The Velje Brdo project could be a historic opportunity to address Montenegro’s housing crisis, but only if it prioritizes citizens who genuinely lack housing, according to the Association of Tenants of Montenegro.
The Association warned that ignoring tenants, failing to establish a tenant registry, and the absence of verified application data indicate a lack of commitment to a fair and transparent process. Over 11,000 applications highlight the severity of the housing shortage, but it remains unclear if the project will meet the real needs of those affected.
Positive aspects include a target price of around €1,000 per square meter and plans for 6,000 apartments by 2030, which could stabilize the market and provide security for many families. However, concerns remain over unrealistic move-in deadlines, unclear allocation criteria, and the risk of the promised price not being maintained.
The Association also highlighted the danger of inadequate infrastructure—schools, kindergartens, transport, and utilities—which could make the new settlement an urban problem zone. They stressed that the priority should be genuine tenants, not privileged applicants.
Additional concerns include the exclusive online application process, which only required basic personal information, raising questions about the legitimacy of applicants. Without a national tenant registry, the Association argues, fair housing policy cannot be ensured, and the project risks abuse and non-transparent allocation.
The Association called for:
- Transparent allocation criteria prioritizing tenants and young families
- Public guarantee that prices remain at €1,000 per square meter
- Regular and transparent project reporting
- Parallel development of infrastructure
- Inclusion of the Association in advisory and oversight bodies
- Establishment of a national tenant registry to ensure social fairness in housing policy.
