Montenegro faces widespread population decline in 18 municipalities

Data from Monstat reveals a significant demographic decline across Montenegro, with 18 out of 25 municipalities reporting more residents leaving than arriving between January and June. The trend is particularly severe in the northern regions, where issues such as lack of paved roads, public transport, and healthcare contribute to the exodus of young people.

Pljevlja faces a critical crisis, recording a loss of 156 residents in just five months this year. This decline is driven by both migration and a negative natural increase, as deaths significantly outpace births. In Pljevlja, births have dropped six to seven times compared to the 1970s.

While the government cites general challenges like aging populations and low birth rates, critics argue that current policies and housing projects in cities like Podgorica fail to support the northern regions, potentially accelerating the migration of youth toward urban centers and abroad.