Montenegro Aims to Strengthen Worker Protections Ahead of Labor Day

Montenegro’s Minister of Labor and Social Welfare, Naida Nišić, announced plans to enhance worker protections and combat workplace harassment as the country prepares for International Labor Day. Speaking at a recent panel titled “Dignified Work: Challenges and Perspectives in Montenegro,” Nišić emphasized that dignified labor involves not only fair wages but also clear working conditions and robust protections enforced by the Labor Inspectorate.

During the panel, it was highlighted that Montenegro has made progress in labor rights, yet significant challenges remain. Nišić noted that while the minimum wage has increased from €450 to €600 and then to €800, the essence of dignified work extends beyond salary levels. “Dignified work is not measured solely by earnings but also by predictable and clear working conditions,” she stated.

Legislative Alignments and Future Changes

Nišić also pointed out that numerous legislative solutions related to labor and social policy are currently under review by the European Commission. The adoption of these measures is expected to align Montenegro’s laws with EU standards, thus enhancing employee protections. Furthermore, she announced upcoming amendments to the Law on Protection from Workplace Harassment, which aims to improve safeguards against mobbing.

“We will establish a working group and collaborate with partners to ensure that all employees in Montenegro are protected from mobbing and other forms of harassment,” Nišić declared. “I am confident that, through joint efforts, we will build a system that ensures dignified work and a better future for all citizens of Montenegro.”

The head of cooperation at the EU Delegation in Montenegro, Bernard Brunet, expressed optimism regarding Montenegro’s potential EU membership by 2028. “This is an ambitious yet achievable goal. It is crucial for everyone to remain committed to this process,” he said, highlighting that EU membership brings not only obligations but also substantial benefits, including economic, social, and institutional advancements.

Brunet emphasized the importance of aligning legislation with EU laws, stating, “The process of harmonizing labor legislation is demanding but essential, and we are here to provide Montenegro with all necessary support.” He underscored that the EU is not merely a political and economic project but also a social one, with fundamental rights clearly defined in EU treaties.

Addressing Complaints and Social Dialogue

Tatjana Radović-Todorović, Deputy Ombudsperson for Human Rights and Freedoms in Montenegro, stressed that the right to work is a fundamental human right. She revealed that between 30% and 40% of complaints received pertain to violations of labor rights. “Montenegro, like many countries in the region and Europe, faces numerous challenges, especially regarding insecure forms of work,” Radović-Todorović noted, particularly highlighting the plight of young people, women, persons with disabilities, and migrant workers.

She indicated that many young individuals begin their careers under unstable contracts, low wages, or volunteer positions, which often drives them to leave Montenegro. Older individuals frequently encounter age-based discrimination. Radović-Todorović also mentioned the frequent complaints regarding stress, pressure, and mobbing in the workplace.

The anticipated amendments to the Law on Protection from Workplace Harassment are welcomed, as proving mobbing in practice can be exceptionally challenging, with lengthy legal proceedings that often favor employers. “It is essential to strengthen social dialogue as the foundation of dignified work,” she concluded.

The European Social Charter mandates that states ensure effective dialogue between employers and unions, a point that the Ombudsperson’s reports regularly emphasize. As Montenegro navigates these challenges, the commitment to improving labor rights and protections will be crucial for its societal and economic development.