Montenegro continues preparations to close the remaining stages of its European Union accession negotiations, with 15 negotiating chapters still open before the process can be completed. The Government and Parliament are continuing work during the summer period, with Chapter 14 on transport policy and Chapter 31 on foreign, security and defence policy identified as the next technically prepared areas.
Social Policy and Employment Benchmarks Completed
Montenegrin authorities have reported the completion of closing benchmarks under Chapter 19 on social policy and employment. The benchmarks were discussed with representatives of the EU Delegation, the Union of Employers, the Union of Free Trade Unions and the Confederation of Trade Unions. The chapter covers areas relevant to businesses, including labour legislation, occupational health and safety, social dialogue and employment compliance.
Environmental Requirements Require Further Investment
The environment chapter represents one of the more investment-intensive areas of the accession process. Meeting the requirements will require stronger administrative capacity and investment in areas including waste management, wastewater treatment, industrial emissions control, nature protection and environmental monitoring. These obligations are expected to affect future permitting procedures, municipal financing activities and the development of projects in sectors including tourism, infrastructure and energy.
EU Alignment Influences Investment Standards
Montenegro’s current investment activities are being shaped by external requirements linked to both financing and EU integration. Financing from institutions such as IFC and EBRD includes environmental and operational requirements, while the EU accession process introduces similar standards through domestic regulatory alignment.
Projects including Porto Montenegro, the national road-management platform and Budva’s municipal infrastructure works are subject to increasing requirements related to operational performance, environmental standards and procurement procedures.
