Montenegro’s Security Sector Strengthens Amid EU Membership Aspirations

Montenegro’s drive towards European Union (EU) membership is gaining momentum, as highlighted by the latest report from the European Commission, which is described as the most positive to date. According to Momčilo Leković, a member of the Democratic Party of Montenegro, this report confirms the government’s effective results and solid backing from Brussels in the country’s reform efforts. He emphasized that the anticipated closure of negotiation chapters by the year’s end is achievable if reforms are properly implemented and institutionalized.

Leković noted that if Montenegro successfully closes the proposed five or six negotiation chapters by December 2023, it would send a powerful signal that the country is maintaining a strong pace in its EU accession process. He specifically highlighted the importance of strengthening the security sector, which he believes is foundational to all reforms.

In the recently released 2025 Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) report, Montenegro ranks 64th out of 193 countries worldwide and 10th in Europe on the Organized Crime Index. This marks a ten-place improvement globally and a five-place rise within Europe compared to the previous cycle. Leković pointed out that this progress indicates enhanced effectiveness in combating organized crime, corruption, and money laundering, reflecting well on the performance of security institutions.

This advancement is significant. It demonstrates that Montenegro’s security system is better equipped to respond to serious threats, positively impacting the country’s international image and its negotiating process with the EU. Furthermore, it creates an opportunity for citizens to have greater trust in the institutions tasked with safeguarding the integrity of the state.

The processes of vetting, strengthening professional and independent institutions, and appointing impartial judges to the highest judicial bodies are crucial, according to Leković. He stressed the importance of expediting the selection of judges for the Constitutional Court, urging parliament to ensure that institutional procedures are completed efficiently rather than being delayed.

“I believe this task will be completed soon, signaling to citizens that the rule of law is indeed a priority,” Leković remarked.

Despite the ambitious goals, he remains optimistic that reforms in chapters 23 and 24 will be completed within the established timelines. He pointed out that achieving closure on these chapters requires tangible results in the judiciary, including verdicts in high-level corruption cases, transparent processes, and consistent application of laws. Only then can citizens see that institutions are functioning as intended rather than merely existing on paper. He considers advancements in the security sector to be a roadmap for progress in other areas, particularly in justice.

Regarding Chapter 27, which pertains to environmental protection, Leković noted that Montenegro has already demonstrated its capacity to develop strategic documents and activate international financial support. He highlighted the significance of real projects, such as wastewater treatment systems, as indicators of the country’s ability to turn plans into results. Successful implementation of these projects will enhance confidence in Montenegro’s capability to meet EU standards, even in challenging areas.

Leković also expressed optimism that the issue surrounding the location of the wastewater treatment system in Botun, near Podgorica, will be resolved satisfactorily for all parties involved.

“Montenegro is in a genuinely positive position today, better than ever. Supported by the EU and making concrete progress in the security sector, along with clearly defined reform processes, the closure of negotiations and entry into the EU by 2028 is becoming increasingly likely,” he concluded.