Government adopts first monthly report on meeting EC recommendations, puts forward a number of laws

The Government of Montenegro has adopted the first monthly report on the fulfilment of commitments set out in the Action Plan for the implementation of the EC recommendations. The report shows satisfactory progress regarding the planned activities and calls for continued consultation with experts on many issues.

The Government adopted the Bill on the Protector of Human Rights and Freedoms which establishes the national mechanism for preventing torture and all forms of discrimination. The new provisions are in line with international standards in this field, taking particular account of the key criteria set out in the United Nations Paris Principles, providing the Ombudsman with independence, autonomy from the government, pluralism, broad mandate based on universal principles of human rights, adequate investigation powers and appropriate resources.

The Government also adopted the Bill amending the Law on the Restriction of the Use of Tobacco Products that will enable the application of more rigorous measures which prohibit tobacco smoking in workplaces and other public spaces, and prescribes more stringent penalties for the persons who violate this ban.

In order to advance business environment and eliminate business barriers, the Government adopted the Bill on Enforcement and Security whose application will bring substantial changes such as simplification of court rulings’ enforcement, faster and more efficient execution and security process, relieve the courts and reduce the backlog of cases. Among other things, the new law prescribes the introduction of public enforcement officers into the Montenegrin legal system and setting up of an organisation for enforced collection.

As to the Serbian Government’s decision to ban wheat and flour export, the Government concluded that the supply of the Montenegrin market with these products will not be significantly reduced, as it will be able to provide, if necessary, the required quantities of wheat and flour from the nearby markets.