Montenegro is the regional leader in implementing reforms: New 44.2 million euros from the EU Growth Plan confirms the country’s progress

The European Commission has approved the disbursement of the third tranche of funds from the EU Growth Plan for Montenegro in the total amount of 44.2 million euros, once again confirming the European Union’s confidence in the reform process and the results Montenegro is achieving on its European path - the Government of Montenegro announced.

Of the total amount, €20.6 million will be paid directly into the state budget, while €23.6 million is intended for infrastructure projects through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF).

- These funds will contribute to the further development of key infrastructure and encourage economic growth - the Government stated.

They added that Montenegro achieved the best result among the beneficiaries of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans in terms of fulfilling reform steps and drawing available funds.

- The approved funds are the result of concrete reform activities implemented across several areas. Significant progress has been achieved in improving the business environment through more efficient removal of business barriers and better cadastre management. At the same time, investments in energy efficiency have continued through the renovation of buildings and modernization of public lighting - the statement said.

Progress was also achieved in the area of human rights protection, where a reduction was recorded in the number of complaints submitted to the Ombudsman, as well as in incidents reported by LGBTIQ civil society organizations.

- In the field of science and innovation, the number of funded actors within the National Research and Innovation System increased by 50 percent, while results were further improved through Montenegro’s better positioning in statistical reporting on science and innovation - the Government of Montenegro said.

An important step forward was also made in the digitalization of public administration: all 57 planned electronic services for 2025 were successfully implemented, fully meeting the established target.

- A new career management and counseling model was also adopted through the Career Guidance and Counseling Strategy until 2030. In the field of social policy, the activation system for beneficiaries of financial support was improved through amendments to the Law on Social and Child Protection, enabling beneficiaries to transition more easily to the labor market and greater economic independence - the statement specified.

Regarding the rule of law, a 20 percent increase was achieved in filling positions in courts responsible for combating corruption.

- Integrity mechanisms were also improved through the introduction of mandatory annual declarations of assets and conflicts of interest 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 Government of Montenegro assessed.

They added that the continued successful implementation of the Reform Agenda represents an important step toward further progress in the process of accession to the European Union and securing additional financial support for the country’s development.