Montenegro media strategy shows legislative progress but implementation gaps persist

Three years after the adoption of Montenegro’s 2023–2027 Media Strategy, the Center for Civic Education (CGO) reports that while legislative frameworks have largely been aligned with European Union standards, practical implementation remains stalled. Significant progress was noted in media literacy, with Montenegro rising to 26th place on the global index, and the adoption of new laws regarding media and audiovisual services.

However, CGO highlights critical failures in areas such as the independence of the Public Service Broadcaster (RTCG), the safety of journalists, and the socio-economic status of media workers. Challenges persist regarding the fight against hate speech and disinformation, and the National Council for Media Literacy has yet to be officially constituted.

Compounding these issues, the RTCG trade union (JRDS) has formally requested that the State Audit Institution (DRI) include the public broadcaster in its 2027 audit plan. The union alleges long-term legal violations by management, including issues with executive salaries, working hour records, and the failure to implement previous audit recommendations. The union cited various court rulings regarding management appointments and potential misuse of public funds as grounds for a comprehensive investigation.