Serbian Orthodox Church jurisdiction faces scrutiny in Croatia and Montenegro

Discussions regarding the influence and legal status of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) continue in the Balkan region, specifically concerning its jurisdiction in Croatia and Montenegro.

In Croatia, critiques have been raised regarding media coverage of Patriarch Porfirije, with arguments suggesting that the church's historical and legal standing should be viewed through the lens of Croatian state succession. The discourse touches upon historical laws from the 17th and 19th centuries to define the rights of religious communities within the territory.

In Montenegro, tensions persist over the perceived extraterritoriality of the SPC. Critics argue the church operates as a ‘state within a state,’ citing a government agreement that limits security measures within church-owned properties without prior ecclesiastical approval. Concerns have also been raised regarding the use of religious sites to hide criminal elements or weapons, following incidents such as the 2007 confrontation at the Cetinje Monastery.