Candidates Emerge for Montenegro’s Ombudsman Position

The search for Montenegro’s next Ombudsman is underway following President Jakov Milatović‘s announcement of a public call for nominations. The deadline for submissions is set for November 1, 2023. In the meantime, several candidates have already put their names forward, including current Ombudsman Sinisa Bjeković and Mirjana Pajković, the General Director of the Directorate for the Advancement and Protection of Human Rights and Freedoms.

While the President’s office has not disclosed the full list of candidates, sources indicate that Bjeković and Pajković are among the key figures vying for the position. According to the established procedure, the President will consult with academic and professional institutions, as well as non-governmental organizations focused on human rights, before making a recommendation to the Montenegro Parliament, which has the final say in the appointment.

Bjeković’s current term is set to expire in mid-December 2023. The selection process for the new Ombudsman must commence no later than 60 days before the end of his six-year term. Bjeković has expressed his willingness to accept another term if he is nominated, emphasizing his commitment to enhancing the institution’s role in protecting human rights.

In recent statements, Bjeković highlighted the positive evaluations from the European Commission, which have consistently noted progress in the institution’s work and the trust it has garnered from citizens. Reflecting on the Ombudsman’s 20-year anniversary celebration, he pointed out the significant historical context in which the institution was established, underscoring its dedication to fostering a civil society and ensuring equality in Montenegro.

“The long-standing evaluations from the European Commission have provided us with enormous motivation and impetus in our work,” Bjeković remarked. “Our approach is grounded in the need to bring government closer to citizens and to develop effective human rights protections while promoting good governance.”

Pajković confirmed her application for the Ombudsman position, stating that she has submitted recommendations from non-governmental organizations as well as a critical endorsement from the Ministry of Human and Minority Rights. She believes her selection would be beneficial, particularly as a woman in this role.

As a mother of a child with disabilities, Pajković has extensive experience in the legal field and has contributed to the judiciary’s functioning. She holds both a judicial and advocacy license, and her prior work in the Ministry of Human Rights is closely aligned with the Ombudsman’s responsibilities.

Pajković has numerous qualifications for this position, including her role as the chair of the working group drafting the law on the Ombudsman, her leadership in developing the law on legal recognition of gender identity based on self-determination, and her representation of the Ministry at various international human rights forums.

“I believe that my references and experiences uniquely position me for this role,” she stated. “My commitment to respecting and promoting human rights is evident in my lifestyle and approach to processes.”

According to the regulations, candidates for the Ombudsman position must be Montenegrin citizens, hold at least a level VII1 education qualification, and possess a minimum of 15 years of professional experience, including at least seven years in the field of human rights. Additionally, candidates must not have been convicted of a crime that would disqualify them from serving in this capacity and must maintain a high personal and professional reputation.

Before Bjeković, the Ombudsman was Šućko Baković, who held the position prior to the current officeholder. The nomination process is a critical step for Montenegro as it seeks to uphold human rights standards and foster public trust in its institutions.