Montenegrin unions demand conclusion of new collective agreement

The Union of Free Trade Unions of Montenegro (USSCG) and the Alliance of Trade Unions (SSCG) have called on the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Dialogue and the Government to finalize a new General Collective Agreement (OKU) without further delay.

In a letter addressed to Minister Naida Nišić, the unions requested that the working group for the new agreement meet by the end of August to allow for final negotiations and conclusion by early September. The unions noted that the current collective agreement has not been in effect since April 30, and they expressed concern over the freezing of dialogue and the increasing disregard for basic employee rights.

Labor representatives argued that conditions for concluding negotiations have been met, citing positive tourism season results and budget indicators that exceed plans. They also pointed to Eurostat data showing Montenegro's minimum wage has reached or surpassed some regional neighbors, despite the rising cost of living and inflation affecting workers.