
36 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The most used communication and apps are WhatsApp, Viber, Snapchat, Telekom MK and Messanger, and as far as I checked they have no Chinese involvement (see URL above).
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 BeiDou satellite navigation system.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
17 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
20 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- http://www.bitola.gov.mk/sorabotkabitolaningbo/
- https://mia.mk/%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-%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%88%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BF/
- https://javnaadministracija.mk/2022/05/03/vinitsa-sorabotka-so-narodna-republika-kina/
- http://mk.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/brns/201608/t20160818_2574290.htm
- https://javnaadministracija.mk/2022/06/26/kratovo-potpishana-spogodba-za-zbratimuvane-so-dhincheng-nr-kina/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local municipalities have sister-city ties (友好城市) with municipalities in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
10 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
23 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- 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
Supplementary Notes
The capital Skopje’s sister city is Nanchang. During the pandemic in 2020 Skopje received 50,000 face masks from Nanchang as help. The town of Prilep is a sister city of Deyang in China The town of Ohrid has a sister city in Dalian, China. Although local media have reported on a visit from this city in 2018 as a sister city, the municipal page notes this city not as a sister city but as a city with which they have signed a protocol for cooperation.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
22 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
16 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There have been no such cases reported in the media and our interlocutors cannot recall any instances. However, there is a slight chance that this might have happened with lower ranked or local municipal politicians and has gone under the radar.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees visit the PRC and have meetings with PRC officials and think tanks.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
1 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
32 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.aa.com.tr/mk/%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0/%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%BE%D1%82-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B1%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%BE-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%BC%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0-%D1%9F%D0%B0%D1%84%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B8-%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0/1508703
- https://www.mkd.mk/makedonija/politika/kineskite-mediumi-udarno-izvestuvaat-za-posetata-na-ivanov-na-kina
- https://www.slobodnaevropa.mk/a/24423739.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement and judicial related training offered the PRC-connected individuals or entities has been accepted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 donations that originate in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
60 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 made public statements opposing the candidacy of a local political candidate or party, claiming them being “anti-China”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
78 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
1 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
0 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly expressed positive views of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
12 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
37 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://faktor.mk/apasiev-i-levica-na-100-godishninata-od-komunistichkata-partija-na-kina
- https://vlada.mk/node/24730?ln=mk
- https://vlada.mk/node/15637?ln=sq
- https://vlada.mk/node/22431
- https://vlada.mk/node/27960?ln=mk
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
40 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No such cases have been reported and the experts consulted could not pinpoint any similar case.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
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 PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
25 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
57 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.sobranie.mk/pg-2020-2024-ns_article-pg-kina-20.nspx
- https://ecfr.eu/special/china-balkans/north-macedonia/
Supplementary Notes
The current composition of this Parliamentary Cooperation Group includes the following MP’s: Vlado Misajlovski as group president, and members including Lidija Petkoska, Igor Zdravkovski, Marija Georgievska, Jovan Mitreski, Goran Misovski, Bajram Kadrija and Afrim Gashi. On 17-20 June 2019, North Macedonia’s Parliament Speaker, Talat Xhaferi, paid a visit to China and met with the president of the National Committee of the People’s Political Consultative Conference, Wang Yang, as well as with the president of the Chinese National Assembly, Li Jangshu.
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 met officially with representatives of the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
0/ No
3 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
20 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
40 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://faktor.mk/apasiev-i-levica-na-100-godishninata-od-komunistichkata-partija-na-kina
- https://www.vmro-dpmne.org.mk/index.php/vesti/soopstenija/10975-%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%BE%D1%82-%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%BA%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8-%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B8-%D1%81%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%B1%D0%B0-%D1%81%D0%BE-%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B1%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%82-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%BD%D1%80-%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%B2%D0%BE-%D0%BC%D0%B0%D0%BA%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%98%D0%B0,-%D1%9F%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B3-%D1%95%D1%83%D0%BE
Supplementary Notes
In July, 2021, a delegation from North Macedonia’s Levica, [Left] party attended a world summit marking the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party, an event which was held online. This party is represented by 2 MP’s in North Macedonia’s 120-members Parliament, but is believed to be growing in popularity. The party has proclaimed anti-NATO and anti-Western views, and since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, has met the Russian ambassador in the country and repeatedly shared Russian stances on the invasion, portraying it as a special military action to ‘de-nazify’ Ukraine. Otherwise, Chinese Ambassadors have a semi-regular practice of meeting representatives of the biggest political parties in the country of at least once in one or two years. These meetings always pass in a cordial atmosphere, but no substantial cooperation has resulted. The press releases from such meeting follow a similar pattern where the economic cooperation and perspectives are usually emphasized, and near the end follows a remark that the political party in question has emphasized its pro-EU stances. The last such meeting took place in June 9 between Chinese Ambassador Zhang Zuo and the leadership of the main opposition conservative VMRO-DPMNE party
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).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
39 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
14 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have been pressured by PRC diplomats to change their political or diplomatic stances.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
41 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
21 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is no public evidence of such pressure, though it is to be expected that, if it did occur, it would most likely not have made it into the public domain.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Citizens of my country have been detained in PRC or denied exit visas, and believed to be suffering from unfair legal treatments for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The head of state, head of government or foreign minister of my country has denied Taiwan’s right to participate as a member, observer or guest in WHO.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
14 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country publicly supported the appointment of a PRC official to be the head of a United Nations agency (such as the FAO or ICAO) or other intergovernmental organizations (such as INTERPOL).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While there is no public voting record available, there is nothing in the public domain to suggest that North Macedonia supported the appointment of PRC officials.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has shown support of 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 6.)
Silence
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has rejected PRC’s claim
24 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
36 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC’s claim
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Uyghur population.
Oppose
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
31 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
32 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
17 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- 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 country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Tibet population.
Oppose
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
21 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
46 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has not publicly criticized the PRC’s imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong.
Oppose
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
24 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
36 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.