Montenegro proposes expanded powers for Ombudsman

The Government of Montenegro has submitted a draft Law on the Protection of Human Rights and Freedoms to the Assembly, which proposes expanding the powers of the Ombudsman. Under the new legislation, the Ombudsman would be authorized to conduct unannounced visits to locations where persons are deprived of their liberty.

The proposal also includes specific protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups, including children, women, and persons with disabilities. Neda Radović, Executive Director of the non-governmental organization Sistem, welcomed the initiative, noting that increased institutional mechanisms and preventive measures are essential for effective human rights protection in practice.