DPM Markovic, EU official: Judiciary reform crucial for Montenegro’s EU accession

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Dusko Markovic and  Stefano Sannino, Deputy Director General of the DG for External Relations, agreed during their meeting on Thursday that legal security, independent, professional and accountable judiciary, as well as successful fight against organised crime and corruption, are essential for Montenegro’s progress towards the EU membership.

The Government bears the greatest responsibility, but European integration is a common obligation, DPM Markovic remarked. ‘’That is why we opened an internal dialogue involving all social stakeholders: Parliament, trade unions, NGOs, religious communities, etc, as we must make European perspective a joint interest’’, he explained.

With regard to the most challenging tasks Montenegro is about to tackle on its European path, the DPM underlined strengthening the fight against corruption and organised crime, reducing the number of outstanding court decisions, improving the system of criminal sanctions execution, better implementation of laws and reinforcing state administration capacities.

He also briefed Mr Saninno about amendments to a set of systematic laws, which will set the ground for a merit-based appointment and promotion of judges and prosecutors, as well as for their accountability. DPM Markovic also commented on the amendments to the Criminal Code, which will prescribe decriminalisation of defamation and announced the new Law on execution and provision, aimed at creating better business environment.

Deputy Director General Sannino invited DPM Markovic to visit Brussels and to acquaint European Commissioner for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship Viviane Reding with content and pace of Montenegrin judiciary reform.