The Tenants Association is demanding that the Capital City allocate one million euros in subsidies for tenant families, of which there are over 15,000 in the capital. Rising housing costs are severely affecting the quality of life for many citizens, and providing support to the most vulnerable must be a priority, the association stated.
The association added that subsidies should not be distributed based on the current model of fixed allocations but rather according to the actual social needs of families.
“Not all tenants are in the same situation – some are on the brink of survival, while others have more stable incomes. Therefore, we insist on a fairer distribution of funds so that help reaches those who truly need it. To ensure transparency in the distribution of subsidies, the Tenants Association demands to be part of the commission that will decide how they are allocated. We believe this is the only way to prevent potential abuse and ensure fairness in the process,” the statement reads.
They also rejected the notion that a lease agreement should be the sole condition for subsidies, as such agreements are not signed in over 88% of cases.
“Tenants are not to blame for this – the responsibility lies with the state, which has failed to regulate this area for decades and has not taken concrete steps in recent years to address it. It is unfair for citizens to suffer due to the inefficiency of the system. In addition to advocating for a fairer distribution of subsidies, the Tenants Association is working independently to create a Tenants Register, without any help from the state, even though the correctness of our actions is being confirmed every day. We are aware that this is the only way tenants can be recognized and protected in this country, and we have started this initiative completely on our own, without any funding but with a strong desire and determination to complete the Register,” the statement continues.
This time, tenants will not allow the Capital City’s administration to “simply process” the issue, as they believe it would once again demonstrate discrimination against citizens without a roof over their heads.
“If our request is not seriously considered, our response will be clear – PROTESTS! We will no longer passively watch as our problems are pushed aside. We will fight for our rights on the streets if that is the only way to make ourselves heard,” the statement warns.
They also expressed hope that the Secretariat for Social Welfare will finally respond to their numerous emails, which requested exactly this.
“Additionally, we asked for a meeting regarding the issues with the allocation of social housing in Podgorica, where there were serious irregularities. This was pointed out by former mayor Olivera Injac, as well as many others, and we expect this issue to no longer be ignored. We find it unacceptable for institutions that should be dedicated to solving social issues to ignore the voices of citizens who are in dire need,” they added.
At the same time, they praised the President of the Podgorica Assembly, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, who, according to them, showed responsibility and seriousness by responding to their requests and organizing a meeting to reiterate their positions and expectations.
“We expect other relevant institutions to show the same level of dedication and responsibility toward the tenant population. We call on the authorities to urgently review these demands and ensure a fair and transparent distribution of subsidies to provide the necessary support to those who need it most. We also expect the state to recognize the importance of creating a Tenants Register and provide support for this process, as only through clear documentation and systemic regulation can we ensure that tenants receive the status and protection they deserve,” the statement concludes.