In Montenegro, it is necessary to reduce the high and continuously growing costs of employees in the public administration, which significantly impact business expenses and hinder the competitiveness of the economy, while the quality of services does not meet the expectations and needs of the business sector.
This is stated in the recommendations of the Employers’ Union of Montenegro (UPCG) in their position document – Business Agenda 2025, which identifies priority areas for reform to improve the business environment, growth, and competitiveness of enterprises.
“The Business Agenda 2025 emerged from the EESE report (Enabling Environment for Sustainable Enterprises), which the Union prepared in collaboration with the International Labour Organization. This document will be presented at the Business Agenda 2025 forum, organized by the Union on February 20, in celebration of the International Day of Social Justice, with the support of the International Labour Organization,” the Union stated in a press release.
When it comes to improving the efficiency of public administration, the recommendations from the Business Agenda 2025 stress that Montenegro needs to reduce the number of employees in the public administration to improve efficiency, given that it is a small and dynamic economy.
Furthermore, considering the financial stability of public resources, it is necessary to reduce employee costs, which are currently very high and increasing year by year.
“As a result, business costs in Montenegro are higher, while the quality of public administration services for the economy is not at an adequate level. It is essential to ensure a continuous learning process by adapting policies to changing circumstances and receiving feedback from stakeholders,” the statement added.
Regarding recommendations for improving the legal and regulatory framework, the Business Plan suggests that employers’ organizations should be involved in all stages of policy creation from the outset, based on evidence-based analyses.
“It is crucial to ensure a clear voice for employers in all policy solutions, from laws to strategies. Also, according to current legislation, the opinion of the Social Council is mandatory for all amendments, which is not currently the case. Therefore, enhancing transparency and inclusiveness in the decision-making process should be a priority,” the recommendations conclude.
