Youth aspirtion survey in Republic of Macedonia ? The state institutions, according to young people, are primarily responsible for the low economic growth and unemployment. ? However, the young people place part of the responsibility on other factors, including themselves. ? Another great problem is an outdated educational system that is undergoing reforms, but, according to young people, not sufficiently. ? They see the process of European Integration as a possibility for faster economic development, and, at the same time, new work opportunities. ? According to the respondents, the greatest investment should be made in agriculture. ? A certain number of young people consider emigration to be a quicker solution to their economic problems, that is, an option to find employment more quickly and earn financial resources for living. ? However, a great many of them see emigration as a last resort. ? The majority of those who would leave the country for a shorter period of time would prefer the EU, whereas those who would venture abroad for a longer period of time, or relocate permanently, would prefer North America or Australia. Recommendations: ? Make reducing unemployment among young people a top priority of the economic policy of the country. ? Decrease pension and health care contributions from the salaries of all personnel under the age of 30, especially if it is their first employment. ? Provide free retraining courses and qualifying courses for young people to enable them to find jobs more easily. ? Advance“part-time” jobs as a way to increase employment among young people, and as a means of self­support during their studies. ? Create a campaign aimed towards the young population of the Republic of Macedonia as a means for endorsing: ? an acceptance of a part of the responsibility for the economic development of the country ? a greater personal engagement for the increase of their own incomes ? an active participation in educational and economic reform as a prerequisite for personal improvement and to better their chances for business success ? a reduction of their reliance on state institutions ? an awareness of the various possibilities for progress in the business sphere, which would serve to decrease the lure of emigration. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung 44