Montenegro regional leader in reform implementation: New €44.2 million from the EU Growth Plan confirms the country’s progress

The European Commission has approved the disbursement of the third tranche of funds under the EU Growth Plan for Montenegro in the total amount of EUR 44.2 million, once again confirming the European Union's confidence in Montenegro's reform process and the results achieved on its European path.

Of the total amount, EUR 20.6 million will be paid directly into the state budget, while EUR 23.6 million is intended for infrastructure projects through the Western Balkans Investment Framework. These funds will contribute to the further development of key infrastructure and stimulate economic growth.

Montenegro achieved the best result among the beneficiaries of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans in terms of the level of implementation of reform steps and the utilisation of available funds.

The approved funding is the result of concrete reform activities implemented across several sectors. Significant progress has been achieved in improving the business environment through more efficient removal of business barriers and better cadastral management. At the same time, investments in energy efficiency have continued through the renovation of buildings and the modernisation of public lighting systems.

Progress has also been recorded in the field of human rights protection, with a reduction in the number of complaints submitted to the Ombudsman, as well as a decrease in incidents reported by LGBTIQ civil society organisations.

In the field of science and innovation, the number of funded actors within the National Research and Innovation System increased by 50 per cent, while results were further improved through Montenegro's stronger positioning in statistical reporting on science and innovation.

An important breakthrough was also achieved in the digitalisation of public administration: all 57 electronic services planned for 2025 were successfully implemented, fully meeting the established target. In addition, a new model for career management and counselling was adopted through the Career Guidance and Counselling Strategy for the period 2025-2030.

In the area of social policy, the activation system for beneficiaries of social assistance was improved through amendments to the Law on Social and Child Protection, enabling an easier transition of beneficiaries into the labour market and greater economic independence.

With regard to the rule of law, a 20 per cent increase was achieved in filling positions within courts responsible for combating corruption. Furthermore, integrity mechanisms were strengthened through the introduction of mandatory annual asset and conflict-of-interest declarations for inspectors, under the supervision of the Agency for Prevention of Corruption.

These results confirm Montenegro's strong commitment to implementing reforms in the areas of the economy, digital and green transition, human capital development, as well as strengthening the rule of law and fundamental rights.

The continued successful implementation of the Reform Agenda represents an important step towards further progress in the EU accession process and securing additional financial support for the country's development.