Montenegro Launches EU Academy to Foster European Dialogue

The President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, has initiated a new platform aimed at fostering dialogue on European integration and foreign policy, called the EU Academy. The inaugural event is set to feature former Foreign Ministers Igor Lukšić and Srđan Darmanović, who represented Montenegro on the international stage during the leadership of Mila Đukanović.

Despite their extensive experience, the presence of Lukšić and Darmanović raises concerns regarding the credibility of this initiative. During their tenure, Montenegro’s progress towards European integration stagnated significantly, and the reform processes were criticized as being more declarative than substantive. Their involvement in a project that purports to symbolize a “new course” in European policy thus appears contradictory.

Concerns Over Credibility and Intentions

The name “EU Academy” has drawn scrutiny, not only for its ambitious tone but also for the use of the “EU” prefix, which is typically reserved for programs and institutions formally affiliated with the European Union. This initiative lacks official European backing, leading many to view the title as a marketing strategy rather than a genuine endorsement of European legitimacy.

Politically, the EU Academy aligns with Milatović’s broader strategy to enhance his personal brand and engage with younger voters. Following the establishment of the Youth Initiatives Council, this platform seeks to create an impression of modern, open leadership through less formal formats. Nevertheless, the selection of speakers and the symbolism of the name suggest that the “President’s Academy” resembles a political public relations project more than a sincere contribution to the European dialogue in Montenegro.

As Montenegro navigates its path towards European integration, the effectiveness and authenticity of initiatives like the EU Academy will be closely monitored by both the public and political analysts. The challenge remains for Milatović to transform this platform from a potentially superficial exercise into a meaningful dialogue that could genuinely advance Montenegro’s European aspirations.