Rule of law, fight against corruption and judicial reforms remain key priorities for Montenegro and the European Commission

The rule of law serves as the foundation for Montenegro’s further progress in accession negotiations, economic growth, and improving citizens’ quality of life. For this reason, it remains a top priority of the Government, stated Prime Minister Milojko Spajić during a meeting with the European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and Rule of Law, Michael McGrath.

Commissioner McGrath commended Montenegro’s progress in Chapters 23 and 24 and its receiving of IBAR but emphasized the need for continued intensive work on reforms.

Rule of law is a priority for us. We celebrated the receiving of IBAR, but I am confident it will not be the last time we celebrate progress in this area. We aim to seize this momentum and continue working in this direction. I am confident we will succeed because there is strong political will to achieve this, highlighted Prime Minister Spajić.

In this context, both sides acknowledged the significant progress made by Montenegro’s prosecution service. However, they agreed that further reforms in the judiciary are essential for more effective combat against criminal organizations. The European Commission and Commissioner McGrath will support Montenegro in these efforts, alongside joint initiatives to address corruption.

The meeting also addressed the current situation in the Constitutional Court.

At the beginning of the discussion, Commissioner McGrath expressed his condolences regarding the recent tragedy in Cetinje.