Jadran sailing ship dispute sparks identity mobilization in Montenegro

A dispute over the ownership and location of the sailing ship ‘Jadran’ has sparked identity-based mobilization and political tension in Montenegro. The vessel, built in 1933, is at the center of a claim by the Republic of Croatia, which seeks its return to the port of Split where it was stationed during the era of the former Yugoslavia.

In response, the NGO Miholjski zbor has organized a petition to ensure the ship remains Montenegrin property. The initiative has gathered thousands of signatures, including support from Stevan Katić, the Mayor of Herceg Novi, who described the ship as an inseparable symbol of the Boka Kotorska region.

Observers, including Miloš Perović from Alfa Centar, have warned that the issue is being transformed from a legal and state matter into an identity-driven campaign. Such mobilization could potentially strain diplomatic relations between Montenegro and Croatia as they navigate other open bilateral issues. Critics have accused the organizers of manipulating citizens, while the organizers maintain they are defending their rights to the vessel.