Montenegro government accused of obstructing collective agreement

Vladimir Pavićević, an Executive Board member of the Union of Free Trade Unions of Montenegro (USSCG), has accused the government of obstructing the signing of the General Collective Agreement (OKU). Pavićević stated that while social partners, including unions and the Employers' Union, were ready to sign, the government previously cited a lack of funds to increase the coefficient calculation value from 90 to 100 euros.

The situation has been complicated by the government's introduction of the 'Euro model,' a proposal requiring significantly more funding for wage increases. This move has reportedly made the agreement unacceptable to employers, preventing their signatures. Pavićević expressed suspicion that this delay may have been intentional, suggesting the government could have signed the OKU before announcing the 'Euro model' to avoid employer animosity.

While unions welcome the potential for higher wages under the 'Euro model,' Pavićević warned of logical inconsistencies. He noted that the model could demotivate highly qualified workers and youth due to relatively similar pay scales across different qualification levels. There are also concerns regarding the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises under the new system.