# Mining and mineral exploitation issues in the Balkans > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mining-and-mineral-exploitation-issues-in-the-balkans > Updated: 2026-08-24T09:53:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. The mining sector in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing significant operational and legal challenges. In Montenegro, the Petnjik lignite mine in Berane has remained inactive for six years despite government commitments to reactivate the facility. Once a major employer for up to 600 miners, the site has suffered from failed privatizations, equipment deterioration, and a lack of electricity since 2022. Simultaneously, legal and environmental scrutiny is increasing across the region. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, authorities banned coal exploitation by the company ‘Drvo export’ following court rulings regarding illegal works. In Montenegro, the Geological Institute has launched a review of mineral resource concessions in the Bijelo Polje municipality. This investigation, prompted by the NGO ‘Euromost’, aims to determine if local authorities properly followed legal jurisdictions regarding environmental impact assessments. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-24: Mining and mineral exploitation face legal scrutiny in Bosnia and Montenegro Authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro are reviewing or banning mineral and coal exploitation activities following legal challenges and environmental concerns regarding permit validity. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mining-and-mineral-exploitation-face-legal-scrutiny-in-bosnia-and-montenegro ### 2026-08-14: Berane lignite mine remains inactive despite government promises The Petnjik lignite mine in Berane, Montenegro, remains inactive despite government promises to reactivate the facility, causing economic harm to the northern region. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/berane-lignite-mine-remains-inactive-despite-government-promises --- Cite as: Mining and mineral exploitation issues in the Balkans. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mining-and-mineral-exploitation-issues-in-the-balkans