University of Montenegro rector elections face scrutiny over lack of competition

An analysis by the Center for Civic Education (CGO) reveals a long-standing lack of competition in rector elections at the University of Montenegro (UCG). Over the past 20 years, competitive elections involving multiple candidates occurred only in 2008 and 2014. In the remaining six completed election cycles, only one candidate was present.

Currently, Irena Orović is the sole candidate for the rector position, provided no other applications arrive by mail. This follows the withdrawal of Veselin Mićanović, who declined to participate in a process he characterized as being designed to ensure a specific outcome. The current rector, Vladimir Božović, was also the sole candidate in both of his previous election cycles.

The accelerated election procedure has raised concerns regarding potential changes to higher education regulations. Critics and the CGO have questioned whether the timing is intended to finalize the election before legislative changes could decentralize the selection process. The CGO has called for a transparent procedure with clear criteria and genuine competition to ensure the university remains a center for critical thought and pluralism.