Montenegro advances EU accession as key chapters close and 2027 elections loom

Montenegro is moving forward in its EU accession process while preparing for parliamentary elections in 2027, which will serve as a de facto referendum on the country's reform agenda and its readiness for EU membership. Analysts at a recent forum highlighted a gap between the optimistic external perception of Montenegro’s progress and persistent domestic challenges in the rule of law, electoral legislation and political accountability.

At an intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg, Montenegro secured the temporary closure of negotiation chapters 2 – free movement of workers – and 28 – consumer protection and public health. Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević said the closures confirm the continuity of the European pathway and demonstrate that reforms are yielding concrete results. She noted that the dynamic of the accession process remains on schedule and that the government aims to close additional chapters by the end of the year, emphasizing the tangible benefits for citizens in terms of labour rights, consumer safety and health standards.

The combined political debate and negotiation milestones underscore the significance of the upcoming 2027 elections, which will test whether Montenegro can consolidate its democratic institutions and meet the final conditions for EU membership.