A workshop held in Podgorica focused on the implementation of the Environmental Damage Liability Law in Montenegro, aligned with the EU Directive 2004/35/EC. Discussions covered legal requirements, procedures, rights and obligations of operators, and public involvement in cases of significant environmental damage. The polluter pays principle was emphasized, where the operator is responsible for the costs of remediation. Challenges in law application, exceptions, and complementary legal instruments for protecting natural values were also discussed. The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Ecology and an EU-funded project, led by expert Tanja Pucelj-Vidović.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the importance of environmental protection, strict enforcement of the polluter pays principle, and the need for public participation in environmental decision-making. They highlight the role of EU integration in improving environmental standards and advocate for strong institutional capacity to ensure accountability of polluters.
Center: Center-leaning sources focus on the legal and procedural aspects of implementing the environmental liability law, stressing the alignment with EU directives and the practical challenges in enforcement. They present a balanced view on the responsibilities of operators and the role of government institutions in remediation efforts.
Right: Right-leaning sources may emphasize the economic implications of the polluter pays principle, cautioning against excessive regulatory burdens on businesses. They might highlight the need for clear legal frameworks to avoid overregulation and stress the importance of balancing environmental protection with economic development.
