Council of Europe Reveals Concerns Over Detention Conditions in Montenegro

The Council of Europe has publicly released preliminary observations regarding the treatment of detainees in Montenegro. Following a visit from November 19 to 27, 2022, the Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) found significant issues related to the conditions under which individuals are held in various detention facilities across the country.

During its assessment, the CPT investigated the treatment and living conditions of detainees in prisons, juvenile detention centers, and psychiatric hospitals. The findings indicate a troubling environment for those incarcerated, with particular criticism directed at the conditions faced by individuals in custody. Detainees often endure poor treatment and live in unacceptable conditions, with many confined to their cells for up to 23 hours daily. In some cases, individuals have access to as little as 2.5 square meters of living space.

The report highlights systemic issues in Montenegro’s detention practices, noting that approximately 56% of the prison population consists of pre-trial detainees. The CPT delegation spoke with numerous individuals who had spent over six years in investigative detention, raising concerns about the prolonged periods without trial and the implications for their rights.

In addition to the confinement conditions, strict limitations imposed on detainees reduce their contact with the outside world. Access to meaningful activities or work is minimal, and essential items necessary for a dignified existence—such as toilet paper, hygiene products, and bedding—are not consistently provided by authorities. As a result, many inmates rely on family members for these basic necessities. Despite repeated recommendations from the CPT over the years, measures to improve the challenging conditions of detainees have not been implemented.

The situation in the Dobrota Psychiatric Hospital has not improved since the CPT’s last visit in 2017. Overcrowding remains a critical issue, with a significant number of patients sleeping on mattresses on the floor. The hospital continues to accommodate various patient categories, including forensic patients and children, despite the establishment of a dedicated children’s psychiatric ward at the Clinical Center of Montenegro.

In the realm of social care homes, the CPT noted some improvements since its last visit, particularly at the Koman Bridge Institution. However, concerns persist regarding the insufficient number of caregivers and the challenges faced when working with agitated residents, especially those with severe autism spectrum disorders, who require specialized skills and training.

On January 22, 2026, Montenegrin authorities responded to various inquiries raised by the CPT delegation during their visit. The complete report detailing the findings from the November 2022 visit will be submitted to the Montenegrin government in July 2026.

The preliminary observations and the government’s response were released with the consent of Montenegrin authorities, indicating a degree of transparency in addressing these critical issues regarding the treatment of detainees and patients in the country.