What changed
2026-08-23 19:19 UTC → 2026-08-25 15:09 UTC ·
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Montenegro has reported significant revenue from its economic citizenship program, which concluded in late 2022. By the end of July, the program had generated 427.2 million euros, with 251.2 million euros allocated to priority tourism development projects and 32.9 million euros directed toward the development of less developed local self-government units. While these figures highlight economic success, the government has faced criticism regarding its use of such growth. Critics argue that leadership has attempted to use Montenegro’s economic performance landscape is characterized by a robust construction boom and GDP growth to ‘deflect from political responsibilities rising real estate prices, contrasted against growing domestic financial strain and ethical concerns,’ suggesting that economic metrics should not serve as a substitute for transparency or political accountability. Recent data criticism. Data from Monstat indicates a sustained construction boom. In shows that in the second quarter of 2026, the value of construction works increased by 6.3 percent compared to the same period the previous year. This activity is accompanied by rising real estate prices; the growth includes both high-rise residential buildings and low-rise infrastructure like roads. Consequently, average price prices for new construction rose to reached 2,557 euros per square meter, a 4.6 percent increase from the first quarter of 2026. meter. Regional price variations remain significant. The disparities are stark: coastal region continues to be the most expensive, with areas average prices reaching 2,838 euros per square meter, while Podgorica averages 2,510 euros. In specific coastal areas such as Tivat, with Tivat seeing prices for properties under construction have risen climb to nearly 3,500 euros per square meter. Industry officials note that while demand remains high, euros. While foreign nationals drive coastal demand, domestic citizens dominate the Podgorica market. The sector faces challenges including continues to grapple with labor shortages and rising costs for fuel and materials. Despite these indicators of growth, the government faces scrutiny. Critics argue that leadership uses economic performance and GDP growth to ‘deflect from political responsibilities and ethical concerns,’ asserting that economic success does not provide ‘moral immunity’ regarding transparency or conflicts of interest. Furthermore, reports indicate significant economic hardship for the local population, with data suggesting that 70 percent of citizens cannot afford a seven-day seaside vacation. Critics suggest this inability to access domestic tourism highlights deep-seated poverty and systemic issues within the nation’s economic management.