Montenegro advances anti‑corruption reforms as EU bodies assess progress

At the 103rd plenary session of GRECO in Strasbourg, Montenegro’s implementation of anti‑corruption recommendations was reviewed. The delegation, led by anti‑corruption agency director Kristina Braletić and including Deputy Prime Minister Momo Koprivica, highlighted that further adoption of key legislation – the Government Law, the anti‑corruption law and a whistle‑blower protection law – is needed to fully implement the remaining recommendations. GRECO also examined reports from other member states and discussed broader European anti‑corruption policies.

An EU Commission non‑paper notes continued progress in Montenegro on rule‑of‑law chapters 23 and 24, citing reforms in the judiciary, anti‑corruption measures, organized crime, border management, media freedom and fundamental rights. Positive steps include constitutional amendments proposed to remove immunity for the prime minister and ministers in corruption cases, the appointment of a new director of the Anti‑Corruption Agency after a prolonged stalemate, and ongoing implementation of the 2024‑2028 anti‑corruption strategy. The EU also points to delays in senior judicial appointments and insufficient staffing and financial independence of the anti‑corruption agency.