Montenegro Strengthens EU Integration Position with High Scores

Montenegro has received a notable boost in its European Union integration efforts, achieving an average score of 3.63 in the latest European Commission report. This marks a significant improvement compared to both 2023 and 2024, reinforcing Montenegro’s position as a leader among candidate countries. The report highlights tangible reforms and progress, prompting European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos to confirm that Montenegro is the most prepared nation for EU membership.

During a recent press conference in Brussels, Kos emphasized the importance of the forthcoming negotiations on Montenegro’s accession treaty, stating, “Montenegro has made significant progress towards EU membership, achieving tangible results in necessary reforms over the past years.” The sentiment was echoed by Kaja Kallas, the head of European diplomacy, who remarked that Montenegro is the most ready among all candidate countries, making the prospect of EU enlargement in the coming years a realistic option.

The report particularly commended Montenegro for receiving high ratings in six chapters, which achieved scores of five, indicating “significant progress.” These chapters include 31 (EU external, security, and defense policy), 9 (financial services), 32 (financial supervision), 3 (freedom of establishment and provision of services), 6 (economic law), and 7 (intellectual property rights).

Montenegro’s Record Readiness Level

A key highlight of this year’s report is that Montenegro did not receive any “weak ratings,” a stark contrast to the previous year when it had three areas marked with “no progress.” These areas were related to chapters 6, 8, and 21. The average readiness score, which reflects the overall state of affairs in specific chapters, stands at 3.45, representing the highest level of preparedness Montenegro has recorded to date.

The European Commission noted increased readiness in two critical chapters, 23 and 24, which are now closer to closure than in past years. This development reflects a positive trajectory that aligns with the government’s action plan aimed at fulfilling the necessary criteria for EU membership.

Challenges Ahead Despite Positive Review

Despite the overall encouraging assessment, concerns linger regarding key chapters, particularly 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and 24 (Justice, Freedom, and Security). These sections remain problematic, as both received lower ratings compared to last year, when Montenegro reported positive results in meeting temporary measures. Chapter 23 received a “moderate” score, while chapter 24 was rated as having “limited progress.”

Additionally, chapter 10 (Information Society and Media) received a lower score as well, although Montenegro temporarily closed this chapter during a recent intergovernmental conference in Brussels. The European Commission has consistently stated that lower ratings in these critical areas cannot be treated as mere technicalities; they are fundamental to the overall accession process.

The report outlines specific steps Montenegro must take to improve its situation in critical chapters, which are part of the action plan released by the Montenegrin government this year.

A pressing concern highlighted in the report is the selection of judges and prosecutors based on merit, particularly in the context of chapters 23 and 24. Montenegro has struggled for years to make meaningful progress in this area, which is vital for establishing the rule of law.

The report provides concrete recommendations regarding the filling of judicial positions through transparent procedures. This year, in addition to the Constitutional Court, the recommendations also include the Judicial and Prosecutorial Council. It emphasizes the need to enhance the efficiency of the judiciary by reducing the backlog of cases and implementing targeted measures, particularly in the Higher Court in Podgorica, the Administrative Court of Montenegro, and the Special State Prosecutor’s Office.

Furthermore, the report offers specific recommendations for combating corruption. It stresses the necessity of improving the balance of investigations and convictions for high-level corruption while identifying essential laws that require amendments to prevent undue delays in criminal proceedings.

The Commission also underscores the importance of monitoring the implementation of recommendations from the State Audit Institution’s reports and acknowledges the ongoing challenges in tracking the execution of the Anti-Corruption Strategy.

As Montenegro progresses in its EU integration journey, the latest report serves as both a commendation for the strides made and a reminder of the critical work that remains. The path to membership is complex, and the need for continuous reform is evident, particularly in the judiciary and fundamental rights. The coming months will be crucial for Montenegro as it aims to address these challenges and solidify its position as a frontrunner in the EU accession process.