Montenegro’s Reforms Gain Momentum Ahead of EU Membership Talks

The latest report from the European Commission highlights significant progress in Montenegro’s reform efforts, indicating strong support from Brussels on its path towards European Union membership. According to Momčilo Leković, a member of the Democratic Montenegro party, the government’s performance has garnered commendation, marking the report as the most positive to date. He believes that if Montenegro can successfully close five or six negotiating chapters by the end of the year, it will send a strong signal about the country’s reform momentum.

In an interview with Pobjeda, Leković emphasized the importance of strengthening the security sector as a foundational element for broader reforms. He pointed to the recent findings of the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), which ranked Montenegro 64th out of 193 countries globally in its 2025 Organized Crime Index, placing it 10th in Europe. This improvement of ten places worldwide and five in Europe compared to the previous cycle underscores the effectiveness of measures against organized crime, corruption, and money laundering.

“The data is significant because it indicates that our security system is better prepared to address serious threats. It also enhances our international image and positively impacts the negotiation process for EU membership,” Leković stated. He believes that enhancing public trust in institutions that protect the integrity of the state is essential for further progress.

Leković noted that processes such as vetting, fortifying independent institutions, and appointing professional judges to the highest judicial bodies are crucial for the overall reform landscape. He underscored the urgency of filling vacant judgeships in the Constitutional Court, stressing the need for the parliament to demonstrate that institutional procedures operate efficiently rather than through delays.

“I am confident that this will be completed soon, signaling to citizens that the rule of law is indeed a priority,” Leković added. Despite acknowledging the high ambition levels, he expressed optimism that reforms in Chapters 23 and 24 will meet the established deadlines.

To successfully conclude these chapters, specific results in the judiciary, including verdicts for high-level corruption cases, transparency in processes, and consistent law enforcement, are essential. “Only then can citizens see that institutions function properly, not merely exist on paper. Progress in the security sector provides a clear roadmap for all other areas, particularly the judiciary,” he explained.

Regarding Chapter 27, which focuses on environmental protection, Leković highlighted Montenegro’s capacity to develop strategic documents and activate international financial support. He mentioned that practical projects, such as wastewater treatment systems, will test the country’s ability to transform plans into tangible results. Successful implementation would enhance confidence in meeting EU standards, even in challenging chapters.

Leković also expressed hope that the ongoing issue concerning the location of wastewater treatment facilities in Botun, near Podgorica, will be resolved satisfactorily for all parties involved.

“Montenegro is currently in a very positive position, supported by the EU, with tangible progress in the security sector and clearly defined reform processes. If we maintain this pace, strengthen our institutions, and turn vetting and independence into reality across all areas, particularly in the judiciary, the closure of negotiations and entry into the EU could become increasingly likely by 2028,” Leković concluded.