Montenegrin Journalists Gain Insight During Brussels Study Visit

A recent study visit to Brussels has enhanced the understanding of European Union (EU) operations among Montenegrin journalists. Organized by the Ministry of European Affairs in collaboration with UNOPS and the EU4ME project, the visit aimed to equip journalists with insights into the EU’s institutional functioning and communication strategies.

The delegation included representatives from various media outlets, such as ND Vijesti, TV Niksic, TV Prva, and the public service RTCG. During their time in Brussels, the journalists engaged with key EU officials and explored the workings of essential institutions.

The visit commenced at the Mission of Montenegro to the EU, where discussions focused on the current stages of the accession negotiations and the role of the Mission in coordinating with EU institutions. Tijana Moraca, a strategic communication advisor with the European External Action Service, outlined how the EU communicates its policies and stressed the significance of accurate reporting on European issues.

In addition, the group toured the Press Centre of the General Secretariat of the Council of the EU, gaining insights into its operations and media resources. They also met with the team responsible for strategic communication regarding the Western Balkans and Turkey at the General Directorate for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations. Here, they discussed current priorities in the enlargement policy and cooperation between the EU and Montenegro.

The second day shifted focus to the European Parliament. Journalists met with media, foreign affairs, and audiovisual production departments, visited the plenary chamber, and explored the Parliament’s multimedia facilities. They learned about the Parliament’s functioning and the information sources available to the media.

The delegation subsequently met with Guillaume Mercier, spokesperson for the European Commission on enlargement and international partnerships, to discuss the communication of enlargement policies and the media’s role in informing the public. The study visit concluded with a dialogue with Marjan Sarac, the European Parliament’s rapporteur for Montenegro, who addressed priorities and expectations in the ongoing accession process.

Participants expressed that the visit provided invaluable insights into the workings of EU institutions and facilitated a deeper understanding of European policies. Bojan Đurišić from Pobjeda highlighted the unique opportunity to observe European processes firsthand, stating, “The exchange with Brussels officials broadened my knowledge, opened new contacts, and gave me a clearer picture of how European institutions operate.”

Ana Popivoda Milačić from TV Vijesti remarked on the opportunity to engage directly with institutional representatives, saying, “Journalists were able to ask questions and, through the tour, experience the spirit of the city while sharing experiences.”

This study visit was conducted under the “Journalists for the EU – Reporting on the EU Integration Process” program, aimed at strengthening professional, analytical, and responsible reporting on European integration and key EU policies.