Montenegro’s Anti-Corruption Efforts Stalled Amid Political Unrest
May 2022 - Despite EU accession requirements, Montenegro’s anti-corruption efforts have stalled due to political instability and a lack of effective governance.
Understaffed Agency for Prevention of Corruption
The Agency for Prevention of Corruption is struggling to make a meaningful impact in combating corruption due to understaffing. Additionally, the legal framework governing corruption prevention requires review. However, the ongoing political crisis has brought all anti-corruption reforms to a halt, both in legislation and practical implementation.
Political Instability and Lack of Governance
Montenegro’s parliamentary system has improved transparency in its work, but the ruling majority frequently bypasses public consultation and uses fast-track procedures to pass legislation without meaningful input from citizens or opposition parties. This lack of effective governance has hindered efforts to combat corruption.
Impact on International Relations and Economy
The country’s international relations have been affected by its political instability. Montenegro’s good relations with neighboring countries are being strained due to unresolved border demarcations with Italy, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The economy has also suffered as a result of the crisis. Macroeconomic and fiscal stability have been strengthened in recent years, but the country’s high public debt and unemployment rates remain major challenges.
Challenges Facing Civil Society and Media
Civil society organizations are struggling due to a lack of guaranteed access to justice for victims of trafficking and a dearth of resources allocated to protect victims. The country’s witness protection program remains ineffective, and there is no comprehensive training provided to officials on victim identification and assistance. The media landscape in Montenegro has improved somewhat, with less political pressure being exerted on the press. However, independent media are almost non-existent, and the government’s influence over the media continues to be significant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Montenegro’s anti-corruption efforts have stalled due to political instability, and the country’s economy, civil society, and media landscape continue to face significant challenges. Efforts must be made to address these issues in order for Montenegro to move forward and achieve its EU accession goals.
Some key areas that require attention include:
- Strengthening the Agency for Prevention of Corruption with adequate resources and staff
- Reviewing and improving the legal framework governing corruption prevention
- Improving governance through increased transparency and public consultation
- Addressing unresolved border demarcations with neighboring countries
- Reducing public debt and unemployment rates to stabilize the economy
- Providing guaranteed access to justice for victims of trafficking and allocating sufficient resources to protect them
- Improving the effectiveness of the witness protection program and providing comprehensive training to officials on victim identification and assistance.