The concession process for Montenegrin airports Podgorica and Tivat has sparked significant controversy and political tensions. The tender has been questioned for its professionalism and transparency, with opposition parties calling for its halt due to possible irregularities. Two bidders, the Luxembourg-American company CAAP and the South Korean Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), passed the technical evaluation, but the commission initially rejected the Korean bid, leading to further criticism. The Montenegrin government and the tender commission are under pressure, with decisions being changed, including an extension of the evaluation deadline. The bidders’ plans differ: CAAP proposes larger investments and development of low-cost hubs, while IIAC does not have such intentions. The issue of airport privatization is crucial for the future of Montenegro’s air traffic, especially in the context of regional competition where many airports are already privately owned or under concession.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the political controversies and potential corruption surrounding the tender process. They highlight opposition demands to halt the concession due to suspicions of malpractice and stress the importance of transparency and protecting national assets. The narrative often questions the government’s handling and the influence of political parties on the process.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the tender process, including the technical evaluations and the competing bids. They focus on the procedural aspects, the differences in bidders’ plans, and the regional context of airport privatization. The coverage is balanced, noting both the government’s position and the opposition’s concerns without strong editorializing.
Right: Right-leaning media tend to emphasize the economic and strategic benefits of privatizing the airports, highlighting the potential for increased investments and modernization. They may downplay the controversies or frame them as typical political disputes. The narrative supports the idea that private management could enhance competitiveness and regional connectivity.