Montenegro must keep up with the progress on its reform path, particularly concerning its judicial system, freedom of expression, freedom of the media, the fight against corruption and organized crime, as well as public administration, suggests the draft document that’s going to be presented at the meeting of the General Affairs Council on 16 December 2025 in Brussels.
Radio Free Europe has reported that the Council welcomed Montenegro’s progress on the road to the EU with 33 negotiation chapters opened and 12 temporarily closed, as the draft document says.
It’s also said that Montenegro is encouraged to further improve the implementation of the final benchmarks, especially chapters on the rule of law (chapters 23 and 24).
The document states that the EU expects Montenegro to generally strengthen its administrative capacities, noting that the number of final court rulings in high-level corruption cases remains low. It highlights the need for Montenegro to improve its track record on investigations and prosecutions in cases of high-level corruption and organized crime.
In addition, progress has been detected in asylum policy and migration management, while there’s a need to fully align national legislation with the EU’s visa policies.
When it comes to economic policy, the Council encourages Montenegro to implement reforms, reduce public debt and continue efforts to reinforce financial governance and transparency.
