The draft European Parliament report notes that Montenegro has made some institutional progress on its EU path but stresses that corruption and organised crime remain present in parts of the economy and public administration. It calls for political stability and continued reforms, urging all institutions to keep EU accession as a shared national priority above party interests.
The report expresses concern over recent legislative changes, particularly amendments related to the Prosecutorial Council, the Law on Internal Affairs, and the Law on the National Security Agency (ANB). It highlights criticism from civil society and calls for transparent procedures and broader consultation with opposition parties, legal experts, and the European Commission.
A significant section is dedicated to foreign interference, with the European Parliament warning about growing hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining Montenegro’s democratic institutions and Euro-Atlantic orientation. The report specifically points to the influence of China, Russia, and Serbia, while also cautioning against the political instrumentalisation of religious institutions.
The report underlines concern about the judiciary, particularly delays in appointing a Constitutional Court judge, which could affect the court’s full functionality. It also calls for stronger results in tackling corruption and organised crime and condemns political and public pressure on judges and prosecutors.
Regarding media freedom, the report raises concern about continued political influence over the public broadcaster RTCG and calls for greater transparency of media ownership and funding. It also criticises cases in which journalists, columnists, and civil society representatives have been questioned over criticism of public officials.
Finally, the report condemns hate speech, historical revisionism, and the glorification of war criminals. It expresses concern over ethnically based political narratives, including the concept of the “Serbian World”, arguing that such ideas are incompatible with good neighbourly relations and the EU accession process. The European Parliament reiterates that the future of the Western Balkans lies in European integration rather than competing geopolitical spheres of influence.
